As much as I love to explore new cities, for me no trip is complete without a thorough investigation of the best places to shop.  I can’t help it — it’s just how I am.  I do judge a city partially on its materialistic merits.

I found my Austin vintage mecca in Feathers, but other than clothing, I really adore shopping for odd little things. Relics. Unusual curiosities. I blame this partially on my grandmother, who I used to visit during the school holidays. On particularly rainy or restless days, she would declare that it was time to go “hunting for treasures”, & she & I would dive excitedly into the overflowing bureaus, jars & drawers around her house. I would always come away with something fantastic, like a blue & green ring dotted with rhinestones or a gaudy teaspoon which somehow spoke to my young self.  I have a taste for these things.  I know where the yummies are to be found.

So please take it on good authority that no trip to Austin is complete without a visit to Uncommon Objects on South Congress.  It is not just one of my favorite stores in Austin, it is one of my favorite shops period.  It is absolutely bursting at the seams with deliciousness.  From curious old books to incredible occult artifacts, luminous collections of colored glass & bizarre toys, it is a delight to peruse.

I spent the better part of an hour digging around Uncommon Objects on Wednesday, & was so overwhelmed that I just had to take these pictures & share them with you.  I hope you enjoy them as much as I loved taking them!

Words and photos by Gala Darling