Written by Colleen Tsoukalas (Treasure Seeker Colleen)
So many SMOC events and Ivan Sayers, Vancouver Costume Historian is always at the forefront, leading us back in history and showing us how the present is always influenced by what has gone on, not only here but all over the world. Now, if you're buying, what should you look for? What are good labels, good design, authentic vintage pieces, and where to look? Open all boxes, yes, look on the floor, yes, over your head, yes, at what someone has found, yes, know what you want? yes, be open to inspiration? definitely!
This time, very early on a Tuesday morning (the day when most thrift stores offer discounts) the first stop was at My Sister's Closet, on Seymour. This beautifully decorated store is a beacon for the Yaletown neighborhood. Profits go towards programs and resources for battered women and their families. Entirely run by volunteers, trained and mentored by Samantha, (BWSS) this treasure chest offers a range of well priced 'new to you' designer and donated clothing and accessories. Much of the jewelry, pottery, and cards are made by local artisans. The store offers many programs, job training, and opportunities for students, especially Fashion Design and Merchandising Program students, to see what fabulous outfits they can put together for photo shoots. My Sister's Closet also participates in ECO Fashion Week, showing us all how to recycle, upcycle and stage a fearlessly fabulous runway show every time. There is no end of possibilities for 'the little store that can' and also no end of treasures to be found.
Where are these beauties from?
There's nothing like an elegant shoe!
Samantha opens the door and wecolmes the shopping tour.
Friendly smiles, coffee and cakes await.
The lady in red, wearing a pheasant feather hat.
She wears it well!
Fancy pumps for a Venetian Ball or?...
Rings on her fingers. Great distraction at Bridge Games.
We aim to win!
Diana, Fashion Grad, Fashion Show organizer extraordinaire, Ivan Sayers, leader of the pack, curator, collector, teacher, and extreme treasure hunter just can't resist a look at one more pair of fabulous dress pumps. Next stop...(there were at least five more to go).. is a secret and one you'll have to ask the shoppers, who toured the city's best that day, to tell you more. Better yet, go on the next tour, yourself, and get your own hunt on.! How about a show of fine finds at yet another SMOC event. See you there!
Beautiful pottery, cards and jewelry, unique and hand crafted by local artisans
What did they find inside?
