What’s this place like?

Lady Jane B. Boutique is small (roughly the size of a large walk-in closet) and packed from end to end, wall to wall. After being greeted by an assortment of ’50s and ’60s sunglasses as well as funkily patterned headbands and Dorthey-esque high heels in the window, it’s pretty difficult to not enter. To call it eccentric might just be an understatement. Upon entering, you can find racks of vintage clothes handpicked or handmade by the owner, whom is just as funky and eccentric as the clothes: complete with ’70s wispy bangs and a variety of eras represented in her daily outfits. She is always there and ready to offer you ways to pair accessories or wear something in multiple styles. I once witnessed her spend roughly ten minutes helping a woman stylize some pieces she was purchasing and snap a few pictures both with the woman and of the woman and her son, whom wondered around the store with the same curiosity that I find myself having each time I enter. It feels like being propelled back into different decades as told through your aunt’s collection of keep sakes, complete with black and white photos and old suitcases on the walls. The store’s collection features mostly tops and matches the owner’s flair for every era of the twentieth century: ’80s sequined tops, ’40s dresses, late ’60s blouses, ’70s jumpsuits. The store is remarkably warm, both in temperature and energy.

So, how do I get there?

While Lady Jane is not off the beaten path, I wouldn’t say its in the most popular district of Florence, either. It’s located in the Chiavi neighborhood, down the street from the Sant’Ambrogio Church and its accompanying small piazza, not far from the Sant’Ambrogio market. If you go during the evening, you’ll likely hear a jazz trio in front of the church, which I recommend checking out before or after you shop; the vintage style of music pairs nicely with the clothing. If you go during the afternoon, I recommend stopping at the market first (as the market closes early) to snag some fresh, local produce and walk amongst the locals.

Will I be breaking the bank?

That’s the best part. While you may be used to walking into a vintage shop (both in America and abroad) that features well crafted items and feeling discouraged when you see the price tag, that will not be the case here. Blouses are typically priced around €30, dresses €50, accessories €15 or less. Notably, the handmade items are not necessarily more expensive. You can own something no one else has ever owned or something that was once owned 5 decades ago for a similar, reasonable price. Not to mention, there’s always a sales rack with even better deals and it’s updated pretty regularly. I went in a week after the first time I went and saw some new items in the sale section.

What makes it so different from other shops in the area?

This boutique is different because it isn’t “Goodwill” vintage nor is it designer brand vintage. It’s extremely accessible fashion – recycled and/or homemade have you – that is truly fashionable. You’ll find clothing that is special and made well and makes you feel like you’re stepping back into a twentieth century decade (take your pick of which one – or mix & match).  You can add some vintage flair with a pair of ’50s pinup sunglasses or roaring ’20s earrings. Or maybe get a ’70s dress and feel yourself fully pulled back into nostalgia. There’s fun colors, there’s great neutrals, and you’ll get a good deal without sacrificing quality.

What’re the hours like? 

The only con I’ve found of the shop: its hours. I’ve found it to be very hit or miss, so I finally looked them up. The hours are not very consistent. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday the store is open 3 PM to 8:30 PM, Friday 1:30 PM to 8 PM, and Saturday 3 PM to 8 PM. It is closed both Tuesdays and Sundays. I’m hoping I can persuade the owner to switch out a weekday for Sunday.

 

When’s the best time to go? 

There’s really no bad time. The great thing about boutiques that are not neighbored by other clothing shops is they tend to be pretty slow often. I’ve found that closer to when it opens on the weekdays tends to be less crowded, while closer to closing is likely to have more people. It’s so small though, that only a few people in the store can feel like too many. The store is warm on its own and the extra body heat only makes it warmer. You’ll find it doesn’t both you too much, though, sifting through time, colors, and patterns.