Thrifting at the Rose Bowl Flea Market

This trip to the Rose Bowl flea market was unique in the fact that I went with my husband, who has no knowledge of vintage or thrifting. To say I was a bit nervous was an understatement. I wasn't sure how he would react, or if he would be a bored mess after only half an hour of walking up and down aisles of vendors. 

When we pulled up to the parking lot he receive his first lesson in thrifting vintage, it's popular.

Everyone and their mother thrifts now, especially at the Rose Bowl. This specific venue is held only once a month, so you can bet it was crowded. Aaron's mouth dropped open when we pulled up and had to wait in line to be directed to an open grass field to park, you know, because the parking lot was full. 

Walking to the venue was a bit of an ordeal because my Fibro can creep up on me at any time, and was paranoid my hip would start hurting. 

Thankfully it didn't and I walked a large part of the venue like a boss.

The Rose Bowl has EVERY genre for vintage lovers. You can shop clothes, furniture, housewares and home decor. All of the vendors are very well organized into sections, so if you're only looking for one specific genre you can look at a map and shop what you re looking for.

Here are a few of my favorite things to shop for:

Colorful books to read or decorate with.

Small kitchy items to create a vignette.

Hard to find holiday decor like vintage Santas.

Any kind of specialty item with a specific name on it. (State, city or town)

Vintage costume jewelry.

Furniture and display items.

Anything colorful and happy.

People watching is also a great past time at the flea.
Hey man, nice stache.

To tell you the truth I don't really spend a lot of money at the flea market. I tend to walk the aisles and look for inspiration. I love to take pictures, sip on a cuppa joe and enjoy all of the love and work others put into their space.

If you're thinking about heading to the flea market here are a few tips.
1. Wear comfy shoes.
2. Bring sunblock. (I didn't and was very toasty when I got home)
3. Bring cash, and then add another $20. You never know, and the ATM the venue provides charge a big fee.
4. Bring a large tote or cart to carry your purchases.
5. Wear sunglasses
6. Dress in layers

I enjoyed sharing my passion for vintage with the hubs.
We will definitely being going back soon.