How to Shop Vintage in Atlanta

Shopping for vintage clothing and accessories give women an opportunity to dress in a creative, environmentally friendly way. While the term "vintage" generally refers to clothing made between the 1920s and the 1980s, many people substitute vocabulary that mean similar things, such as "consignment" and "second-hand." Discovering vintage wardrobe pieces allows personal outfitting to be a mix of the new and the old, while distancing your style from everyone else. Atlanta is known for some of the best vintage shopping in the south because of its rich history, diverse population and presence of second-hand shops. Unique, gently-used clothing in Atlanta is yours to discover.

Instructions

1. 

   Head to Little Five Points. Also known as "Little Five," this eclectic part of Atlanta is the local goldmine for vintage shopping. Stop at the main attraction in Little Five first--Stefan's Vintage Clothing. Stefan's, the oldest vintage shop in Atlanta, is merchandised with high fashion appeal and is well-known for carrying high-end dresses, fur and cashmere coats, intricate hats, vintage cigarette cases and accessories, and even wedding gowns. Stefan's is often ranked the best vintage store in Atlanta by Citysearch online, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and other local media.

2. 

   Visit the other funky and classic vintage stores in Little Five Points. The Psycho Sisters is a best bet: this two-story shop carries items that range from designer-brand jeans such as True Religions to costume designs from the mid-20th century. The Clothing Warehouse houses racks of T-shirts (merchandised conveniently by color), diverse Western-style wear, sunglasses, Levi's jeans and more-casual vintage garments. For old school oddities, visit The Junkman's Daughter before you depart Little Five Points. This shop carries unusual Halloween garb, rock-and-roll attire, vinyl pants, 1980s wear and all things off-beat.

3. 

   Go to midtown's The Lucky Exchange. This popular vintage shop has quality resale garments in neatly stocked racks and is a local favorite for men's jackets and blazers and quirky feminine pieces. The shop's tidy atmosphere and boutique-style shopping is a must-see for vintage shoppers looking for quality product at a good price.

4. Check out the surrounding areas of Atlanta, such as Decatur and Sandy Springs. Some of Atlanta's best-loved vintage shops are on the outskirts of town. Visit Alexis's Suitcase on Roswell Road for brand-name items such as LAMB, Lithe and Nine West and boutique-style shopping. In Decatur, Frock of Ages is a local favorite for fine vintage evening gowns, jewelry and timeless dresses.

Tips & Warnings

• Use gentle care when wearing and cleaning vintage garments. Don't shop with a list. Ask about the store's return policy. Inspect garments before purchasing. Try on everything before buying.

Resources

• Stefan's Vintage Clothing
• The Lucky Exchange (Two Locations)
• The Clothing Warehouse
• The Junkman's Daughter