[singlepic id=36 w=320 h=240 float=left]When we think of Newport, R.I. what first comes to mind are polo shirts, topsiders, and yachts, but Newport actually has much to offer for the aficionado of vintage culture and history. The glorious Gilded Age mansions offer a peek into the decadent life of American royalty, and the architectural wonders their wealth produced. A variety of stores sell local artisan crafts along the Thames Street strip, and dozens of perfectly quaint bed and breakfasts provide a cozy resting place for the weary traveler. However, a notable and less expected offering is the array of vintage and consignment stores in the area; Vintage to Vogue at 70 Broadway Street is a splendid example.

This small, overflowing shop offers an eclectic variety of pieces ranging from turn of the century to modern. [singlepic id=35 w=320 h=240 float=right]They offer a surprising variety of 1940s day wear, vintage costume jewelry, and vintage fur all at reasonable to bordering on criminally low prices. Owner Shaina Gains is an experienced vintage appraiser with an eye for garments with unique quirks and details. She is also a lively personality who is quick to pull garments on a customer’s behalf, knowing by sight both their size and style preferences.

Recently we visited the store with a particular hope: to find a summer appropriate vintage straw bag in a neutral color. We were pleased to find over a dozen options in the store, some more modern, but mostly vintage. It was not long before the perfect specimen was procured: white straw, with a carved wooden handle, brass fasteners, and leather interior all for the unbeatable price of $26. We also found a modern robin’s egg blue silk wrap skirt that was marked down to $10. Short on time, we were not able to properly peruse the overflowing racks of costume jewelry, but planned a return trip to do so since we can never have enough sparkle.

[singlepic id=34 w=320 h=240 float=left]The beauty of small, carefully stocked stores is that the particular shopper with an eye for detail and a desire for a particular item is likely to walk out happy – whether it’s with the intended item in tow or simply with a promise that they will receive a call if that item comes into stock. And with all Newport has to offer, the hours drive is more than worth it, so one always hopes for an excuse to visit again.

Vintage to Vogue’s website can be found here.