Vintage is perhaps the most overused word in fashion, describing every old, worn-out item salable. It is this oversaturation of the term that has caused vintage to lose the prestige it once held. Mercy Vintage Now is doing its best to bring vintage back to its original glory. Mercy epitomizes the intended definition of vintage fashion: Characterized by excellence, maturity, and enduring appeal; classic.
At Mercy, you won’t find Fraggle Rock lunch boxes or pastel bridesmaid rejects. Owners, Karen and Jenny, are self-proclaimed treasure hunters constantly scouring estate sales, planning shopping expeditions, and buying quality merchandise from the public. They focus on wearable styles, not costumes; carrying couture designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Valentino, as well as offbeat cult classics, like 70s designer and distributor Bouncing Bertha’s Banana Blanket. Mercy carries a collection worthy of that famous L.A. vintage boutique frequented by celebrities.
Unlike many so-called vintage stores, Mercy takes care to invest in their merchandise to ensure its quality for customers. When Karen and Jenny notice a previously undetectable problem with a dress lining, they immediately pull it from the floor and brainstorm ways to repair it. Over the years, the duo has developed contacts that can assist them in matters such as this, even offering suggestions to customers for repairs and hard-to-clean merchandise, such as fur.
The ambiance of Mercy is just as alluring as the merchandise, featuring gold moldings, high ceilings, vintage busts and furniture, and a large assortment of fashion books to view. The inviting décor is a perfect match for the easy Piedmont Avenue location, all complimented by the friendly, attentive staff. Mercy Vintage Now carries everything you need to create a fantastic, wearable, head-to-toe, vintage look for any occasion.
Check out the slideshow to view some of the amazing finds available at Mercy Vintage Now. The slideshow was shot on location at Mercy. All items, including shoes and accessories, from Mercy.
MERCY vintage now
4188 Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, California 94611
Hours: 11-7 Monday to Saturday, 12-6 on Sundays
www.mercyvintage.com
Special thanks:
Photographer, digitalShe
Makeup artist, Pretty by Julianne
Model, Jennifer Lam
Wardrobe Stylist, Sophia of bsosorich
Mercy Vintage Now owners, Karen and Jenny
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