#56 Paseo de las Artes

Monterrey, Mexico is an industrial city, fostered by the economic growth of cement, beer and glass industries. The city has expanded away from the “Barrio Antiguo,” the downtown area that saw it all begin, though it’s more alive than ever. It’s a dangerous place, but very rich in culture.

Every Sunday merchants gather at one of the streets downtown to sell antiquities and hand-made articles. It was known as “Paseo de las Artes” before the city took hold of it and renamed it “Callejón Cultural.” Old radios, earrings, necklaces, books, paintings, LP players, furniture, drawings and ornaments fill up three streets for the occasion. Some people sell dolls, butterflies, necklaces or drawings they make.

These merchants set up at noon and wait for people to pass by on their way to one of the many restaurants in the area. Something they’re selling might catch their interest. At around 6 p.m. they start to leave, when night falls and the streets empty out.

#37 SHop ‘Till You Drop

Old is new and out is in. Gotta love the look!

I currently live in Austin, Texas, a city that could be easily

described as a “hippie town.” Where as the flower child skipping

down the street singling along to the music in his or her head is

a little more than I thought I bargained for, the vintage shopping

comes second to none if you know where to go. I’m gonna let you

guys in on a couple secrets:

1. Don’t go vintage shopping on the drag. The clothes and

accessories aren’t that cute, and you will end up over paying.

2. Don’t judge a book by its cover. Some of the creepy looking

places have the best well-kept treasures and secrets!

3. Always double check your items for holes, stains, or defects.

Many vintage stores do not have a return policy.

4. Be prepared to dig. Nothing worth having isn’t worth working

for!
Now, my top three favorite places to go:

1. Big Bertha’s Bargain Basement. Make sure you give yourself a

couple of hours to get lost in this place. A sweet connection with

Paramount studios makes for an awesome environment. They have a

great collection of both vintage clothing and home decor. Go in,

get lost in the merchandise, and get great stuff!

2. Populuxe Wearable Art Boutique. This place is so old school

that they don’t even have a website! I love going here to get

great costume jewelry that you can’t find anywhere else. From

big and gaudy to dainty and feminine, this place will have what

you want in a mixture of new and old pieces! Check it out to

accessorize yourself for your next semi-formal or costume party!

3. Room Service Vinatge. This is a vintage store with a real Austin

feel. You can buy new old stuff, or try to sell them your old stuff.

They specialize in vintage furniture. Every piece in the store has a

cool story. It’s a great place to go when you have a room that needs

a new look to fit a hippie town!
Okay ya’ll…

Ready, Set, SHOP!