Meep’s and Aunt Neensie’s
Ideal for the adventurous and funky vintage veteran, Meep’s sells retro pieces that mesh well with the modern wardrobe. Whether you’re looking to add an eclectic flair to your style or simply searching for the perfect Halloween costume, you’ll want to check out this shop. In addition to a great collection of 1960s and ‘70s pieces, Meep’s also sells handmade clothing and accessories by local designers. Though you might want to brush up on your rummaging skills to take full advantage, even the thrift store novice will be inspired by this unique and affordable collection.
Mood Indigo
The mural of Duke Ellington on the facade of this quaint vintage gem speaks for itself. If you’re going for a Billie Holiday swing-era look, Mood Indigo is a great place to jazz up your wardrobe. Carrying mostly 1940s vintage and novelty items, this nostalgia shop will take you back to the golden age of U Street in style. To sweeten the pot, the store, formerly a dry cleaner’s, even has a nifty automated rack to liven up the shopping experience. Hot Dawg!
Deja Blue
Before you squander your hard-earned money on mass produced “vintage-inspired” threads and vanities from Urban Outfitters, check out the real deal just across the street at Deja Blue. Home to “thousands of old jeans,” the pants in this second-hand shop come in all shapes and sizes with a healthy dose of life experience. After you find the perfect fit and bell-bottom circumference, you can kick it old school style with a pair of Converse sneakers or dress up your denim with some vintage costume jewelry.
Alley Cat Vintage
Although half the fun of thrift shopping is in the arduous process of sifting through racks and bales of old clothes, there is still hope for the weak and weary. The vintage connoisseur can find the hassle-free process of online shopping equally fulfilling at alleycatvintage.com. This techno-savvy vendor boasts an impressive assortment of one-of-a-kind classics, some of which have been in vogue since the 1800s. Although I wouldn’t recommend sporting a hoop skirt over your leggings this season, Alley Cat Vintage has a great collection of affordable shoes, scarves and dresses conformable to the 21st century wardrobe. Why not add a touch of 1920s Hollywood glamour to your evening wear or sport a pair of Edwardian lace-up boots with your new Gap skinny jeans? When fortune and public transportation fail you, brave the technological Alley-way and you’re sure to find something that suits your nostalgic fancy.
Meep’s is located at 2104 18th St. NW. Take the G2 Howard University bus to P and 18th St. and walk six blocks north.
Mood Indigo is located at 1214 U Street, just a block east of the U Street Metro stop on the green line.
Deja Blue is located at 3005 M St., across from Urban Outfitters.
Alleycatvintage.com
