Vintage Eye Candy

Elaine's Vintage Clothing

This week I revisited a fabulous vintage clothes shop on St Stephen's Street in Stockbridge, Edinburgh. The last time I was there was about 20 years ago (!) and, honestly, I can't think why it's taken me so long to go back.

Back then I was looking for something to wear to a graduation ball, something that would keep me comfortable in my own skin and not feel like I was competing with the frilly strapless numbers on offer on the high street. At that time St Stephen's Street was full of vintage shops, vying with one another to provide wonderful items for the savvy (and stylish) shopper. Slowly they disappeared to be replaced with nail salons and 'art' shops but Elaine's has survived. It was in Elaine's that I found a floor length, handmade, forest green velvet evening gown which was simple and yet so special (it still hangs in my wardrobe and, although it no longer fits, I can't bear to part with it).

In store just now are beautiful swimming costumes (the ones with shirring on the back, low legs, little skirts and shaped bodices with collar details), ball gowns, velvet capes, luxurious quilted satin bed jackets, a white linen romper suit, a bullet bra (glorious in black satin, unworn and with original original tag still attached!) and endless lovelies from throughout the first three-quarters of the twentieth century.*

As if that's not enough the owner is incredibly friendly, helpful and very obviously knows and loves her items and who, I think, has opened the mind of daughter no 2 – who was with me on this visit but is a confirmed high street shopper and liker of things 'fashionable' – to the joys of vintage.

Elaine's Vintage Clothing doesn't have a website (that I can find) but if you are in Edinburgh it is well worth a visit: Elaine's Vintage Clothing, 55 St Stephen Street, Stockbridge, Edinburgh. Open Tues to Sat from 1-6pm.

A new vintage shop has just opened on the street too so the future is looking good!

If you do make it to St Stephen's Street don't miss out on the opportunity to check out the authentic Italian coffee at Sprio or the eclectic mix of bars and restaurants dotted along the street.


* Please note that 80s is NOT vintage. I lived through the horrors of 80s fashion first time round – it was not good, even then – and I refuse to believe that I am old enough for those styles to be vintage!