Barbie’s Shop

When I was 14, bondage gear seemed very cool, very risqué and a little forbidden. And so I went through my pseudo glam/​goth faze. Barbie’s shop was one of my favourite places to stare wide-​eyed at the array of unusual fashions. I am pretty white bread though, and I moved on. Still, out of nostalgia or something, I recently went back in.
There is a lot of kink wear and stripper shoes in the store. Most of the other patrons seemed to fall into the alternafashion category (I am not). The staff were alright, but didn’t seem that enthused to have me. Lots of vinyl and corsets, if that’s what you’re into. I didn’t get anything, both because I didn’t find much that appealed but also because the prices were very expensive. They know their target market though, because this store has been around for a long, long time.

If you’ve never been in to a alternative clothing store you’ll probably get a little excited about the finds, as I did when I was 14. Now that I am an experienced window shopper, and occasional money spender, I am bored by this store. An unexciting array of vinyl gear, minimal amounts of latex and some overpriced typically goth gear, the only reason I continue to return is the wonderful selection of shoes. Though, I must confess that I find myself simply browsing and then ordering what I like online. Barbie’s prices are unrealistic for never having my size, which means they’d have to order it online anyways. When you can get the very same thing cheaper, faster and delivered straight to your house, why bother paying a middleman?

I was first introduced to this store by a friend who performs in a burlesque troupe and while I personally can’t use anything you might find inside its still is a super cool store. Specializing in goth, punk and glam fashions it may not be for everyone but almost anyone would enjoy a browse. Find corsets, lingerie, and even some kink-​wear alongside costumes and high heals.
It’s very expensive but you get what you’re paying for.