Toni's Vintage Trips: Vintage & Flash in Sebastopol, CA

It has been a few weeks since I last wrote, but I wanted to share my recent trip to Sonoma County. I was on my way to the Russian River and stopped in Sebastopol, which is about half-way from the Bay Area for a little break and to check out some more vintage clothing stores. The first place I saw on my way into town was Aubergine Vintage Emporium (755 Petaluma Ave. S., Sebastopol, CA, 707-827-3460, www.Aubergineafterdark.com), which I visited in April on my way to Mendocino. It is such an amazing place since it is not only an oversized vintage clothing store, but it also has a bar, cafe and is a music venue. I reintroduced myself to Reeva who is not the manager, but holds the place together very well. I found some fabulous fashion and interesting things. After inspecting the several rows of purses, I found a black Coach shoulder bag for only $16.50. Reeva assured me that it was a GREAT deal. Prices at Aubergine Vintage Emporium are very reasonable and there is so much to choose from. I would suggest that anyone who's reading my blog to check out this store the next time they are heading west on Highway 116.

After that great vintage experience at Aubergine Vintage Emporium, I got back in my car and drove down Highway116 to the heart of the town, called Main Street. There were two stores I wanted to visit here - Only one I'm going to be featuring because it was so different and interesting. The store is call Funk & Flash (228 S. Main St., Sebastopol, CA, 707-829-1142, Funkandflash.com). It is an artistic collection of the very modern, extreme fashion and vintage costumes. It is colorful, playful and and I especially enjoyed their displays including the life-size and life-like rainbow greeter out front. Hope you enjoy the view.