By Lady Sadie
Gently used clothing and shoes for men and women are both sustainable and trending. Lucky for us, downtown St. Pete’s ARTPool features local art, vintage fashion for men and women, handmade jewelry, vinyl records and indie culture fun. Look no further than here for Valentine’s Day or a special gift for a friend…or yourself. As a devotee of Netflix’s reimagined Addam’s Family series “Wednesday,” I giggled when I saw the shop window where owner Marianne Williams displays her art and pop culture stories. From sixties Twiggy style to eighties punk, you’ll find a style that suits your inner pop star. You can shop her Etsy store online, but you’ll miss the cool vibe of running your fingers through the rainbow fabrics. I’ve fallen in love with Crayon and poodle skirts. Since their opening in 2008, this eclectic Grand Central Shop at Central and 20th Street has grown. The beautiful retail showroom, designed by Archie Parrish in 1937, was the original Moon Plumbing Supply Store. Throughout the past 75 years the location has been the home to Saint Petersburg’s original Fred Astaire dance studio, a Polish restaurant, a church, and many other cool mom and pop businesses. They worked hard to create a special space that stayed true to its original architectural design and refinished historic elements including their unique art deco door handles.
Swing by to experience the must-see shop filled to the brim with amazing jewelry, kitschy handmade indie items as well as a huge stock of vintage clothing, vinyl records, boots, hats, sunglasses and treasures for guys and gals. Their retro home wares include funky vintage decor, crates, and crates of vinyl records and more. All items are unique, hand-picked, professionally cleaned and ready to rock and roll in their new fabulous life.
Their popular crafty fest markets are on hold, but check their Facebook for upcoming events and fundraisers including their annual Trashy Fashion Show. ARTPool Gallery is open noon-5pm and requests that you bring a reusable shopping bag. www.artpoolrules.com
