I like vintage clothing and had high expectations for this place. If you think F. Scott Fitzgerald was a snappy dresser, or aspire to the Ralph Lauren lifestyle, you might like this place. But if you, like me, are looking for something Elvis Presley, or Frank Sinatra would have worn, you won't have much to look at. And even if there is something to look at, the extremely dim lighting will likely discourage you. This place is either way overrated, or the East Coast vintage market is completing different than the West. read more

Accepting only cash or cheques, this place is truly period. Unlike most vintage stores, this place boasts reasonable prices for clothing that actually comes from the 20s, 30s, 60s, 70s, or any era. There you'll find ivy-league letter sweaters with tweed elbow patches, flapper dressed, World War I-era canteens and bags, mod sunglasses, and the like. Bobby himself is often dozing in his armchair, giving the place a peaceful low-key atmosphere. If you come here, be sure to check out the Bernard Toale gallery next door, which is another of the area's best finds. read more

The benefit was close to going off. Only 2 days left, and I wasn't ready. I should have been. I knew what I was thinking about doing for weeks, but my watch and my calander had it in for me, so I noticed when it was almost too late. This was a fancy shindig you understand. Tucking in your shirt just wasn't going to cut it. But where the hell am I suppose to shop when my fashion-eyes are stuck in the trends of the 1930-40's and I don't want to wear a costume? Bobby's I do NOT know South Boston very well. The adventure to get there did make me a little unsure, but I eventually stumbled upon Bobby's. One hurdle over, I found it... Next hurdle, is it what I need? Yes would put it mildly. A storm of antiquity and class engulf me as I open the doors. Shelves lined with suits, antiques, nick-nacks from a 1,000 journies all greeted me at the door. I began to shuffle in; glancing into chests, racks, shelves and display cases as I did. I did have a goal here, and luckly other Yelpers had left me notes. I needed to find a Monocle. Honest and true. I didn't want a costume piece, or make something as I could. I wanted the real thing. I wanted real. I wanted to know that 60 years ago, this was a piece of form and fashion, and it withstood the test of time. And after a few minutes milling around; looking here and there at the forgotten-but-found treasures that Bobby had compiled, I asked for the piece. A slightly bewildered look was returned, and a "I'm not sure we have that." What? No? Was my journey for nothing? Did I brave the Silverline, with only an idea of where I was going, to return sans eyepiece? No, since fortune was on my side, Bobby's instantanious memory guided one of the employees to a different case, with a covered tray, in a burried corner; and retreived the final Monocle in the house. I picked up a few additional items: a pipe tool (I had lost mine recently) and an antique ruler for my father. I left them on the counter, and flipped through a fantastic array of suits from years long before me. Two button, Three Button, Loops instead of buttons, Suits from across the world and across generations. Impressive to say the least. And what apeared to be a small doorway with a few shoes turned out to be a long, walk-in type of closet filled with handmade shoes from when that ment something. My time was short there, feeling that my usual attempts to find shoes of great class are lost, since I'm a size 15, and who the hell else would need shoes that big?! I left with my items, but the knowledge of where to shop in the future. Between the friendly and talkitive nature of Bobby himself to guide, entertain and inform; and the selection of classic, quality, rare and dependable clothing to chose from, I can't really see not checking here FIRST for all my shopping needs. read more

I had the privilege of meeting Bobby while he had Strutters near north station. I was a freshman in high school, and became so enamored with the spot, that I would hook school to hang there. It was not just the awesome, wall to wall, floor to ceiling vintage clothing, but Bobby himself. He is as real, funny and as knowledgeable of a guy about vintage clothes you will ever meet! If you are in Massachusetts and looking for top quality, authentic vintage attire and accessories of any type, you would be wasting your time going anywhere else. It's vintage nirvana. read more

Beautiful period wear. Often top dollar, but often things you'd never find anywhere else in perfect shape. They do take credit cards, I just charged there last week. read more

How amazing - I've worked in the South End for two years and only last week had the pleasure of shopping at Bobby's - WOW. I've traveled everywhere and this is by far THE best collection of men's vintage I've seen.... I picked up an incredible pair of motorcycle boots (for myself) and trippy hats and eyewear for my son - not to be missed! read more

