Get a feel for funky, old-fashioned flair in Ottawa

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Monday, 26 November 2012 16:50

Visitors to Ottawa who missed last week's Vintage Clothing Show needn't fret. Many of the designers and collectors who displayed their unique clothing, accessories and trinkets dating back to the '40s all the way through the '70s are still in town to offer the same goods for those who travel to Ontario. Feeling funky? There are more than enough items for travellers to purchase, whether they're in the market for a one-of-a-kind Christmas gift or simply want to add to their already impressive collection of vintage items.

Savvy vendors
Among this year's exhibitors was Monika McLaughlin, who spoke with event promoters about her vintage line and where she collects her goods.

"I collect jewellery from around the globe," she said. "My offerings include Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, Jugendstil, Arts & Crafts and Art Deco jewellery. From my travels, I have brought back Russian, Scandinavian, Continental and English pieces, as well as more exotic items from Asia, North Africa and South America."

Got someone on that Christmas list who loves jewellery? A vintage piece carries so much more meaning than the run-of-the-mill necklace or pair of earrings.

Other vendors like Century Old, I Miss You Vintage and English Eccentrics also set up shop, giving visitors inspiration as to what's going on in the vintage scene in Ottawa.

Where to purchase vintage in Ottawa
Throughout the year, guests at Ottawa hotels can wander through the city's vintage stores for hours on end. Shops like Ragtime Vintage Clothing have rows upon rows of sweet finds that won't put a damper on anyone's budget. Depending on the garment, visitors can expect to spend a mere $20 for vintage fashion that may be worth hundreds of dollars more. From formal wear to quirky costumes, Ragtime Vintage Clothing has all sorts of items that are sure to please.

How to shop for vintage
There's more to shopping for vintage clothing than simply finding a perfectly sized shirt. Visitors should come prepared with enough cash to make all the purchases they will want. Additionally, because vintage fashion is typically fragile, shoppers should not expect that each item will be in mint condition - in fact, many of them have probably been worn numerous times. Because clothing sizes have changed over the years, it's always a good idea to try everything on, and be sure to wear form-fitting clothing because most changing rooms in vintage stores are communal.