A Tasty Treat: Ragamuffins
Ragamuffins, a University District consignment shop featuring new and vintage clothing, has been on my radar for quite some time. Recently, I happened to be in the “nabe” for another appointment when I noticed that the open door. I took the opportunity to see just what this very cute store was all about.
I’m so glad I did!
Owner Gina Vallone greeted me as I entered. I immediately mentioned how very “summer-breezy” her current window featuring Lilly Pulitzer dresses was. She said “Yes, I carry a lot of vintage Lilly. It’s a big seller.” Indeed. In certain circles, a Lilly Pulitzer dress is the quintessential summer uniform.
For those not in the know, Lilly Pulitzer is an actual person and yes, one of THOSE Pulitzers.
Among their other assets, the Pulitzers owned many Florida orange groves. Making a long story very short, one day, looking for something to do, Lilly decided to open an orange juice stand just off popular Worth Ave. in Palm Beach. A real people-person, Lilly would make great citrus juices for her happy customers. There was only one problem. She was ruining all of her clothes from the juice splatters that would stain their dresses!
Quelle damage!
So Lilly, being a “glass half full” girl, decided to have her dressmaker whip up the current popular sleeveless “shifts” that she wore in colorful prints that would hide the citrus stains.
And a business was born! The Lilly Pulitzer line continues to be a summer fashion staple and to this day, is known for the lines lovely colorful prints.
Along with a great group of Lilly, Ragamuffins has one of those inventories that hunting and gathering shoppers will love. It’s a mix of new, vintage, designer and just plain interesting. Gina confessed to being a “shopaholic” so she knows what women want. She mentioned that “polka dots, seersucker and strappy shoes” are hot right now because of the warmer weather.
I also saw very well-priced cashmere separates TSO (tags still on) as well as some wonderful vintage gowns from the ‘20s, 50’s and ‘70’s, perfect for the upcoming prom season. There was a HUGE wall of shoes, along with many other excellent accessories such as bags, jewelry and belts.
So if fashion hunting is your thing, be sure to stop in, say ‘hi’ to Gina, and maybe even experience the luxury of Lilly!
Ragamuffins 3126 Main St 716.803.3046
Lilly Pulitzer http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lilly_Pulitzer
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fashionvictim
The store isnt bad but its never open!! and look out for stains and rips on the clothes, i bought a dress there last summer and when i got home i noticed some unwashable stains...the owner wouldnt refund or exchange..its my last time shopping there ...
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lauras
I see some of the shop hours appear in the photo above - are these current? I'd like to stop by. Thanks.
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