Express your creativity through vintage style at downtown Lewisburg’s newest women’s clothing boutique, Vintage 102. Officially opening its doors on Friday, May 6th (first Friday), this boutique offers a metro city feel with modern track lighting, black walls, a spacious display of dresses, beautiful dressing rooms, a large variety of shoes, hats, gloves, scarves, purses, and other vintage accessories mostly from the 1930-70’s.

Born and raised in the United Kingdom, shop owner Claire Merrett has loved buying and wearing vintage clothing since she was a teenager. She was planning to open a shop in the UK but this dream was put on hold during her family’s move to Lewisburg a few years ago. When Claire saw the available space at 102 W. Washington Street, which is located between Wolf Creek Gallery and Aggies Gift Shop, she decided to follow her dream and go for it.

Claire handpicks every item in the shop. She travels the United States to view collections and also sources clothing from England. She tells us that looking for good quality vintage clothing is like hunting for buried treasure. She is always prepared to travel long distances, sometimes at short notice, and she plans to continue making several major buying trips each year.

“All the clothing in the store is unique and I aim to sell only the best quality clothing I can find. The stock is continually changing and whilst I hope to maintain a good range of both casual and formal wear it very much depends on what I’ve been able to source.” – Claire Merrett, owner at Vintage 102.

Many of the items at Vintage 102 have experienced interesting times. Some are from designers who were the celebrity designers of their day, others are from private collections and were designed and sewn specifically for the owner.

Some items are highly sought after by collectors. There are other items that were worn and enjoyed and probably have more interesting stories to tell.

While all the clothing is genuinely vintage (vintage clothing is defined as clothing over 20 years old) surprisingly some items are as new, unworn and with all of their original packaging. Most vintage clothing is secondhand and Claire spends a considerable amount of time and effort in making sure all items are in as good condition as they can possibly be.

“Vintage 102 is a beautiful shop that will fit nicely in downtown Lewisburg and appeal to its eccentric residents and trendsetters alike.” – Jackie Gioia.

This unique boutique is your source for authentic vintage apparel and accessories. Don’t miss the “Opening Bash” on Friday, May 6th during First Friday! Claire would like to give a “BIG thank you” to everyone that’s helped her along the way, in particular: Luke Bair, Nathaniel Kline and Jimmy Heron. Summer hours are Monday-Saturday from 10am-5pm. A website is coming soon and you can follow Vintage 102 on facebook and instagram. For more information, stop in the boutique or call 304-992-1578 or email vintage102@icloud.com.

– Hashtag Lewisburg, #77. May 2016.