I read the Gazette’s recent series on the downtown Northampton business climate with great interest as a shopper, city resident and businessperson.
For five years, I’ve sold vintage housewares, clothing and furniture. I have vintage mall booths in Northampton and Easthampton, and sell on eBay, Etsy, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Previously, I worked at a downtown vintage shop for three and a half years.
I wanted to comment on the point of view expressed by a Smith College student that downtown vintage shops are too expensive so she thrifts or buys online for convenience and price. It is a common notion that vintage shop items come from thrift shops. Most come directly from homes, flea markets, estates and private transactions among people in the secondhand business.
Do look for vintage at thrift shops — when you find it, it will be a deal. But the best stuff doesn’t come from thrift shops. While anyone can shop a flea market or public estate sale, it takes time (years!) and effort to make the key relationships and connections in the secondhand world. Prices may be higher in shops because of rent, fees and utilities. But the advantage buying to retail locally is no shipping, no waiting for purchases and no buying without trying on.
I price compared items I’m selling at my vintage malls with online sold prices. For example, a Vintage 1980s Lee Storm Rider Denim Jacket. My price at Vintage Cellar in Northampton is $55. The average sold prices in the past three months on eBay is about $65, plus $10 shipping. You save $20. A Parini New, Unused Flame Square Nonstick Baking Pan with vintage looks sells for $27 at Vintage Cellar East in Easthampton, $27. The sold price on eBay is $25, plus $20 for shipping. You save $20.
So generally, my prices are similar to what’s online without extra for shipping, the wait or the hit or miss fit issue.
Julie Zuckman
Florence