Head straight down Stuart Street from The Octagon and you’ll happen upon Two Squirrels Vintage Emporium. Inside you’ll find clothing, accessories, home goods and other treasured objects that bring together past and present fashion, craftsmanship and NZ made goods.

One hundred percent silk blouses, vintage wool jumpers, cosy overcoats, patterned pants and one of a kind dresses populate the racks. Each vintage item is carefully sourced for a collection that rivals even the most modern designer drops.

Interspersed between the vintage numbers are handmade earrings, necklaces, eye wear, hair accessories, scarves, tea towels and so much more. Two Squirrels also stocks McKinley’s shoes (handmade pairs created just down the road), Lazybones headbands and bows and Lamington’s merino socks which are also produced in New Zealand.

Owners, Warren and Vanessa, started out as Tête-à-Tête Vintage Clothing in Christchurch’s Shand’s Emporium. After initial success they opened another Christchurch store and christened it ‘Two Squirrels’.  They moved to Dunedin when they lost both shops in the earthquakes but didn’t give up on their passion for vintage.

Starting down a path full of pop ups and new locations, they eventually settled into their Stuart Street storefront that is warm and welcoming. The shop offers a spacious changing area so you can try before you buy, and is a treat to simply explore.

Fifteen years on and Warren and Vanessa clearly have a knack for sourcing special things new and old that can’t be found just anywhere. They’ll tell you these items simply find them but either way, Two Squirrels is one spot you don’t want to miss.