Location: 12 South Court Street
Hours: 11a.m.- 6p.m. daily. Vintage section is closed randomly for cleaning.
Price: Moderate
Ik-factor: 3.5
In preparation for the Halloween festivities I am sure many if not most OU students have entered Banana Road. I enjoy walking past this Court Street gem almost every day on my way to class. The allure stems from its intriguing assortment of offbeat threads. The display window is an amusing sight that bursts with character- the kind of character that both frightens and intrigues. With their seemingly endless supply of Rocky Horror inspired man lingerie, it could easily be dubbed the drag-queen supply center of Athens. The colossal array of tights, the interesting variety of wigs and a playful assortment of fake eyelashes always catch my fancy around Halloween. However, unless the weekend calls for a guise dedicated to one of the always-original variations of pimps and hoes theme party, I usually don't go in. That was until I realized that this store is home to a fabulous collection of vintage wear.
More costume inspired than other vintage stores in the area, this is a place for a seasoned fashionista who's not afraid to try something new and also not afraid to rummage through some dud duds. Many of the clothes are too over the top for typical wear. But, if you’re looking for a leopard print jacket or the perfect pair of floral print pumps, you definitely want to peruse the racks of this spiffy shop.
The vintage collection here is a few notches up above the typical thrift store. One of my favorite aspects of this store is the way they organize their eclectic collection. Simply, there is order to their madness. Arranged by decade (20's-80's) they do a pretty good job of making hunting through the racks easy. If you still can't find what you're looking for the friendly and creative staff is there to give you some helpful advice and point you in the right direction. They have a large selection of scarves, hats and shoes although they are lacking a bit in other accessories. Their prices are reasonable but keep in mind that the clothes here are going to cost you more than at a regular thrift store. But it is usually worth it.
Overall I would give BananaRoad a B+. It has a fun, unique atmosphere and the clothes are always exciting. Just come in with an open mind and you might leave with a fantastic find.
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3 comments:
I am glad to see that someone is blogging about the hidden treasures you can find in Athens. I have been surprised at what I have found when I wonder into some of the offbeat shops in town. but I have never been to this one, I will definitely check it out, keep the tips coming!
I love that you included a link to their website because, despite several ventures into Banana Road, I never knew or would have imagined they'd be online. I also liked the service information at the beginning, that's really helpful. I'm a little confused though, because in your closing, you refer to it as Court Street Costumes. As a play on words, that might throw-off some who don't know the store well enough. Overall, good job and great concept.
I'm glad that someone finally approached the idea of shopping at this store for clothes other than Halloween costumes- I've considered doing this myself, so this makes me feel a little less strange.
Also- I like your rating system! And I have to agree with the 3.5 rating you gave BananaRoad. Good work :)
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