My Greatest Accidental Treasure Hunt

While vintage shopping aficionado remains my self-proclaimed, semi-official title, that could quickly veer towards souvenir hoarder within a matter of gas miles. I’m a known sucker for some good symbolism and with a deadly combination of a sentimental heart, I’m not sure I have much more wall and/or closet space for one more thing.

While spending a summer in the great land of blokes and bullocks, I did my best to reign in my shopaholic tendencies and decided to hold out for the big one. The one legendary purchase that would put all the rest to shame.

This is a story of girl meets coat, a beautiful and spontaneous love story, rightfully told only to the tune of Raspberry Beret.

This story starts at Portobello Market tucked in the heart of Notting Hill and will likely end in the forefront of my will. Behold, the vintage Burberry trench that stole my heart! From across the busy street of Saturday market-goers, it was love at first sight. With the hemline falling just right, in my size, and of course lined to perfection, our courtship can be described as nothing short of serendipity.

What better memento for a summer in London spent studying fashion than a trench by an iconic British brand? Not only does vintage shopping promote sustainability and create a business model for my noted vice of regifting, but it also serves as the longest running treasure hunt for the quality inclined. Pieces earned through scavenge and passport stamps, pieces with stories and lifetimes of their own, and pieces tied to characters, places, and sights worth not forgetting about.

I digress, but scroll a little further to see our first of many dates till death do us part. I may be running out of closet space, but this gem was worth every penny.