Shop-About – Retro, Vintage and Thrift

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

Submitted by Ken Hirter

This November has me strolling and thinking of Retro, Vintage and Thrift Store Shopping at its very best. Walking through the International Village starting at the Gateway to Downtown sign at King Street East and Wellington Street.

Retro and Vintage refers to fashion, furniture, jewelry or designs from the past- primarily from the 1950s on.

A Thrift Store is a shop selling second hand clothing, jewelry and other household items.

So become a ‘Spend Thrift’ using money and other resources carefully and reducing waste, valuing self reliance and saving money on a shoe string budget. Looking for Retro, Vintage and Cool stuff? Look no further than a couple of blocks in the International Village along King Street.

Here are a few of the Retro, Vintage and Thrift Store finds along the way.

WINK by Out of the Past, 201 King Street E.

(905) 522-6464

Instagram @ wink.by.ootp

Facebook @ WINK by OOTP

Jeanna Guerretta, Manager

“Curated affordable vintage clothing and lifestyle” They specialize in retro clothes and accessories for those looking for unique finds. Check out this awesome, colorful shop with the upside-down umbrellas as you enter.

Vintage Soul Geek, 279 King Street East.

(905) 518-1733

www.vintagesoulgeek.com

Social @Vintagesoulgeek

“Vintage clothing, jewelry and accessories from the late 1800s – 1990s. Your one stop vintage shop!” Vintage Soul Geek is known for quality vintage clothing, hats and a large vast selection of collectables, jewelry and much more at reasonable prices. Walking into this delightful shop is a real step back in time and a big dose of nostalgia as well. Drop by today and visit the husband and wife team of Nick and Connie.

The Salvation Army Hamilton Downtown Thrift Store, 250 King Street East.

(905) 526 – 0131

Social media http://www.thriftstore.ca/locations

The Salvation Army motto is REFRESH, RECYLE, RESTYLE. Canada’s largest clothing recycler where shhh…you will find Fab Finds at hugesSavings on brand names every day. There is no HST on all clothing and household items (excluding new merchandise). The Salvation Army Thrift Store offers 10% off for Seniors every day. (Age 60+)

If you want to make a donation you can do so by the back door entry off Main Street East just ring the bell for pick up. The Salvation Army Thrift Store Downtown location has served Hamilton for decades now. Everything is all under one roof and another trip of nostalgia anyone?

In closing l would like to thank the shopkeepers of International Village. It takes the people to make a village – l thank you.

I have been a keen retro, vintage, thrift store shopper since my Kensington Market and Queen Street West days in Toronto and here in Hamilton and the North End since 2011. These stores will never do go out of style and are generational. The best value for your buck makes for a fun filled day spent Retro, Vintage and Thrift Store shopping in the International Village.

Support the small businesses and nonprofit businesses in the Downtown Core in your town or city today.

I also want to pay homage to a North End neighborhood staple, New Horizons Thrift Store which was at 520 James Street North. It was a dynamic store and a treasure trove of deals from books, clothing, household items plus much more. It was neighborhood community gathering spot as well. The New Horizon’s Thrift Store was established in 1983. It was originally known as The Clothes Closet and operated out of the Welcome Inn Community Center, 40 Wood Street where all their programs were under one roof at that time. In 2007 they changed the name to New Horizon’s Thrift Store. Sadly, the shop closed in 2021. Welcome Inn is working on plans to expand/ relocate bringing new Horizon’s Thrift Store under one roof with all of their programs. Going back to the service premise of 1983.

Cheers, till next time.