Editorial: Second Time Around

You may not know his but Second Time Around in Long Street has somewhat of an iconic status amidst Cape Town’s vintage stores. It’s been running since 1972 with the current owner, Dee, (wo)manning the till since 1985.

Entering the store is like a dream come true for vintage-lovers and bargain-hunters. Every rail has the potential of offering customers interesting and one-of-a-kind gems.

Dee says that many stylists pass through her doors looking for clothes to hire for magazine shoots (local and overseas), themed parties, TV ads and film shoots, and it’s easy to see why. From 1920s flapper dresses to zany 80s outfits, you’d be hard-pressed not to find something that tickles your fancy.

The 1970s back to 1920s items are hard to come by, Dee tells us, so she tries to hold onto them, hiring them out instead of selling them. She gets her stock from around the world. People bring in clothes for Dee to buy or to sell on consignment which means that there are quite a few contemporary items on the rails too.

It must be fun running such a popular clothing store: “I think the most enjoyable thing working in my vintage store is the people, they enjoy finding a rare find and fit and they appreciate the fabrics and finish/cut of the older clothing. Capetonians have always had a flair for being stylish and different; they are great!”

YCLAD spent some time sourcing some of the best items. Have a look!

Red sequin top R68, white high-waisted shorts R95, grey heels R100, white beaded necklace R150Floral blouse R45, navy blue skirt R180, blue heels R45, blue/cream waist belt R39, cream clutch (leather) R135.