Are you looking for that favorite sweater you had in the 1970s? Or the most comfortable pair of jeans you’ve ever worn? Look no further!
What started as a mission to find the best fitting jeans ever, to make me feel better about everything, turned into vintage clothes. weekend shopping. Not only did I find the brand and style of jeans I was looking for, but I came home with several other unexpected treasures.
The best places for vintage-clothing”>vintage are scattered throughout Des Moines, from downtown to the West suburbs Des Moines .Be sure to call ahead if you are planning on a later hour or on a Sunday, as some of these shops are closed and have reduced hours.
Atomic garage
127 5th St
West Des Moines, IA
(515)274-8787
Directions: Located in Valley Junction (old West Des Moines), take the 8th Street exit off I-235 , south on 8th St. to Railroad Ave., east on Railroad Ave. to 5th St.
This is the best place to find pants, shirts, shoes, jewelry, hats and shoes from those days gone by. Atomic Garage has a very knowledgeable staff that allows you to really shop, but is there to help with any questions you have. They are regularly stocked with clean, well-made vintage clothing, and all the accessories you need to display.
The store itself is designed to accommodate the shopkeeper, offering a huge array of items without being overstuffed. It is an easy and convenient thing to breed. “hands on” approach to the market, meaning you are allowed to handle any transaction. They also offer a large variety of sizes, so you don’t have to find a size 6 that you like. Everything from “elevator shoes” to the favorite Levi’s that mom gave years ago can be found in this vintage clothing stores.
Rose’s
400 Maple St. Valley Junction
West Des Moines, IA
(515)274-6458
You could easily spend an entire weekend perusing the shops of Valley Junction in West Des Moines. While you’re there, be sure to stop in Rose, especially if you’re looking for vintage clothing. Rose’s shop is full of clothing and accessories from days gone by.
Barbara’s Consignment Boutique
5601 Hickman Road
Des Moines, IA
(515) 274-1935
Directions: Take the 56th St. exit from I-235, north on 56th St. to University, west on University to Merle Hay Road, north on Merle Hay Rd. to Hickman Rd., east of Hickman Rd. block on the north side of Hickman Rd.
Barbara’s Consignment Boutique has always been around for as long as I can remember. It is a great shop for both vintage and selling clothes. Everything from casual fashion to prom dresses can be found here, and they are all great accessories. All items are clean, well displayed, and easily accessible. The great thing about Barbara is that you can find vintage style and dress up for today’s style. For example, prom dresses can be altered and added to, instead of spending hundreds of dollars. over a “one time” habit.
Dorothy Closet
1733 Grand Ave.
www.dorotheascloset.com
Directions: Take Martin Luther King Blvd. exit off I-235, south of MLK Blvd. to Grand Ave., east on Grand Ave. to 1733 Grand Ave.
Quality, truly beautiful, vintage clothing and apparel in Des Moines, simply for Dorothy’s room. Don’t you believe me? Just visit their website to get a full look at what you can experience. These are some of the classy, fine clothes and vintage dishes made in Des Moines. Although not a true bargain hunter, these dresses are closer to the $100 mark and up. At least everything you get for the benefits. If you’re looking for that Jackie Kennedy dress (or a close look), this is definitely the shop for you.
east side located on N. Ankeny Blvd.
If you’ve just been gifted with Goodwill Industries, take the time to get in and shop. This can be an incredible place to find vintage clothing and stores of all shapes and sizes. Whether you need a simple white shirt, a casual suit, or shoes from last year, this is where you’ll find it at a great price. The disadvantage is that these items should not be cleaned before sale, so they do an inspection (most people do a launder before donating). The best part is that there are so many stores available, and each one carries different items as people donate from different parts of the city. Almost all proceeds go to their customers (people with severe disabilities), so you can do well while you find your vintage stores.
If you still can’t find the right vintage clothing in the shops listed above, check out eBay. Many of the same stores on auction sites on offer the auction. Happy treasure hunting!
