9 Vintage + Retro Stores For Fab Finds In The Illawarra
Oh, we adore the thrill that comes with a good vintage shopping experience!
Finding that one-off piece, whether it be a super-fly retro coat or the perfect antique vase to adorn your coffee table, we know how fun vintage and retro shopping can be.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of ten of our favourite places to get your shop on.
And if you get bitten by the bargain treasure hunt bug like we do and you’re looking for even more locations for that retail hit, we’ve got a whole guide you can check out to keep you going!
This place is funky with a capital F.
Not only can you get your hands on some uber-cool vintage pieces, including clothes, accessories and homewares, but they’ve also got you covered for one-of-a-kind musical instruments, crystals, incense and even skateboards!
The shop is conveniently located on Globe Lane in Wollongong meaning not only are you spoilt for choice for things to look at inside, you’ll also be spoilt for places to eat and drink after you’re done as well. Nice!
This place is beauuuutiful.
Every time we pop inside, we just want to take it all home with us. Owner, Dann considers herself a retroholic and we totally get it! The level of thoughtful curation she places in every corner will guarantee you’ll come away with something to make you smile for years to come.
The store is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, the heritage-listed terrace houses in Kiama are soooo adorbs!!!
Could there be anything more charming than shopping inside one for antiques and collectables? We think not.
Take your time browsing through all the quirky, gorgeous, one-of-a-kind things inside but just make sure to bring a keen eye because there is lots – and we mean lots – to look at.
Hidden gem alert! More knick- knacks than you could poke a stick at, authentic antique pieces and super-friendly staff to boot. Yes please!
This is the kind of place you could come back to time and time again to hear yourself saying “wow I didn’t see that last time!” or “oooo come check this out”. If you’re a fan of true ‘antique store style’ then this is the spot for you!
There’s something so satisfying about a well-done upcycled piece and these guys know that.
Pop in here to find transformed pieces that will not only make your home look good but also help you feel better about the environment because after all reuse>replace.
They also stock lots of handmade items from local producers and furniture paint if you want to have a go at upcycling your own furniture at home. DIY is so hot right now!
Did you really think we were going to give you a list like this and not include a store just for books? No Way!
Pre-loved books are basically a love language and we’ve got all of you bibliophiles covered.
Jennie’s Book Nook has a huge range of second-hand and brand-new books at very affordable prices. Bring your very biggest book bag for all the wonderful reads you’ll walk away with.
We’re big fans of all the amazing work the guys at Green Connect do so naturally we’re gonna love their op-shop. They have a huge selection of second-hand goodies at proper affordable prices and knowing that everytime you shop here you’re helping the local community, well that’s just guaranteed to put a smile on your dial, isn’t it?
Founded by couple James and Lavinia, Wollongong locals who are passionate about all things vintage, retro and bygone. In-store you can find the freshest fits, the grooviest homewares and almost anything in between.
Don’t have time to shop in store? No worries their online shop is also excellent for browsing and you can find out more about the other creative services they offer around town. They even have gift cards for all those vintage lovers in our life that we can never seem to find the right pressie for.
The vibe here is kooky, cool, eclectic heaven and we cannot get enough! Thirroul Village sure is one of the hippest places in town and Wombat just embodies this all over. With such an excellent variety of antiques and collectables, you’ll be hard-pressed to come away empty-handed! They keep their socials updated with all the funky things they have in store so you can have a peek at the goods before you go! They even have rules for haggling if you’re that way inclined and want to try your luck at scoring a deal. The first and most important rule guys is that cash is king so make sure to have your lobsters and pineapples at the ready.
So that should get you more than started. Go get scouring people! Don’t forget your reusable bags and whilst you’re at it remember to share your retro hauls with us on the socials @thefoldillawarra so we can have a sticky beak too!
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