Since opening five years ago, Reuze Vintage has been quietly developing a reputation for its reasonable prices and reliable range of distinctly Australian pieces, from designers like Linda Jackson, Carla Zampatti and Lisa Ho. Owner Angela Greenaway says she’s very selective about the pieces she stocks, focusing on recycled designer clothing rather than straight-up vintage. “I think Australian designers, especially the older ones, are very underrated,” she tells us.
Greenaway’s preferred eras are the ’60s and ’70s, but she stocks anything from the 1950s onwards, including recycled designer bags – we spot a Chanel 2.55 in the window on our visit. “They’re an investment if you look wisely. The designer bags I have are usually vintage Chanel. I don’t get many because I’m very particular about who I get them from.”
Greenaway has been collecting vintage clothing and accessories for around 40 years. Before she opened up her Paddington store she used to sell items at Marrickville Markets, and she’s been procuring vintage pieces from all over New South Wales for decades. Looking around, we spot brands from Banana Republic up to Chloe and Gucci, and prices ranging from $25 up to $500 for a designer bag.
With a keen eye for what looks good on a customer, Greenway is happy to offer lay-by if an item is a little out of reach for this month’s paycheck. “I’m very old-school,” she says. “It’s my business and I like to have faith in people. Quite often, if something looks really good on someone, I’ll give them a discount (if I know they can’t afford it). I help dress people for certain occasions, too, and talk them into buying things – which they haven’t regretted.”