This is no sad collection of formaldehydey mumus and poorly constructed polyester leisure pants. No, Bobby's is vintage done right. Every piece in this store is well-chosen and stylish. The store is thoughtfully organized and genuinely fun to be in. The interior is lush and manly - I felt that I should be puffing on a pipe and sipping a bourbon while I browsed the inventory. It is true that the selection of men's clothing is much larger than the women's. That said, the few women's pieces that are here are high quality. I have never seen a finer selection of vintage women's bathing suits. Bobby's is unquestionably the best "vintage" store in the Boston area. read more

Prepare to travel when you enter the door's of Bobby's. There are all sorts of pieces from different times and categories. Love this place for the unique selection. Bobby is incredible as well! read more

I walked into the store and immediately felt like there were eyes on me. The guy working in the store greeted my boyfriend and I in a very judgmental way. I'm Asian and my boyfriend is Caucasian and right from the start, I felt like I didn't belong. My boyfriend has been to Bobby's multiple times and loves the store but this time around he felt like the employees were watching us as we walked around the store. It was a very uncomfortable experience for the both of us. This store is located in BOSTON, a city known for its diversity. I can't believe there are people who are still so narrow-minded. My boyfriend always looks forward to going to Bobby's and he's always spoke so highly of this place. However, after this experience, he and I will never come back and will take our business elsewhere. read more

Came in Friday, April 17 around 5pm. Does anyone work here? Every person in the store looked like they were hanging out. Staff created a negative vibe in the air. No greeting or assistance, sad to say did not enjoy me first time in. read more

I discovered this store today--wow! The front of the store reminds me of a Ralph Loren Rugby store, but found it to be a refreshing difference inside. I whole-heartedly appreciated the many photos displayed of fashionably astute African-American men of the past. They have a great selection of bags and jeans. I would definitely recommend this place to Rock-a-billies, Swingers, and vintage aficionados. I bought a vintage California inspired 1950s tie for $15 bucks. I'm going back for the vintage Ralph Lauren overnight bag. read more

This place is well worth the trip. Mostly menswear, lots of amazing clothes and accessories from Long Ago. Being in the store feels like being in a movie dressing room, or back in time... It's wonderful!!!! You'll want to spend hours poking around. The staff is very nice as well. read more

By far, one of the best collection of vintage clothing under one roof. The GOOD: There is so much stuff in the store yet the place isn't cluttered. Vintage Levi's have made the journey from time and the west coast to Bobby's. Awesome selection of classy footwear. Trunks and trunks full of accessories (silk knit ties, cuff links, tie clips). Vintage bags, suitcases, and cameras. Point blank, it just doesn't get any classier than Bobby's The not so good: The prices are on the higher end for vintage but you won't get the quality of selection and authenticity from the lower end vintage shops. read more

Haven't been here in an age but I do remember smoking cigarettes and playing pool and shopping at the same time.

Amazing selection of vintage clothes for every price point. Walked out of here with some great vintage Levis.

I can't believe I've lived in town for eight years and had never been in this store until this afternoon, when I picked up a mint condition 60s leather jacket for a mere $60. Bobby himself was as cool and gracious as the other reviewers mentioned, and even offered to let me peruse his enormous storeroom in Lynn by appointment. I know I'll be spending a lot more time and money in his amazing shop. read more

