Uptown Vintage Shopping

As the epicenter of all things mid-century modern, Palm Springs is the go-to for vintage shopping. The quality and selection are unbeatable—and believe me, I know. Whether you’re after that perfect Eames chair, a sequined ‘60s ball gown, or love the thrill of the hunt, Uptown vintage shopping in Palm Springs has it all.

Where to begin?  The Uptown Design District, along North Palm Canyon Drive, is one of the city’s vintage hot spots. Dozens of consignment, resale, and antique boutiques line the avenue. And it’s not just the items inside that are retro – many are housed in cool vintage buildings.

A La Mod is where I often begin, admiring (and sometimes buying) its collection of exquisite and hard-to-find, mid-century furnishings. From pristine burlwood side tables and polished brass lamps by Maurizio Tempestini to oil paintings and a killer steel, leather, and brass platform bed by Paolo Piva, this shop is a joy to visit.

Nearby, The Frippery brims with hip must-have retro wear for women and men. Jewelry sparkles at the counter, and the racks are filled with mod resort wear, Audrey Hepburn-like sheaths, pretty-in-pink cocktail dresses, bow ties, plaid sport coats, handbags, and shoes.

If you’re into mid-century glass, Bon Vivant is pure heaven. Its glass bottle collection is one of the best and largest, along with mid-century pottery, lamps, and collectibles. Iconic Atomic is great for vintage clothing—think Jackie O-style sheathes, dusters, and equally cool menswear—plus shell phones, bubble chairs, and other memorable accessories.

The Antique Collective is a classic antique shop with vintage items from the 18th to the mid-twentieth centuries. You’ll find it all: chandeliers, Royal Doulton figurines, retro Russel Wright dinnerware, ceramic owls by Howard Pierce, bar stools, rugs, sculptures, and knickknacks.

The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five is a great little complex of 13 chic shops inside a 1955 building designed by iconic mid-century architect E. Stewart Williams. “Interior decorators are our most frequent customers,” says complex co-owner Brandon Hoskins, an interior designer.

Uptown Vintage Shopping Collections

Gypsyland is as fun as its name implies. It’s packed with vintage kitsch, quality finds, furnishings, art, and a drop-dead collection of big, fluffy ‘50s cocktail dresses. Co-owner Wendy Woodward confessed that entertainment industry pros often shop here for fun cocktail wear during awards season.

Across the street, the granddaddy of Palm Springs’ vintage shops – Modern Way – is as compelling today for its indoor and outdoor furniture from the ‘50s to ‘70s as when it opened more than 20 years ago. Fabulous lawn chairs, ceramic-topped end tables, ‘50s bamboo bars, and a space age-style Warren Platner sofa are just the beginning. The new “Listening Room” displays vintage hi-fi and stereos.

But wait, there’s more…

N0rth Palm Springs Vintage Shopping

Since 1985, Boomerang’s friendly atmosphere and home-like settings have been the benchmark of vintage modern design. Visit their beautiful digs on North Palm Canyon Drive. They have 1,100 square feet of carefully and personally chosen top-quality classic modern furnishings, lighting, and accessories. Most are vintage from local estates, and some are new from the original manufacturers and craftspeople—investment quality in all price ranges. Whether you are a collector or seeking to mix unique items with your style, they have something for you.  Plus, they are happy to help with shipping.

Bustown Modern specializes in 20th-century vintage and designer fashion. Here, you will find one-of-a-kind vintage statement pieces and iconic designer clothing, from casual to couture. Shop online 24/7. Check the store for hours.

Melody Note Vintage

The owner, Meghan Smith, brings 35 years of experience in vintage and a passion for fit and garment construction. You can find anything from 1920s flapper to early 1990s skate punk and everything in between. She is happy to work with stylists to supply the film/theatre and select magazines and photographers for editorial projects.

Re[x] Haus Palm Springs 

Haus of Rex is the largest vintage market in Palm Springs, with over 11,000 square feet of showroom floor. They have an incredible collection of design furniture and objects. You will also find midcentury designer brands and outdoor furniture. For your decorative needs, they have hand-crafted rugs, a great collection of wall art, sculptures, and coffee table-style books.

Next to Re[x] Haus is Bridges Over Time. This design gallery offers a wide range of tables, seating, lighting, and accessories. Its spacious 7,000-square-foot space is generally open Thursday through Monday from 12 to 5 and by appointment anytime. It features unique works of furniture, art, and sculpture.

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Uptown Design District Guide