Monkeying around at The Attic |

Sometimes the best treasures are found stashed away in the nooks and crannies of closets, basements, attics or any other hidden space where things go to be forgotten.

A couple of my favourite pieces were passed down to me by my Nona, after I discovered a few previously prized possessions stored for years deep down in her huge, cold basement. The best find was a classic fur collared coat with my Nona’s initials delicately stitched inside.

We go bargain hunting at second hand stores to find an awesome vintage steal. The adrenaline rush I feel when I find an amazing piece doesn’t come from the cheap price tag, but from discovering a hidden gem that has lived many lives, has its own story and at one time had sentimental value to someone else.

The thing about second hand shopping is you have to be patient and take your time searching through all the duds to find that one special piece that makes it all worth while.

I love to go places that are out of the way and dingy. No I don’t love the smell of must and dust, but unlike the sexy trendy vintage shops, second shops that aren’t as visually appealing have fantastic items because they aren’t picked over and the prices are always lower.

My best friend Erika took me to an odd little place in downtown Vancouver that is no fashion hot spot. We did have a few laughs at some of the items, yet in the end we each left with a great piece to add to our closets.

I have a slight obsession with vintage coats. I found a wonderful black, fur collared, ankle-length coat, with leather detailing at the bottom, for the unbelievable price of $25! There is a picture of the coat I bought below, along with a couple hilarious items… like what is with the monkey shoe?!