A hole-in-the-wall shop on 9th St that sells so many different trinkets! It is packed with things to buy (vague, I know, but I truly don't know how else to describe it haha). Service was nice: the cashier offered to keep our bags at the front since there's not much room in the store & also hold onto our drinks. Pretty good value. Nice place to get souvenirs for out-of-town guests. 9/10 would recommend! read more

Vaguely Reminiscent - Cute trinkets - Women's Clothing Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Great store packed with a great variety of clothes and accessories I always find a gem there and at reasonable prices Great for fun gifts as well' read more

very unpleasant and judgmental environment my friend and i went into vaguely reminiscent and looked around for around 7 minutes, and then thanked who we assume was the owner and left empty handed. we then were followed to a nearby restaurant and as we were ordering we were approached and accused of shoplifting a ring. we explained that we had not taken it and she reluctantly left. minutes later she returned force us to accept her apology and explained the ring had fallen. this experience felt very ageist as we are teenagers and she was stereotyping us and assuming bad intent. read more

Cool, fun stuff in a tiny, tiny space on 9th street. Over the years we've bought items such as jewelry, gifts, socks, and lightswitch plates. The space is tiny and cram packed with stuff, so it doesn't accommodate big groups well. Pop in even if you don't need anything. You'll find at least something that will make you smile. read more

Buyer beware! I bought a scarf here that had a large stitched label on it that said "cashmere." When I took it home and looked at the tag, it said made in China and that it is actually made from acrylic and viscose, which is made with a chemical process that is toxic to workers who make it and the environment. When I took it back to return, one of the women working there insulted me and said "no one in their right mind would think this is really cashmere for the price we sell it at." They at least gave me store credit. This store sells crap from China that you can get from Amazon at a high mark up. Do not shop here. read more

We stumbled on this little gem of a store on a lovely quiet Sunday afternoon. We were looking for something unusual to remember our quick little North Carolina vacation with, and also a gift for our hosts. I bought a necklace from which dangled a tiny fork and spoon - how adorable was that! I've worn it several times since and always get comments on it. For our hosts, we bought a very unusual bird feeder since they are major birders and it looked perfect in their yard. Yes, the space is a bit cramped, so be careful that you don't knock down something if you've got a big purse (or butt). read more

It's definitely kind of pricey, but it's an excellent place to get gifts (or cute, pretty accessories for yourself). I've gotten random things here for friends, like a cat sharpener (you stick the pencil in its anus, and shavings come out its mouth :x), pretty lotus candles and pillboxes, little fragile glass animals, handbags, headbands, and other whimsical things that are conveniently all in one place. The jewelry here is lovely, by the way. :) And the cards. They also gift-wrap, which is hugely helpful and awesome because their paper (and bags) are just as pretty as their products. read more

Absolutely lovely store on Ninth street, can't believe I've been walking past it all this time. Having read many positive reviews on Yelp I decided to wander in with a friend; as we were two of three people in the store the shopkeepers spent a lot of time with us explaining the items that were currently included in the Winter Sale. Much cute merchandise to be found here, from notebooks to bookbags, from clocks to clothes, little stuffed animals and gifts and novelty items galore. I bought a nice gray scarf for $8 though I had my eye on a purse with a French motif that turned into a backpack until I realized it was $60, so be warned: not all the prices are low. Also, since the store was so small, I felt that it was hard to have a private conversation, so expect the store helpers to chime in during your conversations. In any case, fun location to check out and browse through. read more

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Loveddddd this local store, it's products, the vibe + everyone working there were super helpful. I was traveling through Durham and came across this fabulous store. Unique gifts and presents (for yourself)....enjoy!!! read more

Local business - Yay. Unfriendly - Boo. Selling imported goods that could just as easily be items created by local crafters (albeit at higher cost) - Boo. Cheap silly gifts (albeit made abroad and thus perhaps not completely sustainable or whatnot) - Yay. A very nice older lady checked me out and the complimentary gift wrapping in their bag is quite nice, as Liana L. mentioned, but I wished I'd had the balls to bail on the purchase when I was already midway through paying for it because a worker who I came to realize was the owner was very rude and abrasive to me while I was in line to pay. Dislike giving my money to businesses that don't treat their customers well. Lesson learned. read more

