What You’ll Find at The Ottawa Antique Market & Vintage Clothing Show

I've always been an avid vintage shopper, but I feel as though my antique hunting skills have flourished since moving to Ottawa.  By no means am I a seasoned expert, but I now have a better understanding and appreciation for vintage wares.

I'm incredibly thankful for the Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show, because it was the first event I attended on my own when I moved to this wonderful city. I met so many lovely, enthusiastic vendors and patrons and truly felt welcomed into the community. I now mark my calendars months in advance for the show, as well as the Ottawa Vintage & Antique Market.

My most coveted pieces are from these shows, and I proudly display them in my home, or on myself when the occasion strikes.

Since these events have brought so much joy to my life (and my wardrobe, for that matter), I wanted to share my photos of the most recent events I attended on October 22nd and November 6th, 2016!

I won't be sharing my purchases this time because they're intended for my wedding, and I'd like to keep them under wraps for now (Sorry!). However, I'll happily show you what I wish I had bought at the The Ottawa Vintage & Antique Market and The Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show.

One of the things I love about antiques is seeing the different colours and textures that fail to exist in today's shops. I love this bubble effect on these glass pieces.

Not my cup of tea, but perhaps these vintage Porsche cup and saucer sets are up your alley!

Furs may be controversial, but buying a vintage coat does seem more ethical than purchasing a brand new one.

Plenty of unique and wonderful gift ideas to be found at the Antique Market.

This little mermaid painting stopped me in my tracks!

This antique model ship was HUGE, and has such amazing detail.

I love shearling details, especially when it's flaming fuchsia.

 Of course the shows cater to all budgets, including those with designer tastes. Oh how I long for that glossy Chanel bag!

I'm still kicking myself for not picking these sweethearts up! A lesson I've learned fairly quickly from shopping these shows is if you love it, BUY IT. Don't wait on it, because in most cases it won't be there when you come back!

Vendors get creative with their displays. I love colour-coded setups like this - How cute!

Looking for stunning pieces to style your home? There's always incredible furniture to be found at these events.

Vintage Marc Jacobs sunnies are always in style.

 Coco Chanel once said, "When accessorizing, always take off the last thing you put on," but life is more fun when you break the rules.

I've found many stylish hostess/host gifts at these events over the years. Midcentury barware is always welcome at my house.

This beaded beauty was from the 1920s and took my breath away. Love the unexpected colour combinations and the delicate, sheer fabric holding it together.

I swear, this Bakelite purse could sell at Zara today in a heartbeat. So quirky yet classic!

 This vintage beaded top would be a sparkling sight at any holiday party.

Hats of every shape and colour!

 Of course the crowd is always full of interesting folks.

Me & my new vintage-loving pal.

Can you believe this stunner of a dress was on sale for $25?!

 Velvet? Check. Bodysuit? Check. Detachable feather collar? WHY NOT?!

Have a favourite colour? You're sure to find something!

I have a growing collection of antique perfume bottles, so this definitely caught my eye!

I'm a sucker for anything kitschy. This bowling shirt is another piece I kick myself for not buying, even if it was too big for me.

You just know Sharon was a cool gal.

A Gatsby approved accessory.

This little velvet babydoll dress is just too cute for words.

This celestial printed dress had me starry eyed!

Vintage lingerie will always make me swoon. So many shades of chiffon.

The Ottawa Vintage Clothing Show runs semi-annually in November & April at the Shaw Centre. The Ottawa Antique & Vintage Market is held annually in October, at the Carleton University Fieldhouse. Both events are only $10 to attend!

Did you make it out to these shows? What were your fave finds? Where do you shop for vintage and antique shops in Ottawa? Tell me in the comments!