Toni's Vintage Trips: Vintage Dreaming in Upper Temescal (Oakland, CA)

It is so true that sometimes the best things are in your own backyard. I have been eyeing a small strings of antique stores across from my pet shop on Telegraph Avenue for some time. Last weekend, I crossed the street to see what I could find and was so happy to see very cool vintage clothes. I decided that rather than travel the ends of the earth this weekend, I would visit these stores and share my vintage discoveries with you.

The first store I visited, Says Who! Seams to Fit is a very unique consignment shop that specializes in plus sizes. It has been at the same location for over 30 years and has some very loyal shoppers. They sell both new and consignment clothes, shoes and purses and also have some vintage items. It's a great store to visit and they also are a hair salon, so you can get your hair trimmed while you shop.

My second store to visit, Down At Lulu's, is also one of my favorites that I have featured before. I love Down At Lulu's because it is colorful, lively and strictly vintage. Whether you are looking for a period outfit or just something cool to wear, this is the place to find it. They also have a hair salon in the store, so you can shop and style-up your hair at the same time. It is definitely the best vintage store in my neighborhood and I suggest that anyone visiting Berkeley venture down Telegraph Avenue to this very hip store.

My third stop was TEL - Total Estate Liquidation, which is near the corner of Telegraph Ave. and Alcatraz Ave. on the Berkeley/Oakland border. This antique store has many interesting items from estate sales, including vintage clothes and jewelry. They also sell at the Alameda Antique Fair every month, so keep your eye out for their booth. Their prices are very reasonable. I bought a 1950's cashmere sweater for under $10 and a vintage Swiss Army watch for $50. Kathy Pimpan owns the store and her sales rep, Dulce was very friendly and helpful to me. She even set up a gorgeous vintage velvet jacket and matching hat and jewelry on a mannequin for me to photograph. I will definitely be coming back here to shop.

My final stop was the store next door, Mixed Pickles Antiques, owned by Sharon and Roger. This is an antique store, but has some very beautiful vintage dresses and coats. I wish I could have photographed more of the things I saw here, but am able to share some of the highlights. Enjoy!