I know this store is locally owned so I try to go here to buy little gifts for my friends and relatives. When I want to round out that birthday package for my mom, I stop in here for a scarf or some earrings or a coin purse that says "I'm saving up for more electro-shock therapy". You know, the essentials. It's been mentioned that the store is small and they have a lot of merch in a small space but the employees are CRAZY with their anti-cell phone policy. Twice I have been told to get off my phone while in the store. (Yes, I should have remembered the second time but someone called me.) And not while I was trying to pay for something either, just while browsing. It's their store and they can do what they want but it was a real turn off. And thus the 2 star rating. I don't need to spend money to be reprimanded. As another coin purse they sell says: "I can call my mother for that". read more

I love their stuff and have been going on and off for years, but I think this was my last visit. I am so over being chased around the store and nattered at by the manager/owner who is always there. the rest of the staff is fantastic, but she is just so difficult. Someone in my neighborhood thought she was being racially profiled in the store because of how difficult the manager is, but it turns out that is just how she treats all people! Luckily in Durham there are other places to get cool little gifts and things so I'm going to learn my lesson and spend my money there unless I hear they have had a staff change! read more

This shop has a nice variety of jewelry, tchotchkes, clothes, accessories, etc. It is a good place to find a gift - some of the clothes are a bit spendy for what they are (i.e. t-shirt knit skirt $72 and like that). But shopping there is fairly unpleasant - I've been there about 5 times, and there is usually a lot of pressure to "let me start a dressing room" and "hey, just put your purse behind the counter, so you can relax". That's just all code for "we're super suspicious and treat you like teenagers who may shoplift at any moment". The owner is the most aggressive and I have left because of her. The others are a little more friendly, but the continuous heckling is very tedious. I'm an adult and I'd like to be treated as one. It's a whimsical store with cool stuff - but the staff kind of sucks all the enjoyment out of shopping there. read more

Happy New Year!!!! And for my last review of the year... wandered into Vaguely Reminiscent to buy a hostess gift for the gal that was doing tonight's NYE get-together. Appropriately, VR has a little bit of everything for folks with a gift-giving goal. Tiny plastic animals? Old school bell alarm clocks? Clothing and jewelry and gag gifts? Even pretty frames and fruit bowls. I got my friend one of the latter, and thought it reasonably priced, considering I've been lemming after comparable ones in the Moma store for more. Based on previous reviews, I was nervous about the owner being aggressive. But there were several other shoppers in the store on a Saturday. (I should mention I did hear her pressure another older woman into putting her item up front at the register... despite the customer countering that she wasn't sure she wanted to purchase that particular item). Based on that, I have to assume that the woman is not necessarily assuming shoplifting; but generally trying to offer a service, and help each customer find exactly what she's looking for. Great variety in a quirky shop I overheard another young couple refer to as "so Durham. Gawd, I love Durham." Ditto. read more

Knick knacks galore. This shop is a bit of a hodge podge of things: clothes, bags, shoes, sunglasses, jewelry, fridge magnets, gag gifts, you name it they probably have it. Everything but the kitchen sink. It's kind of overwhelming just how much stuff they have in there. While I would find that kind of thing appealing, the location is super small and with so much stuff in it, it is an invitation for a panic or anxiety attack for the claustrophobic. I couldn't be in there too long cause too much stuff, + too many people = reminded me of an over packed night club where you're rubbing butts to nuts and not in that awesome rubbing kinda way. read more

