Great Finds at The Toronto Vintage Clothing Show

By Sharilene Rowland

On Sunday, March 23, 2014, I attended my first Toronto Vintage Clothing Show at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.  The show was brought to Toronto by the organizers of the annual Vintage Clothing Show that has been running successfully in Ottawa for several years.

I arrived at 10:30 a.m. shortly after it had opened and by the large numbers of attendees already inside, it was obvious there are plenty of Vintage enthusiasts in Toronto. The large room was neatly filled with several vendors from all over Ontario and Quebec showcasing a large variety of clothing, jewelry and accessories from the late 1800s to the 1970s.

While walking around taking it all in, memories of years gone by came rushing back. There were things that reminded me of my grandmother, my mother and even myself from the 70s. So many memories made me smile and think, “Wow, I remember my grandmother wearing a beautiful dress just like this one!” The quality, the style, the colours were extraordinary and elegant.

The shoppers ranged in ages from 16 to 60, but I would say the majority of shoppers were in their 20s. Many attended the show dressed in vintage from head to toe including their clothing, accessories, hairstyles and makeup. I never saw so much red lipstick in one room. Everyone appeared to be having so much fun, caught up in the excitement of the hunt to find that one-of-a-kind vintage piece calling her name.

The qualities of the items were exquisite, stood the test of time and were being offered at attractive prices. This was definitely the place to come to purchase that outfit that no one else would likely have in their closet. I believe it is the uniqueness, the glitz and the glamour of vintage that attracts the younger generations. The older generations, such as myself, love all the memories of what fashion used to be, including its elegance and charm. Although our grandparents and parents used to show much less skin, the styles were still very feminine and sexy.

Some of the vendors I visited included:

By the number of shoppers who had turned up at this event, I would have to say that vintage has become more mainstream and it is here to stay.

The next Vintage Sale will be at Toronto’s Artscape Wychwood Barns this Sunday, March 30, 2014 at 601 Christie Street from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Admission is $8.

Take a step back in time; you never know what you may find!