A lot of the reviews of this place are glowing and rightfully so. Bobby from Boston is undoubtedly one of the coolest places to visit in the city. The problem is just that: it's cool to see, not so cool for shopping. Stepping in to the store feels like your stepping in to a different era. Bobby purchased all the fixtures in the store from an old-time menswear shop that was closing down. Definitely a cool atmosphere. For the most part all the clothing there is top-notch. (Can't speak for ladies) A lot of really decent Ivy-boom era clothes. A lot of really nice denim (including Jackets) and for the most part the shoes are top quality. (Have seen them trying to sneak 90's cole haan into the rack as "vintage" before) I really enjoy looking but I really don't enjoy buying at Bobby. I find the prices to be a bit on the ridiculous side. I know a lot about vintage clothes so this is coming from a trusted source. Although you usually can find good sale items. (The two things I have bought at bobby over the years: a varsity jacket on sale for $30 and a J. Press Tie on sale for $15) Overall, I think they ask a little too much. Another problem is the lack of price tags on a lot of the garment. Makes you feel as if they don't want you to buy anything. Lastly, although I've never dealt with Bobby himself, I find his staff to a bit rude. Not very friendly, and for the most part stand around looking at you funny while you browse. I definitely reccomend visiting Bobby from Boston for the experience. If you are actually looking to purchase Ivy-era vintage clothes I would reccomend you check out An Affordable Wardrobe, and Newton Street vintage. Two boston-based online shops who carry Trad at actually reasonable prices. read more

Such a great place to wander around in, Bobby has the best items found from all over and he has the best vibe. Love this store, it's the type of place that you think you've seen everything then you stumble upon some sunglasses that look like they are straight off of Jodi Foster in Taxi Driver. Don't pass this shopping experience up! read more

What a frickin fantastic place. I've only been once *tear* and I didn't buy anything, but the selection just rocks my world.

Unbelievable vintage finds. A fav for great priced leather boots!

Hablimentary my dear Watson, Bobby's from Boston has everything tweed to fit your needs. Need a headcoat? They probably have one here, it's like you've opened your strange Uncle Oswald's long lost chest...filled with vintage vests, ascots and bow ties...but lo wait, there's more...a pith helmet from WWI, supports and the trousers to match...what will you find around the corner? A few things to make that Jackie-O wannabe of a girlfriend happy for 10-15 minutes while you get your yob on... read more

This place is so one of a kind it's incredible. From the tweed jackets ($25 on sale) to the old school letterman jackets to the shoe collection and hats from the 20's you can find something for any guy on your gift list. I would tell my girlfriend to do all her shopping for me her if she listened to me, but since she doesn't I'll just have to shop here on my own. Seriously, the collection of styles in this place is still amazing everytime I go. read more

ive been to this place a few different times in hopes to find some great vintage/retro clothes or anything interesting, but ive never actually bought anything here. i will say that its probably one of the better all-around second-hand stores in boston, especially for men. they have a really good selection of items, they are very organized, and they sell good quality items. some of their items are priced a little high for what they are, but in general, its pretty reasonable. they have a really large selection of plaids, dress shirts, and coats...and they have quite a few random other items like belts, hats, shoes, etc. i wish they had more original items though...it all starts to look similar after spending about 15 minutes here. other than that though, its a really nice second-hand store--definitely one of the best in the area. read more

This wonderful shop never ceases to amaze me. Guaranteed to find something that you will like and sometimes, at a very reasonable price. It's also a great place to simply look around and explore the treasure trove of merchandise; there is always fun things hidden within. read more

Great little vintage store. Clothing is a little on the pricey side, so beware. Very unique items, great store to peruse.

Great selection of vintage clothes. Especially for menswear. Impressed by the wool coats and hats. Not impressed by employees eating greasy fast food in the selling area...not only does it smell, but it's kind of common sense not to risk getting your products dirty. read more

Every glowing review on here is completely accurate. The store is great. Bobby is great. The selection is amazing, and the prices are very reasonable. I got a beautiful coat and a vest, and I'll be back again and again. read more

Trying to keep this review short: The most expensive items here are the Western Shirts. I didn't know classic Western Shirts could cost $150. Oh well, now I do. However, his shoes and hat collections and prices are very, very reasonable. I bought my wedding shoes here - awesome 60's black oxfords with wooden soles. I bought an awesome businessman hat from the 60's here. I bought my friend an awesome Burberry wool cap from who knows when and wear. And the fact that they were all in amazing condition proves that Bobby can purchase. That's why Hollywood calls on him to clothe extras in movies - he's got a warehouse full of decade-appropriate attire cuz he knows how to buy. I should note - I think all of the employees that work for Bobby are fantastic. They deserve 5 stars too. And Bobby, when he's there, is a very nice guy. PS Also go to see: belts, cowboy boots, Baptist preacher uniforms, vintage women's gloves and hosiery, and 50's men's striped shirts. This isn't some Goodwill, don't expect 1989 Rec Dept shirts. This is for real. read more

