Cat's Pajamas

My pretties

I recently attended The Cat's Pajamas vintage show held at The Hemmens Cultural center. This year I went to the 1st show on a Friday instead of the 2nd show on a Saturday to figure out which I would prefer. Here is my review on the event.

What I liked -

The Hemmens Cultural center surrounding area is interesting and very beautiful. There's an ice skating rink, a cool looking library, shops down the street and a nice view of the Fox river.
Plenty of free parking areas.

Inside the center they have great cafe food, free art gallery, plenty of rest areas & an available ATM.

A map is handed at the door with the vendors information. If you like their merchandise you can visit them.

The vendors are spaced out and not shoved together.
Some racks are organized by color, era, or article of clothing.
The second floor has makeshift dressing rooms with a mirror.

Many vendors are willing to bargain or do bundles.

Two day shows...attend one or both.
Friday show is held later in the evening 5-10pm, so it wasn't very full. There is a best dressed contest, cocktail bar and live music. Beautiful vintage clothes & a cocktail is a nice way to spend a Friday evening.

Saturday show 10-5pm Entry fee is less. It will be packed, but not uncomfortable. They have beauty demonstrations, contests and play retro music. The clothing racks will be easier to shop from since the Friday night shoppers have lighten the load. The first floor will have natural light coming through the large windows to brighten up the floor. Being the last day, vendors may give you a better deal.

Lots and lots of clothes from every era!

What I didn't like -

Friday show entry fee will cost more. Being the first day of the show, you may not get as many deals. It's an evening show, so there won't be any natural light to help out in the dark corners. The corner vendors need more light.

Saturday shows I noticed the vendors packing up earlier than expected, I felt rushed.

Bins are packed and placed on top of each other.

Vendors pack the racks so tight that you're almost too scared to pull something out for viewing and risk tearing it.

Some vendors didn't price or check for missing tags.

The storage room used as dressing room could use a curtain in front of door. Many people mistakenly opened the door and embarrassed some ladies.

Helpful tips:

Wear something that is easy to remove for trying on clothes.
Know your measurements & bring a measuring tape if you don't want to try anything on.

Make a shopping list & place your must haves on the top, so you won't forget.

Set a budget. It's very easy to get carried away. 

Bring cash and avoid using ATM with fees.
Check items thoroughly for holes, stains, missing buttons,etc.. items cannot be returned.

Try to park close by for easy drop off of your vintage finds & go back for more!

I've been to both shows on separate occasions and I personally like attending the Saturday show. I like shopping on the first floor early in the morning with natural light coming through the large windows. It helps to get a closer look at the jewelry or clothes. Saturday morning surrounded by gorgeous clothes and people who share your love for vintage is a nice way to spend the day.

The vendors are kind and helpful at finding you that perfect outfit. Don't let some of the prices scare you away, there are deals to be found. Some items items are one of a kind and it may be worth the price. It's up to you to figure out if the item is worth the price or not.  I fell in love with a certain dress, but it had ink stains and about a dozen holes. Nevertheless, I still wanted it even a little more when the vendor cut me a tiny deal. I thought about for a couple of minutes and then I chose to walk away. I didn't regret it, further down the aisle, I spent the money on two wide brim hats and shoes instead of one dress!

The Cat's Pajamas has many unique and exquisite jewels to add some sparkle to your outfit. The clothing and accessories are in abundance, it cuts your driving time from shop to shop. It's a great vintage show, that will have gasping at the racks and racks of clothing. You will be hooked right then and there. The Cat's Pajamas is truly the Cat's Meow...You knew that was coming.