address: 1300 Queen Street East
phone number: 416-463-1254
hours: Monday – Everyday 11:30 – 6:30
methods of payment: Mastercard, Visa, Interac, cash
directions: Queen streetcar to Leslieville, between Leslie and Coxwell (closer to Leslie), North side of the street.

Gadabout is not just a vintage clothing store. It has everything you could imagine from the late 1800s to the late 1970s, including (but not limited to) art supplies, pillowcases, cosmetics, office supplies, ink wells, shaving supplies, turpentine, tiny little leather canoes, you name it. It can be overwhelming as you first walk in but Gadabout’s classification system could put any librarian to shame. Organized by object and then color, each drawer and cubby has its proper label, and, better yet, the owner, Victoria, knows where everything is, so if you don’t feel like looking but know exactly what you want, just ask. Or, if you don’t see what you are looking for, ask, because she has more than what’s in the store.
The prices are higher than what you’d find in, say, Kensington Market. Gadabout doesn’t do tee-shirts or denim and keeps to the classy and fancy. You’d be paying for items that are in very good condition, have been cleaned, and repairs have been done (if needed). Another exciting thing about this store is that the owner seeks out larger sizes (as well as shoes – up to size 10). Gadabout rented out clothing for Hairspray –so yes, they really do carry larger sizes (up to size 40) from pretty much every decade.
They have items like dresses by Oleg Cassini as well as Oscar De La Renta, and a large selection of Edwardian garments, which are usually difficult to find. (Again, ask. A lot of the older stuff isn’t on the floor because it’s too fragile.)
What are the prices like, you say? The average price for a cotton day dress is $65-$75; for a cocktail dress $120-$140. One 1930s brocade dress (with jacket) is $395. Some dresses cost up to $900. A pair of 1940s heels - $35, a pair of 1980s spikes - $20. They rent to prop and set for productions but do not rent for Halloween or Prom. It is also interesting to know that the owner will do house calls. If, for whatever reason, you want to sell some of your vintage, she will visit you. She is helpful, friendly and really knows her stuff. Even if you don’t buy anything, spending some time in Gadabout will improve your life.
Bonnie De Kuyper