Ragtime Vintage Clothing

3.5 star rating
3 reviews
Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
No
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3 reviews in English

  • Review from Hannah V.

    • 1 friend
    • 22 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    4.0 star rating
    7/6/2011

    Reviews of Ragtime seem pretty mixed, but I can only guess that is because of differing expectations by patrons. I have never found the staff to be rude but then I also don't shop socially, especially in the case of thrifting; I shop with a mission. If anything the staff are more attentive than I'd like, but I'm also the sort of person who likes to be ignored in stores. Even more so when on a mission. For the record, that mission is to keep my aging, schlumpy self decently clothed, often in quasi-profession settings, while on a student/non-profit budget. And that is why shopping for me isn't a social experience.

    I've had good luck while shopping here, so I might be biased. I've gone twice to get specific items (winter coat upon moving to Ottawa and later in search of pre-Nike buyout Doc Martens) and left with what I wanted. That said, the rule of thrifting it understanding that it takes time and repeated combing of racks to find gems. The selection does include some basics, but definitely runs towards costumes, including accessories. There is also a decent military surplus section in the back.

    As has been stated by previous reviewers, this is a vintage clothing store, not a charity shop. The prices are going to reflect the fact that someone has taken the time to source and quality control all the items in shop. You're paying a markup for that time, just like you pay a markup to have food prepared or drinks mixed.

  • Review from Zoe S.

    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Ottawa, ON

    3.0 star rating
    1/26/2012

    The upside:
    - Massive selection of vintage stuff
    - Massive selection of new stuff that looks vintage (this could be a 'con' for some)
    - Fun old timey atmosphere
    - Friendly staff
    - Close enough to downtown, and easy to stop

    The downside:
    - Some of the "vintage" stuff is just crappy, or missing stuff
    - Very musty smell in the store
    - Lighting could be better
    - Although the owners are very nice they always find a way to bring up their deceased daughter which does not really make for a fun shopping experience

    Everyone should give it a try at least once!

  • Review from Amanda D.

    • 21 friends
    • 314 reviews

    Ottawa, ON

    4.0 star rating
    10/16/2008 1 photo

    This is one of the most unique vintage shops in Ottawa. When you come in, you're hit with an eyeful of floor to ceiling clothing, weird kitschy knickknacks and accessories, and the authentic smell of old clothes.

    Casual vintage shoppers can usually find a jacket, shirt, boots or accessory to add to their wardrobe. Hardcore vintage shoppers will love the authentic and massive selection of old clothing, accessories and costumes. There's about as much clothing for men as women, and there's also a huge selection of costumes and vintage tuxedos that customers can rent.

    The prices are definitely higher than Value Village, but you're also investing in a well-made classic piece of clothing that can add to your style for years. The staff is pretty laid back and more than willing to help customers, but they usually have to be approached before they'll help you, which I like.

    This store may not be for everyone because sometimes the selection can border on costumey rather than practical. Regardless, this would be the first place I'd take a visiting friend if they were looking for a great vintage shop in Ottawa.

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