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This year, be a bad-ass Santa and stuff your stocking with these rockin’ local gifts…
by Jen Russo, Jacob Shafer and Anu Yagi
(CLICK HERE for more)
From clothing and accessories to curios and household goods, antique and consignment shops — like Bohemia Boutique, Elise Clothing Co., Paia Trading Co. and Rainbow Attic, or the antiques alley that is Wailuku’s Market Street — all have offerings that apply to nearly any of our guide’s categories. No longer just for bailiwick collectors who love good patina, vintage items are hot on everyone’s list — and you just might spock the perfect quirky accoutrement for that perfectly quirky someone on your list. But since offerings are innumerably varied and subject to luck, it’s impossible to describe exactly what you might find.
Instead, here are a few tips on how to shop second hand. First of all, be certain of your gift-receiver’s aesthetic as most shops have an all-sales-final policy. When buying any textile (i.e. clothing, linens, upholstery) spot check for stains and wear—some flaws are fixable and others are not. New or used, it’s always a good idea to flip a garment inside-out and assess the quality of construction and if serged stitches are intact. For ceramics and glassware, check for fissures that might lead to a breakage in the imminent future and always carefully run your finger along an item’s lip to feel for hidden chips. Sets of dishes should come in increments of 4, 6, 8 or 12 (barring serving pieces, of course), so odd-numbered collections mean you have pieces missing. If you’re at a loss for theme, think practical items like vases or platters in favorite colors/motifs (for an added personal touch, fill with fresh flowers or a homemade holiday dish), or industry-related items (e.g. vintage utensils for foodies, antique tools for handymen, etc.). Ask the salesperson if they know the history of the piece. You might get lucky—provenance adds value, and good stories ought not be lost. Also, remember a quick online search from your smart phone can help you tell whether you’re paying over or under market value.
CLICK HERE to return to MauiTime‘s 2010 Local Gift Guide. Or, click a category to jump to it:
PET SOUNDS / BEGGARS BANQUET / SAFE AS MILK / THE CHRONIC / KID A / CRAZYSEXYCOOL / LADY (AND GENTLEMAN) IN SATIN / DIAMONDS FROM SIERRA LEONE / [PAUL’S BOUTIQUE] / HEAD LIKE A HOLE / ON AN ISLAND / SPEAKERBOXX/THE LOVE BELOW / CHALK MARK IN A RAINSTORM / THE RISE AND FALL OF ZIGGY STARDUST… / BEYOND THE SEA ***
*Note: Each category hed is also the title of a famous (or semi-famous) album or song. See how many of the artists you can name.
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