"Just another typical day at Vaguely Reminiscent!" cheered one of the workers as my yelping boyfriend Ben Y. and I perused through the store. "We're already here..." Ben whispered, taken aback by her declaration and her apparent need to sell the store to us. Vaguely Reminiscent is a funky store and is full of surprises. Nearly every Fred product is available for purchase, as well as those products featuring vintage-looking photographs of women doing household chores, but saying risque things. There are so many things to take in while walking around and all the products either evoke a sense of nostalgia (for me it was seeing one of those balancing birds that sits on a little stand and never tips over) or a smile (those fake keyboard keys that say things like "panic," "OMG" and "shift happens"). The jewelry selection, especially the earrings, is vast and super cool. The jewelry is the kind of jewelry you won't see anywhere else, and I mean that in the best way. What a fun place. It's a fairytale in there. read more

I love browsing around Vaguely Reminiscent when it isn't crowded. When it is crowded, you can't move (it's a VERY tiny, VERY packed store), so I avoid it. They have a lot of great stuff, especially in the jewelry/accessories/gifts department. They also have great Durham shirts and sensible shoes that aren't hideous (say what?!). I had one negative experience with the owner--she was very aggressive when I was on the fence about a purchase--but all other visits have been incredibly pleasant. read more

I can't believe how great the ladies are that work here. We walked in and felt immediately welcome. I was wearing a Bob the Drag Queen shirt and the lady behind the register started riffing with me about the show. Obviously, she became an insta-friend! On top of the super service, they have great jewelry, accessories, and small gifts! Check them out, I dare you to leave without buying something! read more

Vaguely Reminiscent - Yaaaaaas! - Women's Clothing Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This is definitely a hodge-podge sort of boutique, but so so fun. They sell everything from shoes to magnets to books to scarves and vintage signs. I could definitely see myself finding some unique gifts for friends in here. Most items seemed moderate to a little bit pricey, but nothing seemed absolutely unreasonable either. It's a super small store, so brace yourself for the possibility of getting trapped into corners while other customers browse around. Overall, a nice place to stop into on 9th Street. read more

This is the best store in Durham for Unique gifts. A lot of their stuff is made by local artist and the prices a really pretty good before you buy from Amazon or a big box store check them out. read more

This store will make you giggle aloud while shopping. The first thing I saw when I walked in was a set of cat butt magnets. And, of course, I immediately thought of three people to buy them for (but I resisted). There are other humorous magnets (those Ann Taintor ones with retro women's pictures and pithy sayings), books and gift items throughout the store, which also sells clothes, shoes (Naots, in particular), scarves and incense. read more

Vaguely Reminiscent - Women's Clothing Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This was one of the fun stores we visited during our week in Durham. If you're looking for unique knick knacks, gifts or just want to have some fun...this is the store for you. Our favorites of the day included a cookie-shaped change purse, leather applique wallets, bone rings, felt clutches and socks galore. We especially liked the finger-shaped hooks (also available for purchase) throughout the store. read more

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4.5 stars Such a cute little store on ninth street (there's a trend here, I must think all stores on 9th street are cute)!! You can find adorable gifts, pretty gifts, trendy gifts, vintage-ish gifts, weird gifts, gadgets, and more! It's a perfect spot to pick up a unique gift for a family member or friend. There are cards too! It's a little pricey but sometimes there are good deals. For instance, just this past weekend, all the sunglasses were $9.00! That was lovely and I took one. Their selection of earrings are also pretty nice too and range from ~$10-$30 ish. Anything else? Shoes, clothing, wallets, random mouth freshener sprays, music boxes, trinket boxes, travel books, books, random books, oddities, and the list goes on! Definitely stop by! read more

Kids are unwelcome. Your child may enjoy some of the small toys but please DO NOT bring them in to shop.

