Push Pin

Like the two-up games once held at the rear of Push Pin Boutique’s historic housing, the vintage business was a gamble that paid off.

Owner and operator Clare Matthews walked past the elegant building for years and promised herself she’d start something inside its heritage walls. In 2008, she took the plunge and still sells 1940s, ‘50s and ‘60s vintage dresses to ladies from near and far.

Matthews takes full advantage of the gorgeous window arches, using them to display selections of seasonal day and evening attire that are sourced from parts of Australia and around the world.

While dresses are the main focus, accessories including shoes, handbags and jewellery line the cabinets and shelves. A quick check of the tags will highlight that most of the jewellery is locally made.

Despite the quick sale rate of items, those with a keen eye for frocks have an excellent chance of walking away satisfied, as stock is replenished daily. And while Matthews is content with her choice to open a vintage store, she’s adamant her shop is the most photographed building in Adelaide. She’d only need to charge one dollar a snap to increase her fortunes.