Ragtime Vintage Clothing: Vintage Couture Paradise and Halloween Haven

On Flora Street resides the bright, violet-painted Ragtime Vintage Clothing. The happy hue of the storefront is mere foreshadowing of the quirky, charming treasures to be found within.

In operation for over thirty years, Ragtime summons the image of the quintessential vintage shop. Upon first arrival, you are bombarded with delicate prints of sweet 1950s dresses, golden Buddha figures and a large jewelry case housing hundreds of accessories ranging from dainty to bold and brazen.

Don’t forget to look up (or down)–the inventory is so massive that ceiling racks and lower floor racks are found throughout the store and are brimming with expertly curated vintage pieces. Above me, I found whimsical pastel dresses starring full, tulle skirts that could easily be found on a prima ballerina and countless fur coats that exude 1920s glamour.

Housing women’s fashion, as well as men’s, you are almost guaranteed to find an item you love with only a cursory glance through the store. A particularly impressive selection of formal dresses and an interesting array of women’s tops and blouses can be found at Ragtime, and a vintage tie collection that can’t be beat.

With names like Armani, Piaf and Coach, the prices are not what you seek at Ragtime. Although it is certainly not difficult to find affordable items–think $25 for a women’s top and $40 for a gown–one of its specialities is the undeniably well-made vintage items that have stood the test of time and run on the pricier side. I fell in intense love with a metallic cocktail dress from the 1950’s that came in around $150. I believe the craftsmanship and other era feel of the dress justified the cost.

Not only an ideal destination for fall or (late) back-to-school shopping, Ragtime is also renowned for its costumes–think Halloween hunt for the perfect ensemble (Penny Lane from Almost Famous could be recreated so easily in this store)! If you don’t feel like making a lifelong commitmentt to your 1980s Cher outfit, costumes can also be rented.

Though online chatter warns of surly staff, they appeared quite approachable, helpful and not pushy in the least. Do not let this talk discourage you from frequenting this store. However be warned that, like many other vintage stores, you may be asked for a bag check with a staff member.

Find Ragtime Vintage clothing conveniently located off of Bank Street at 43 Flora Street. Take a trip when you have an afternoon free and you’re in the mood for shopping and novelty-hunting.