As Alison points out in Alligators..., she'd much rather just shop for vintage, and make mistakes along the way, than sit down with a stack of books and do research.
But when it came to writing a book, we wanted to get it right, so we went on a reference hunt, scouring the shelves of new and old book stores. For the most part, the best of what we found focuses on a niche. And, for collectors, especially those with big budgets, these books can be a godsend. But for most of us, these books are more like a satisfying sweet, as delectable as a hot fudge sundae or the first fall morning at a great flea market.
We could have spent a month just on Judith Miller's Collector's Guides Costume Jewelry, which makes you want to quit your job and spend every waking hour hunting for turquoise, rhinestones and pearls. But before you do this, check on the state of your 401K.
A book called Boutique, by Marnie Fogg, could drive at least a few of us to throw out our entire wardrobes in favor of the best of the '60s. And those vintage afficionados who weren't even born in 1960 must take a peak at this book. It's a great history lesson.
For a broader view of vintage, and for help both buying and wearing everything from Western wear to palazzo pants (or figuring out what they are), two entertaining options are Vintage Style, by Tiffany Dubin and Ann E. Berman, and Wearing Vintage, by Catherine Bardey. Anyone who has yet to make his or her first vintage purchase will find some new passion, thanks to one of these books.
Of course, there's much, much more in the reading/research department, and we're happy to steer you toward the best. And if you have a favorite vintage resource, please drop us a note. Find our Vintage Reading List in the right column.
Alligators, Old Mink & New Money, One Woman's Adventures in Vintage Clothing was written by sisters Alison and Melissa Houtte and is available in the U.S. and Canada in both hardback (top; William Morrow/Harper Collins) and paperback (Avon Trade).
You can also buy the UK edition (Orion Publishing) in hardback in England, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales. Orion's paperback edition (below) is also now on sale.
I had the pleasure of shopping in Hootie Couture today and was simply delighted to meet Alison. The energy in the store and her energy was breathtaking. I can't wait for your new book to be released. You have a new fan in me! All the best.
Posted by: Cole Williams | October 04, 2005 at 10:55 PM
My sister came across this book while working at the public library and knowing about my years of collecting vintage clothing, she put the book aside for me. I found the book to be very interesting and entertaining, especially because I can relate to "the hunt" for stuff! I also come from a large family of six children here in Erie, Pennsylvania, where I've been very lucky to find many great items. I'm now 50 years old and I finally decided last year to downsize considerably. I was thrilled to resell for a very nice profit to vintage stores in Cleveland and Buffalo. But I am not ready to part with my really good pieces!! I guess that I'll always be out there looking!
Posted by: Diane Schneider | December 19, 2005 at 06:50 PM
Hi Alison - you may or may not remember us but both Richard & myself visited your shop while we were holidaying in the US in April we are the aussies who bought goodies for our daughter Petra. I'm sorry its taken me so long getting back to you but I would just like to let you know that Petra fell in love with the items we brough home for her and is always wearing something each time she goes out.
I'm so glad we had the opportunity of meeting you it truly was a memorable experience, you are just fabulous you Hot Dog you. Go Alison go
Kind regards
Jennifer from Australia (Perth)
PS By the way the bagels were fabulous and after all that shopping - wow what a treat
Posted by: Jennifer Sully | July 24, 2008 at 07:13 AM