Vinny's.

In the "world" of fashion, I think it's sometimes difficult to justify our incessant purchases  

and the benefits of our insatiable material obsessions. 

 True, it's no different than any other form of collecting or aesthetic appreciation - but something about the word "Fashion" rubs people the wrong way.  So yesterday's excursion proved to be a refreshing little venture which reinforced that style and good samaritanship don't have to be mutually exclusive. 

 I headed to St. Vincent de Paul's, the thrift store recently voted #1 Resale/Vintage Shop by Madison's Isthmus. Turns out, it was perfect timing, because my recent obsession with DIY projects only compounded my appreciation for the inspiring raw materials scattered throughout the store. 

 

 "St. Vinny's", as it's known by those...in the know, was first opened on Willy Street in 1941(!!) and has evolved from a small mom and pop shop into a full blown DIY day dream, 

True, much of the clothing can be worn sans nip and tuck (like the edited selections in the "Rendu" section), but the insane patterns and textures popping out from every nook and cranny would make for some killer high-waisted shorts, printed totes, pocket patches.... etc etc. 

 Am I right, or am I right?

And, as a recent graduate with nonexistent insufficient funds for furnishing, I was particularly fond of the wooden chairs, chests and bureaus, as well as the cool random knick knacks - perfect for spicing up a bland space.

 All the money Vinny's makes helps to clothe, feed and house the less fortunate in town, and the items which simply can't be sold are recycled and reused for various purposes.

I also learned that apparently I'm not the only one hopping on the DIY train. St. Vinny's Facebook page offers creative ideas for reusing old items in unexpected ways - like painting vintage picture frames or making use of out-of-date filing cabinets. 

So if you're in the area, check it out, and anyone out there should make sure to show me any projects you undertake. New DIY ideas are in high demand over here. I can only bleach so much denim. 

St. Vincent de Paul Store

Website

(Willy Street) Facebook

Cheers.