It caught my attention as I took a visual inventory of the jam-packed racks. In a mad dash, I went right for it. The red and white striped polyester fabric was a sassy halter dress and matching jacket. It screamed “hip and with it.” OK. So, maybe it said something more like “hip and with it 30 years ago.”
I can get dangerous in a place like The Orange Peel. If I’m not careful, I could end up bringing home a whole new-but-used wardrobe, with styles an illustration of the past six decades.
I love the bright orange walls of this vintage consignment shop in Fondren. They match the orange leather chair that sits by the sales counter. I soak up the tantalizing aroma that indicates “vintage” and “cool” are nearby. I love that smell because I know soon I’ll be strolling through bits and pieces of the past.
I’m determined to find my treasure inside the intriguing inventory: the poster of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” cover art; a couple of dresses, not vintage, but cute nonetheless; pieces for my mom’s vintage jewelry collection in the big glass case.
It is almost closing time. I go back to the red outfit, willing myself to the next rack filled with silky, lacey nightgowns. These soft, fancy gowns lead my thoughts to Woodbury Drive, 4 years old at MaMaw’s house. I’d twirl and nestle into the smooth feel of each fancy costume. MaMaw took Polaroid snapshots as I posed, with her finger over part of the viewfinder, adding a little character to the developed picture.
I grab the pinkest nightgown on the rack as I head for the register.
Previous Comments
Heard a lot of good things about that place. Where is it again?
#84957 | Author: LatashaWillis | Date: Aug 16 2007
LW, it’s right next to the Fondren Beverage Emporium and Walker’s is on the other side… on State Street. I love the Orange Peel, it’s been too long since I’ve been shopping there!
#84958 | Author: music chick | Date: Aug 17 2007
The Orange Peel has awesome new/used clothing at unbelievable prices. I got a great dress at the last minute, at an incredible price. Kristen and her staff are the best. 😉
#84959 | Author: SELock | Date: Aug 23 2007
The Mississippi Free Press produced this story through the MFP Solutions Lab, supported by the Solutions Journalism Network. This series digs into Mississippi’s systemic issues and sheds light on responses to them in other communities. Beyond just reporting on problems, these stories interrogate their causes and inspect potential solutions.