I Actually saw Bobby and his crew at the Garment District a few days before Halloween. They were sifting through the dollar a pound, but I don't think they found anything. [I however found a 100% cashmere cardigan, and an American Apparel tshirt ; ) ] I've been to Bobby's once, and it was overall a pleasant experience. The women's selection is not very large, but there are bags/purses (mostly $20+).. scarves.. dresses..vests..jeans..etc etc. It's fun to look around in this fun store. read more

GREAT STUFF HERE! Wow, I found so many items I wanted and the condition was superb and well presented! Staff was very cordial, knowledgeable, and friendly. This will become a favorite for sure. read more

Six stars indeed! I am a vintage dealer in the NJ/NYC area, so from a dealer's point of view, I am so incredibly envious of THE absolute finest collection of men's vintage I have ever seen and touched anywhere on the planet. Bobby is a genius buyer and merchandiser; you will love the gentleman's club/Oak Room vibe and decor. As for the prices, I bought a black patent leather train case at Bobby's for $15 in August 2007. I was offered $150 while browsing through the October, 2007 Manhattan Vintage show. (NO WAY, it's mine)! The neophytes who claim its "expensive" don't understand quality vintage. This is not a thrift store. It is a period fashion museum where the absolutely wearable art is for sale at more than fair prices. Ladies, there are finds for you as well; all immaculate, in excellent condition, and quite inexpensive. Also, so many accessories are unisex. This is where upscale clothing manufacturers shop to steal designs, textiles and prints for reproduction. Vintage shoppers, take your vintage virgin friends here to school them on true quality and design so they can quit the made in china, cookie cutter, 1500% markup, mall shopping madness that is retail clothing today. Do check out this article: http://www.bostonphoenix.com/boston/news_features/hip_check/documents/02379851.htm read more

The RUDEST service I have ever experienced in my entire life and I have shopping in expensive/indie/vintage boutiques all over the globe. Yes the vintage section is good (not mind blowing...the women's section is kind of sparse and crappy) and the displays are gorgeous. HOWEVER, upon walking in we spied a tiny Letterman's jacket hanging on the way within arm's reach. We took it down to try on our stylish 5 year old. There was NO SIGN saying the item wasn't for sale. The rude hipster salesman with plaid cap and thick black rimmed glasses came up to us and basically yelled "THAT'S NOT FOR SALE." We apologized profusely and kept looking around. I shot a snap of one of the cool displays and he came up to me and said "WHO ARE YOU SHOOTING FOR." When I replied "um, myself," and said i had seen photos of the shop on many fashion blogs he said "Well they ASK to shoot BEFORE they take a picture." Again, there were no signs saying "No photography" or "Please ask before you shoot." I asked if i could shoot then he said yes I said THANK YOU and he then said "I don't like you talking to me if you keep it up I'm going to kick you out!" It was insane. It's like he decided he hated us upon the second we touched his precious merchandise and then proceeded to bully us until we left the store. Unfortunately my husband found two great jackets he would have bought had we not been treated so poorly! I would think retail 101 would be "excuse me, but who are shooting for," or "I'm sorry but that jacket isn't for sale" instead of rude barking. I hope that Bobby himself knows that his employees are so extraordinarily rude and actually COST him sale. I will not be back. read more

