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retail therapy

Browse Vintage Finds in Our Latest Shop-A-Matic

Clockwise from left: Gianni Versace Paneled Dress, Geometric Two-Piece Tank and Bolero Set, Avon Geo Pendant, Metallic Sheer Fan Dress, and Mini Distressed Brown Briefcase.

With retailers in the midst of summer markdowns and nearly every label throwing a sample sale, you can still find something unique without sifting through the same five trends on the sale racks: old vintage things! In our latest Shop-A-Matic we scoured some of the city's best vintage shops to showcase some of their latest wares from their ever-so-obscure sources. Since it's the middle of summer, lightweight dresses from the seventies and eighties abound, but many stores are already thinking of fall and offering heavier jackets and thick wool dresses. As with all great vintage finds, the pieces in this Shop-A-Matic are all one-of-a-kind and may be gone before you get a chance to hit the store, so buyer be forewarned.

Gianni Versace Paneled Dress
Price: $285
Why We Like It: Vintage Versace is currently having a moment, but donning crazy pants should generally be left to the pants-less. This structured paneled sheath, dating to the early nineties, looks surprisingly current and chic. While it may be too warm now for the long sleeves, it will be an ideal work-appropriate staple come fall.

Geometric Two-Piece Tank and Bolero Set
Price: $125
Why We Like It: Tribal prints have been a recurring runway trend in the past few years, but the look was big in the sixties too. This two-piece set from that era is best split up: Throw the bolero over a plain tee and pair the cropped tank with a maxi skirt.

Avon Geo Pendant
Price: $35
Why We Like It: While vintage clothes may be difficult to fit and require tailoring, vintage jewels are an easy way to add a unique piece to your wardrobe. This statement necklace looks great worn alone but has enough length for layering.

Metallic Sheer Fan Dress
Price: $36
Why We Like It: Sheer pieces are popping up both on the red carpet and on the streets. This gauzy dress can be worn in a multitude of ways: Layer a contrasting slip to highlight the print or play up the short length by wearing it as a tunic over slim cropped trousers.

Mini Distressed Brown Briefcase
Price: $184
Why We Like It: Originally made in the thirties, the slouchy and perfectly worn messenger-style sling is reminiscent of popular contemporary styles without being instantly recognizable. And despite being nearly a century old, the leather is in impeccable condition.

Photo: Photo: A.J. Wilhelm and courtesy of Amarcord