Your Guide to Sourcing Local Second-Hand Treasures Online
What is the allure of vintage shopping? Is it the pleasure of knowing that no one will walk into the room with the same outfit on? The thrill of finally finding the missing piece for your avocado-colored dish set that was made in the '70s? Or, maybe, it’s the connection to the past—contemplating the story behind an item before it found its way into your hands.
Whatever your pull towards vintage is, it’s become easy to find your next second-hand treasure online from local vendors. From unique fashions and accessories to curios and even couches, these shops have curated antique boutiques for your virtual browsing. (Plus, they've provided some pro tips from their years of experience, too.) Happy shopping!
Canned Ham Vintage
If you can’t make it into Canned Ham’s explorative brick-and-mortar store on 12th Street, you can at least visit its website to window shop. With goodies dating from the early 1900s through the 1980s, owner Ashley Rogers curates the classics in addition to more unusual or delicate items. Find dresses, jumpsuits, sets, separates and boudoir wear by labels such as Alfred Shaheen, Gunne Sax and Lilli Ann. 2081 12th St, Sarasota
Pro tip: Rogers recommends following a vintage shop’s Instagram, where items are often posted and sold, before even hitting its official website.
Braden River Antiques
You can visit Braden River Antiques’ new Sarasota storefront at 1005 East Avenue or snoop the shop from the comfort of your settee. Proprietor Jess Sturtevant seeks out unusual or hard-to-find furniture, housewares and art to showcase on his website and Instagram pages. From antique Knoll or Eames pieces to Chinese porcelain and bronzes, Sturtevant likes to hear, “I’ve never seen one of those before!” 1005 East Ave., Sarasota
The Blue Heirloom
The Blue Heirloom’s online store mirrors its physical location on Swift Road. So much to look at! Find everything from cowboy boots to corningware and scroll through pages of art, collectibles, clothing, electronics, vinyl and beyond. New items are added regularly, and co-owner Heather Downie says you never know what might turn up. 5650 Swift Road, Sarasota
Pro tip: Blue Heirloom is one of many shops that use Facebook’s Marketplace and group features—like Sarasota Swap Shop—to connect with nearby vintage admirers and showcase unique wares.
Orange Grove Vintage
If you miss an Orange Grove Vintage pop-up at a local market, you can find the shop on Facebook, Etsy and Instagram. Owner Amanda Price carries fashions and accessories predominantly from the 1950s-70s, though you might find a jazzy '80s romper among her wares. Using her knowledge of fashion history and pop culture, Price finds rare gems to put online—for example, a mermaid-print shift dress seen in the movie Edward Scissorhands in pristine condition.
McCollins Modern
Visit McCollins Modern on Chairish, a website designed for sourcing distinctive antique furnishings. Curated by John Collins and Jennifer McDonald, the shop specializes in mid-century furniture, art and home accessories. Follow McCollins Modern's Instagram for first dibs on show-stopper home furnishings such as a modular Vladimir Kagan sofa or a biomorphic coffee table—and watch for news about a Sarasota storefront opening soon.
Silly Rabbit Vintage
Vintage enthusiast Martha Stinnett updates her Etsy store nearly every day with fashions running the full gamut of the 1900s. She enjoys scouting the classics from the 1960s-70s and designer items such as Gucci accessories. Visit Stinnett’s page for cocktail and day dresses, lingerie, outerwear, menswear and more retro styles.
Art Pool
With its physical store in St. Petersburg closed due to the pandemic, Art Pool is getting creative with its online presence. On Etsy, you can find 1950s tulle prom dresses, vintage fascinators and colorful ponchos. From the shop’s website, order a custom Magical Mystery Box filled with surprise bracelets, necklaces or earrings. Follow the shop’s Instagram for sneak peeks and photos of Franklin, the shop’s style schnauzer influencer. 2030 Central Ave, St. Petersburg
Pro tip: Owner Marina Williams says it never hurts to ask a seller if they have a particular dream item tucked away somewhere. If they don’t, they’re usually happy to keep an eye out while they hunt for new treasures!