This store has really cool stuff, but their costumer service quality doesn't even earn them one star. I bought a watch several months ago as a present for my grandfather, a 200 dollar watch that after I bought it I realized it didn't work. I called them and they gave me the number of a place that repairs them for free when coming from Bobby's. The watchmen told me the watch had water damage and was going to cost 75 bucks from my pocket to repair it. I had not even given the watch to my grandpa so it was never used, it didnt make sense! So I called Bobby's and explained the situation, the guy told me that he couldn't help me cause he wasn't a manager and the person in charge wasn't there. What he did tell me was that water damage voids te warranty, nevermind that IT CAME LIKE THAT!!!! He said he was going to have the manager call me and after several weeks no one called. I called again and it was the same story, no one "in charge" is ever there. Or cant even call me to explained the situation or help me out. Eventually I got the number of "a manager" so I called and left a detailed well spoken message... Guess what??! She didn't even have the decency to call me back! My grandpa is leaving the country and I will not be able to give the present to him! At this point I just want my money back, but they don't do that or store credit either. I guess I'll pay the 75 bucks, but will never shop there again (which I used to do quiet frequently). What infuriates me is that no one with some saying has even apologized! I do not recommend buying anything there, especially watches. read more

Ok, so I suck at vintage shopping. I know this, and have no choice but to embrace this fact. If I have to pick through 100 items to find a gem, I usually pass. But after stalking a few fashion blogs from around the US, I decided to try my hand at vintage shopping. Bobby from Boston was my first stop. Alright, so I worked on Harrison Ave for TWO years, and still couldn't locate this shop. It's in this totally random alleyway, which caused me so much confusion. So I called the store, explained I was lost, and you want to know what this adorable sales associate did? He walked the distance to where I was, and walked me back to the store. I was in awe of how sweet he was. So for customer service alone, this place gets 10 stars. Now, the store itself is amazing. What you see walking around the store is well worth the trip. I'm a woman, but found so many cute vintage finds in the men's section. I found a fantastic leather jacket, but wasn't sure if I was willing to pony-up $95 for it. So I made my way over to the women's section and found these AMAZING FANTASTIC vintage Frye boots from the 70s. I did a little digging online and found it on eBay for $150. How much did I pay you ask? $65. They are in great condition, leather, and fit me perfectly. The sales associate asked me if I wanted to try them on a few times, but I was certain they would fit, and they DID. I am in love with them. I'm trying to figure out how to incorporate it in my wardrobe since they are totally work and school appropriate. I also found this amazing gray capelet, but it was $75, and I wasn't sure I'd truly wear it as often as I would need to to justify the price. It was beautiful though. The prices are pretty good, but for someone like me who only carries around cash, I only brought enough money for the boots. So, please come by the store if you have a free afternoon. The people who work here know their stuff. I'll be making a trip here next month again. P.S. They DO accept debit/credit cards in addition to cash. :) read more

I checked out the store afternoon hours on a week day. I was there for about 20 minutes, not one person out of the three working there offered to help me or even said hi. I could understand if it was busy, but there was only one other person in the store and the people working didn't even say hi to them. BAD VIBES. Too bad, by the reviews on Yelp i was hoping for an awesome experience. Poor Bobby. read more

Bobby's is a wonderful place...I was a regular client there for years when I worked in Boston. I then moved to Europe and wanted to continue to be a client. I called several times to speak personally to Bobby but a very indifferent and unconcerned clerk would not let me do so. I then wrote several emails asking for the items I wanted. A different clerk responded by saying that they will not do mail order. I spent a lot of money in that store over the years and feel that a loyal client should be given more consideration. read more

Bobby from Boston has an outstanding selection of mens vintage clothing. I live in W. Massachusetts and have been here 6x. I always come away with great sports jackets and shirts (50's ). I have spoken to Bobby several times and he is an extremely friendly and nice person. The sales staff has always been very helpful to me. On the other hand I don't come in expecting to be fawned over, coddled and treated as a 1 % person. Sometimes it helps to understand the context and setting. This is a retail vintage clothing store in a beautiful space. It is not the haut c. dept. at Bergdorf Goodman........Great place and I will be there this weekend. read more

can't help but hum some macklemore when up in this beast. i have found a bunch of accessories here. prices are pretty good for boston.

It's mecca for anyone interested in vintage clothing. A little of everything, though not all sizes for all people (understandably). The quality of merchandise is terrific. The setting is fun. The staff is helpful but unobtrusive. read more

excellent selection of vintage clothing. all sorts of great pieces, most of it preppy clothes that still look fashionable today. the quality is excellent (ie. this is not salvation army). its also a cool store that nicely set up, so check it out even if you're not looking to buy anything. read more