Since moving to Cairns, QLD, Australia in April, I’ve been slowly exploring the area and finding different activities that interest me. Cairns is definitely more suited for the outdoorsy/sporty type, of which I am not. I find more joy in artsy, musical, and creative things, which makes finding those things a little more difficult in an area like this. But I’m trying to see it more as a challenge. I also want to help others who are having the same struggle as me if they live in Cairns or visit or live in a similar area where they feel out of place.
Something I really enjoy doing is vintage shopping or just vintage in general. So here’s a list of the vintage shops I enjoy frequenting. I may add some more to the list in the future, but here are the ones I’ve found so far:
The Other Shop
Location: 55 Lake Street Shop 25 @ Oceana Walk Arcade
This is a quirky vintage/secondhand clothing shop owned by the lovely Jules who specializes in reworking denim pieces into something fun and unique. Her shop is well-curated with pieces for every style, carrying everything from accessories, boots/shoes, jackets, graphic tees, and men’s wear. This is definitely my shop of choice when I’m looking for something unique to add to my wardrobe.
The first time I visited, I had a difficult time finding the shop. I had to ask another shop owner in the shopping arcade to help me find it. The sign is a little hard to find on the storefront, so if you can’t find it, don’t give up! But Jules was so nice and helpful. I ended up finding a mini cargo skirt that I wear constantly, a long denim skirt to try out the trend, and a vintage 90s/y2k chocolate brown velvet/sheer skirt. I don’t often find skirts that fit me well, so I definitely had to get all three. The prices were reasonable as well — more than what you would pay at an op-shop but less than what you would probably pay on Depop. So definitely worth visiting!
Vintage Seeker
Location: 62 Grafton Street Shop 11 @ Oceana Walk Arcade
While you’re in the area, another vintage/secondhand shop in the Oceana Walk Arcade is Vintage Seeker. This shop is more curated towards vintage and vintage-inspired clothing, like modern pieces that have a vintage silhouette or style. I’ve seen some amazing 70s pieces here and at a reasonable price, too! There is so much to look through, including a good selection of men’s wear as well. The racks are organized by size and category, making them easy to sift through. There is a good stock of fun earrings and vintage accessories such as unique belts and bags. I had heard so much about this shop before finally visiting.
The last time I stopped by I found a cream floral 80s vest, a great piece for layering in the tropics. Definitely stop by if you want to find some cool vintage pieces and have a bit of time to try things on.
Crackerbox Palace
Location: 228 Sheridan Street
This was the first vintage store/antique store that I came across in Cairns. It’s a little pricier than the last two shops I mentioned, but there are some rare gems here. When you first walk in, you’ll think you’ve just walked into an antique store, which is a plus if you love antiquing, but walk a little further and you’ll find a section filled with vintage gems. I’d say there’s about an equal amount of men’s and women’s clothing. So many textures and unique pieces to sift through. There are a few modern vintage-inspired pieces mixed in as well but mostly genuine vintage pieces. Lots of funky men’s shirts and so many amazing gowns and dresses.
The last time I stopped by I found a 70s blue and white striped shirt with a dagger collar as well as some 70s sewing patterns. I also enjoy looking at the vinyl in the back. My husband and I found an original 70s Fleetwood Mac Rumours album in great condition for a reasonable price. A great place to stop by and have a look if you also love antiques and old records.
bonitappétit 