Buffalo Rising Online

Nov 23rd 2008, 11:22am By queenseyes

If you're into vintage shopping... you know, the thrill of the hunt... then we have the perfect shop for you. The shop's location is just like the merchandise that you'll find inside - obscure and definitely not on the main drag. Ragamuffins is located on West Utica between Elmwood and Delaware across from the vast amounts of parking lots that have turned the neighborhood into a 'paved paradise'. Fortunately, the North side of the street has remained relatively intact... and that's where you will find this quirky handpicked, hand-me-down oasis.

Even though Ragamuffins is new to the Elmwood District, the shop has been around for close to a decade. It's owner, Gina Vallone, decided to pull up roots in the University District to test the waters closer to Elmwood (but not on Elmwood). By doing this, Gina was able to triple the size of the interior footprint, thus increasing threefold the amount of in-stock merchandise. "It was a timely move for me," Gina said. "It's a great old house with an apartment upstairs. By not locating directly on Elmwood I am saving on costs which I can put back into inventory."

If you know anything about vintage apparel and accessories, then one look at Ragamuffins' inventory is all you need to know that there are some serious finds to be found. Unfortunately there's not a lot for guys, but if you're a girl, then you're in luck. And if you're into vintage shoes, you're really in luck. On the far back shelf there's a pair of white go-go boots that Barbarella would have gone crazy for. We also found a box of knit hats that the Buffalo News delivery boys were outfitted with (odd). Trench coats, mini skirts, handbags and belt buckles can be found everywhere. Plus, the prices are excellent, especially if you're accustomed to seeing the vintage markups in NYC and Toronto.

The sign on the front of the house states, "We buy and sell Dior, Pucci, LV, Lilly, St. John Gucci and Chanel"... and they're not kidding. I saw a great old Burberry army-style trench coat for $40. And original astrological chart belt buckles. The woman's boot and shoe selection was extensive, and little curiosities could be found just about everywhere. Like I said, if you're into this sort of thing, you must add Ragamuffins to your list of vintage shops to scope out.

Apparently they're also having a 50% off sale (not sure if that's all merchandise or not), so get there while the selections are good. I would suggest that you call ahead to make sure that the store is open before you head over.

Ragamuffins is located at 201 West Utica (716) 803-3046