Express & Star

Top 10 Vintage shops in the region

Our area is rich with history and vintage chic is the in thing, so why not delve into the past and grab an item you can bring up-to-date and into the 21st century.

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Second Hand Rose, Worcester

You're in safe hands at Second Hand Rose they've supplied vintage clothing to BBC costume designers, freelance costumiers, styled vintage fashion shows and vintage photo shoots, as well as private clients. They've had their own vintage book 'Wearable Vintage Fashion' published too. They stock a wide range of Vintage clothing (day and evening wear, women's and men's) from 1920s/30s to 1980s/90s and lots of accessories including bags, hats, shoes, belts, scarves and jewellery. There's new stock in every week and in addition to vintage classics, they hand pick 'on trend' items for fashion lovers sometimes even posting looks on their facebook page.

10 The Hopmarket, Worcester, WR1 1DL. 01905 23378. Visit secondhandroseworcester.co.uk

Berties, Craven Arms

Berties passion is the glamourous period of fashion from the 1930's through to the 60's. They source 'one-off' pieces in pristine condition that revive a time which was more stylish. If you're crafty and like to make your own vintage inspired garments, Berties stocks everything you need. They offer modern haberdashery pieces alongside a selection of vintage patterns, ribbons, buttons and trimmings to help you create a unique piece. In addition they have an abundance of accessories to complete your stylish ensemble. They also hold a small archive of select pieces available for hire to professional stylists.

14 Market Street, Craven Arms, Shropshire, SY7 9NW. 07532 004313. Visit berties-vintage.co.uk

Decades Vintage Boutique, Lichfield

Set in a grade two listed, three storey building Decades has the perfect backdrop for giving a great vintage retail experience. Put your feet up on a recliner or rocking chair and read an original magazine from the era (ranging from the 1920s-80s), while being amused by lots of trivia. Why not try out the vinyl on sale on the testing turntable letting your memory be taken back in time as you listen. Pre-loved clothes and accessories are also available from all of your favourite eras. They now even stock plus sizes.

Proprietor Francesca White and marketing manager Josh Beeson at Darlington Vintage, Darlington Street, Wolverhampton

Darlington Vintage, Wolverhampton

Darlington Vintage sells a range of clothing, shoes, handbags and bits of jewellery among other items such as hats and gloves and even vintage pieces for men. They have certain pieces of interest on their online shop, where you can also become a member to take advantage of offers. With an eye-catching frontage and jazzy sounds of music from the past you'll be transported to a different era.

17 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 4HW. Visit www.darlingtonvintage.com

Sue Ryder Vintage, Kings Heath

They aren't just a charity shop that offer high street fashion at cut prices they stock a range of vintage and retro garments, shoes and collectibles. From turn of the century, through to the 50s and up to the 80s, Sue Ryder teams are trained to spot unique items that really will make you stand out in the fashion parade of life. If you're looking for something a bit different, going to a fancy dress, or are a serious collector check out what they've got. The closest store is in Brum, you never know you might grab a bargain, they even have an eBay store to shop from the comfort of your own home. It's fashion you can feel good about cause you know the money is going to a good cause.

143 High Street, Birmingham, B14 6DG. 0121 4432180. Visit www.sueryder.org/Shop-with-us/High-Street-shopping/Specialist-shops/Vintage-and-Retro

Violet Rose Vintage, Shrewsbury

With an eclectic mix of vintage and retro clothing and accessories for both ladies and gents including pretty 1940?s glamour, 50?s dresses, 70?s psychedelia , faux fur, cosy knitwear, leather jackets, tweed, denim, sparkly jewellery, vintage bridal, handmade gifts, accessories for the home & vintage inspired clothing, there's not much they don't stock. The staff are all professionals studying in fashion, textiles and the history of costume and are on hand if you need any help. There are 5 floors in a quirky grade 2 listed building, described by some customers as being "a rabbit warren", "like a tardis", and "a wonderland"! They even offer 10% discount for students.

10a St John's Hill, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY1 1JD. 01743 232831. Visit www.violetrosevintage.com

Mr Bird's Emporium, Digbeth

Birmingham's first vintage concept store is due to open 13 October called Mr Bird's Emporium. The main store will offer a twist on the traditional department store set up. They will trade five days a week throughout the year, and will house 13 permanent traders within one open plan shop space all either Fashion/Vintage traders or talented creative's. They also are planning events such as a student lock-in which is scheduled for 24 October boasting DJs, discounts and drinks. So one to look out for and if you're interested in being a part of this new venture drop them a line.

The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Birmingham, B9 4AA. 0121 2400000. Visit mrbirdsemporium.co.uk

The Curio Shop, Walsall

The Curio Shop has a fantastic reputation as one of Walsall's best antique shops, gifts shops and house clearance specialists, having been established in the area for over 40 years. The shop has appeared on Channel 4's 'Kirsty's Homemade Home' and supplies props to local theatres including The Lichfield Garrick Theatre. It is the perfect place to grab an unusual gift or find a piece for the home bursting with character. The Curio Shop is a goldmine for all things quirky, kitsch, retro and a little bit different.

Organiser Samantha Bromley, Petticoat Vintage co-owner Sara Bracknall and organiser Miesha Johnson

Petticoat Vintage, Wolverhampton

They say that fashion is more than just clothing it is a statement of individuality, it says who you are – is Petticoat Vintage's philosophy. Petticoat are all about the look and definitely show this on their website merging a different kind of navigation and 360 photos of the store in a great way. Hidden away in a small street in Wolverhampton it's one to check out even the shop is kitted out, with vinyl on the walls and retro furnishings.

11 King Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1ST. 01902 427861. Visit petticoatvintage.co.uk

Urban Village, Custard Factory

Urban Village live and work retro. As well as selling vintage get up, staff dress in the clothes they sell, ride scooters, drive old cars, plus they're an eco-friendly company. They sell original vintage clothing and accessories from the 60s and 70s. They sell an equal amount of men's and women's clothing which is all A graded, cleaned and ready to wear. In addition to their Birmingham based store they sell on their eBay store and offer a personal shopper service.

The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Birmingham, B9 4AA. 0121 2247367. Visit www.urban-village.co.uk

Jody Ball

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