When I moved to Philadelphia for art school, like many college students, I didn’t have a ton of money. I waitressed weekends and shared an apartment; we ate tomato sauce and spaghetti or beans and rice pretty much every night, and bought vintage clothes because they were cheap and cool.
I still love cotton vintage summer dresses but have had a harder time finding decent ones in recent years.
So… I was delighted to discover Philly Vintage Bazaar while cruising down 4th street in Queen Village, also known as Fabric Row, on my bike. Enticed by the summer display of vintage beach chairs, a swinging 70’s pattern dress and a straw beach bag, I pulled over.
It’s a large space that goes way back and they have choice selections in men’s and women’s wear that are in great shape and nicely laundered, from leather jackets, to psychedelic ‘Atomic Pop Vintage,’ to boots and jeans. A lot of the summer stuff is fun and vibrant as are the accessories.
Everything is organized artfully and they have mid-century furniture and art as well as newer goods from small local businesses. Clearly a lot of care goes into selecting quality items for and arranging them in an appealing way. And the prices are reasonable. I found a lovely long thin cotton floral dress that is perfect for a picnic in the park or an evening soirée. Can’t wait to see the new finds next visit.
Find your way with 156 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"The Percy Street Project" is a public art installation in Philadelphia planned to span the entire 1300 block. Come at night to see 'The Electric Street'.
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"Nunu" is an Asian fusion bar/restaurant in Philadelphia. I love it best on a cold day when I'm craving a cocktail and warm snacks. Perfect for dates!
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My favorite thing about the "Philadelphia Insectarium & Butterfly Pavilion" by far is that it's very community-focused: I was toured by a local 4th grader!
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"Vault & Vine" in Philadelphia is a cafe inside a greenhouse. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius. I come here almost every weekend with my pug...
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"Suraya" just might be the best restaurant in Philadelphia right now. If you love the flavors of the Levant, that you're going to love it, too...
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"Spruce Street Harbor Park" is a true gift of the city of Philadelphia to its citizens, an ode to summer itself... I'll be there in a hammock!
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The "Navy Yard Food Truck Lineup" in Philadelphia appears every Tuesday & Thursday, come rain or shine! Great opportunity to try a few of them at once...
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"Interstate Draft House" is a Philadelphia neighborhood bar. I highly recommend ordering the Fishtown Tea cocktail there, similar to a Long Island Ice Tea.
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"Lloyd" Philadelphia is my bar of choice when I need a stiff scotch (80+ types) or a finely crafted cocktail. The style definitely makes me feel at home.
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Tuna Bar near the Ben Franklin Bridge is my go-to raw bar in the Old City in Philadelphia for exciting sushi rolls and Japanese-style appetizers!
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"Long in the Tooth Record Store" in Philadelphia is a family-owned business that reminds me of one of my favorite films, High Fidelity...
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Philadelphia’s Mural Arts has helped create literally thousands of gorgeous murals all over. I'm in love with the new abstract mural by Tim McFarlane...
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