Above the Fray: Vintage Mania in Chelsea!

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Despite facing a daunting line this afternoon, we have nothing but good things to say about the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show, which began today and ends tomorrow. Twenty dollars lighter (the admission fee), we're back with a report on the shopping madness that's taking place right now in Chelsea. Let us break it down for you:

The scene:
The place was buzzing with fashionistas, stylists, a smattering of designers and their flacks (we spied Tory Burch and co.) and other industry types navigating the mind-melting 85 vendor booths—local Manhattan boutiques as well as out-of-state vintage dealers. You'll see every conceivable clothing and accessories type: dresses, skirts, blouses, hats, gloves, coats, scarves, bags, jewelry, shoes, and so forth. There were one-of-a-kind oddball pieces but plenty of designer labels like Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Burberry, and Valentino. The place is organized but the shoppers are accumulating, which isn't a bad thing: while the browsing is excellent, the people-watching here is really second to none.

The prices:
We thought the prices were very reasonable by vintage standards. A black ostrich-feathered Valentino cropped jacket was $350, a mint green and black strapless ruffle minidress by Emmanual Ungaro was $350, and many shoes were below $100. Negotiating is customary, so don't settle for the asking price!

The dressing room situation:
You can leave a credit card or ID with booth attendants and venture to one of the two on-site dressing rooms to try their clothing on. However, many shoppers were going the flea market or sample sale route and simply stripping down in the booth.

The show continues through tomorrow, and if you're a vintage-enthusiast, it's a must. Run!, go go go, etc.
· Above The Fray: Hundreds Wait To Enter Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show [Racked]