Vintage shopping reinvents old Hollywood glam

In an area as large as Brooklyn, finding the best vintage shops is a difficult task. Tucked behind apartments, grocery stores, and restaurants, two vintage shops stand out—Eva Gentry and Old Hollywood.

Atlantic Avenue has store after store full of interesting items. One-of-a-kind wedding dresses? Check. Dark wood furniture fit for a cabin? Check. A sea of warm flannel shirts? Check. Yet, the crisp light of a cool winter day shines a little extra on a vintage, red, Chanel outfit on display at Eva Gentry. It is an omen of the good fortune waiting to be found inside.

“There’s a sale going on right now,” said the slim salesman. “Items are up to forty percent off.” Color coordinated outfits are appealingly aligned against the store’s immaculate walls. The store offers classic vintage pieces, like three of Diane Von Furstenberg’s classic jersey dresses, some staple Manolos, and a pair of YSL heels predating both Tom Ford’s and Stefano Pilati’s reign at the French house.

Students are certain to find pieces suited to their personal tastes—be it a teal Thakoon dress, smoky Peter Som frock, or Jil Sander coat. At relatively affordable prices, students can invest in vintage, designer pieces guaranteed to reinvent any wardrobe. Though to-die-for heels are a little difficult to find in this fashion mecca, flats abound in the likes of leopard print Giambattista Vallis and neutral colored Lanvins.

A quick ride on the G train will bring shoppers to Greenpoint’s Old Hollywood. The apparel section is limited and disappointing—a pink wool cape with a silver fox collar was the best find. And while simple $10 scarves will keep necks warm, they won’t make a fashion statement anytime soon.

The store’s jewelry collection, however, is what sets it apart from all other contenders. In every crevice the store harbors unique, well-crafted jewelry. Bold types will crave the costume jewelry—brightly colored cocktail rings, button earrings, and statement necklaces. Men will shell out for handsome, animal-inspired brass necklaces, and sterling silver rings. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, lovers can find perfect gifts for one another, including matching bracelets meant to last forever.

A trip down to Brooklyn will remind Columbians that the world outside the walls of Butler grants gifts to those who explore.