It’s been a while since the NT have held their wonderful vintage clothing sale, which raises funds for their good work, and so this is their biggest year yet. Held for the first time at Abbotsford Convent, I popped down today to see the treasures presented.

As well as the usual good selection of quality contemporary fashion from Australian and overseas labels, there is also an enviable array of costume jewellery, quilts, cushions, table cloths and napkins, doileys, curtains, fabrics, buttons, trims and vintage hatboxes and suitcases. In the accessory departments there are ties, scarves bags, shoes.

Richard Nylon is guest starring with millinery and with lots of new styles, the tables will be topped up during the sale as space is created.

Open this weekend, don’t delay because the best goodies go quickly. Half price on everything Sunday afternoon.

Details:

What: The National Trust annual vintage and designer clothing (womenswear, menswear and childrenswear), accessories, fabric, haberdashery, trinkets and costume jewellery sale.
When: Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th March, 10am to 4pm.
Where: Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers Street, Abbotsford. Park across the road and ask at the gate for directions if you don’t see the signs.
Entry: gold coin. All funds raised support Como House.
More information: at the National Trust site.

Here are some snaps of what’s available: my favourites are the circa 1960 Vivier for Dior stilettoes, excellent condition in their original box for only $100 and one of the more expensive things at the sale (but worth so much more). Plus the 1930s jodhpurs ($20 for a lucky someone) and some very nice drawn threadwork tablecloths ($10! So much hand-embroidery).

Prices start at 50cents. I’m tempted to go back for the silk metallic lame’ 1920s shoes with Louis heel, another bargain at only $20 (see photo below) or the silk ’60s Jacqmar scarf, only $30.