Repurpose, Reuse, Recycle – Buy Vintage

One of my favorite ways to repurpose, reuse and recycle is to buy vintage.  From furniture to fashion to fabulous fabrics, you can find all sorts of cool getups from days gone by, at prices designed for an economy that’s harshin’ your mellow!

My latest addiction (or afflication, as my husband might say) is collecting aprons circa 1930 – 1950.  Not being much of a June Cleaver-esque housemaker, I team ‘em up with jeans & boots, or skirts & flip flops.  It’s fun when people stop me to ask about them – and most have no idea I’m wearing an apron!

If you’re ever in the Tampa Bay area, be sure to stop into Buffalo Gal Vintage (BGV) for the most unique collection of finds from late 1800’s to 1970’s.  Stock includes “old new”, “new old” and everything in between.  Located in a fab vintage home, it’s filled with treasures galore for the girliest of girls (and slickest of daddy-O’s).

What makes this boutique incredibly unique is the painstaking attention to detail that Desiree (aka, Buffalo Gal) takes to ensure every piece is like new.  Unlike vintage shops that reek of musty incense, everything in BGV smells divine, like fresh linen waters from decades ago.  That’s because every vintage piece is laundered and pressed before making it into the shop.

With Halloween just around the corner, BGV is a great place to shop for a cool getup that you’ll be able to wear long beyond Halloween.  Now that’s the way to “eco-shop”!  Whether you’re into Rockabilly stylin’, Audrey Hepburn chic or Bettie Page pinup, BGV has it ALL.

And speaking of pinup, it is THE place to go for a professional pinup photography session.  There are even rumblings about burlesque dance classes, for those of you looking to cut a few moves.  The BGV website is not fully functioning just yet, but you can check out some fun photos here.

As much as I love many of the hottest eco-friendly fabrics, gorgeous clothing and talented designers, the prices are astronomical.   In the current economic climate, it just doesn’t make sense (or cents).  I believe being kind to our environment includes being socially conscious by purchasing locally and supporting small business, so have fun and do your part to repurpose, reuse and / or recycle!

In health,
barbara-ann