Why is it hot?
Retro Boutique sells everything. Jewellery, dresses, jackets, chairs, mirrors, crockery, light fittings, furniture. If you imagine the type of store the set dressers for Sex and The City visited to kit out Carrie's apartment, you are imagining Retro Boutique. It is packed to the rafters with all kinds of stuff from 1950s onwards; from fittings and furniture to dress every room to clothes and accessories to dress yourself. Clothing wise there are some good quality fake fur and leather jackets to have a look at, plus some great 80s bat-wing knitwear numbers.
For dresses, there are a couple of decent rails full of vintage (mostly 60s and 70s full or three quarter length gowns) which might not be ideal in their current format but the fabrics are in great condition to tailor into a more up to date look.
Where Retro Boutique comes into its own is the accessories. Belts, handbags of all shapes and sizes (some that come with matching shoes!) - all of which are unique - and fantastic cocktail rings and glittery brooches. When I was in I spotted a Vivienne Westwood three string huge faux pearl choker, complete with presentation box, for £45 but at that price it won't be hanging around for long! If you are looking for quirky, not too expensive items to dress your home with then come here; as this store is located out of Leeds city centre and is geared towards the mostly student population who rent in the Hyde Park area their prices reflect this market.
Must Buy?
To die for mock croc bags and gaudy costume brooches. And 50s make up compacts. And the high heels to go with that gorgeous clutch. And...
Jewellery starts at £5, Handbags and shoes are around £15 upwards.
Best Part?
Retro Boutique is open on Sundays - so you can set aside an afternoon to fully satisfy the magpie within.
Address: 8-10 Headingley Lane Hyde Park Leeds LS6 2AS