Vaguely Reminiscent is a narrow, hallway-shaped shop filled to the brim with oddities. I'd passed by the store countless times and, one day while killing time on Ninth Street, I finally stopped in to browse. It carries essentially the same goods as its just-down-the-street neighbor, Cozy, except that it's much more cramped and makes you feel much more awkward. Allow me to elaborate: I was one of four other customers squeezed into the tight space. The first item I picked up was a compact retro purse hanger by Glam. I'd seen a girl with one at a bar the night before and just had to have one; I was thrilled to stumble upon one in this store. The younger sales associates who work in this shop are stylish and friendly enough but the older lady who works there (owner? manager?) makes you feel like a shoplifter! As soon as I picked the purse hanger up, she was at my elbow, squeezing past me to get a boxed one for me, which sounds helpful enough, but was done in such a way as to suggest that she neither wanted me touching the display, nor slipping it discreetly into my pocket. "I'll just keep this behind the counter for you," she said before I'd even verbally committed to buying it. Granted, I was already committed in my heart, but how did she know that? Anyway, yes, I wanted that purse hanger, so I thanked her, and she went behind the counter to hold it for me like she'd said she would do. I turned away, next picking up a really cool octopus bracelet (cheap, silver-painted costume jewelry, which I have worn pretty much every day since I bought it) and, suddenly, there she was again, breathing down my neck. I hadn't heard her sneak up behind me again and I was startled. Once again she took the bracelet from me to put behind the counter. I, shocked, didn't argue. Again, how did she know I was set on purchasing it? At this point, I was ready to jet but, at the checkout counter, I saw a cute little pillbox, another (very specific) item for which I'd been keeping an eye out. It wasn't really the one I wanted (figured I'd know "the one" when I saw it), but it was cute enough. The lady was behind the counter facing me now and once again essentially demanded to know what I was holding in my hands. "It's just this pillbox," I replied, opening my palm, befuddled. "Let me see if we have a boxed one," she said. I told her I didn't need a box, but she said she needed to get one anyway so she could record the information about the pillbox for inventory purposes. This, I kind of understand (not about the box, but about the inventory), but all that was on the pillbox was a little circle sticker with the price on it, so what information did she garner from that, other than what to charge me? I have this weird quirk where, when I'm confused by someone else's behavior, I automatically assume that I'm the one at fault. Yesterday, for example, I was hit by a car---just left bruises on my leg and elbow; I'm fine---while in a crosswalk with a line of traffic stalled at a stop light (i.e., I totally had the right of way), and yet I apologized to the driver who HIT ME. Perhaps this isn't the best example, but my point is, in this situation at Vaguely Reminiscent, I doled out $45 for stuff I kind of wanted, and from a person with whom I didn't enjoy dealing. Now, obviously, in retrospect, I'd just have gone to Cozy, which has more space, friendlier employees (who let you browse in peace!), and has a private parking lot. I'll know better for next time! read more

Found some unique hair clips and a couple of short sleeve shirts that I know I will be compliments on when I get back to Colorado. I will definitely come back when I visit this area again. And the two ladies helping me were more like girlfriends helping me shop, so much fun! read more

Prices are probably higher than they need to be for the quality of their merchandise, but there are lots if fun things to find buried in this little shop. Great place for a gift for your girlfriends. read more

What an awesome shop! They have some clothing, purses, jewelry, and tons of stuff you had no idea you or your friends needed until you went in! It's my favorite place in Durham to buy "everyday" earrings. You know, quirky little posts that go with everything. Everyone's always quick to say hello, and it's so tiny and intimate, I almost feel like I'm browsing in a hoarder's home. read more

Frankly, I expect to be treated well if I am going to spend money in a business. The owner/manager/buyer? had an unpleasant attitude.

Super cute and fun boutique. They have some fantastic pieces of jewelry here as well as some awesome trinkets and toys. This is my go-to place if I need to buy a gift for a girlfriend. Definitely come and check it out! read more

This is a really cool shop with great small gifts for all ages. The store space is very small which I don't mind but you'll definitely have maneuver around anyone else in the shop. The only real bummer about this place is the manager. While nice, she's been known to follow people around the store. Anyone with any kind of purse or bag is required to leave it behind the counter. Same with drinks or food items. I understand the want to keep the store clean, but I'd prefer to be treated like an adult and not some child who may steal or spill a drink. read more

This is a great little gift shop in Durham. They have tons of cute toys, cards, jewelry and accessories. They have clothes although that is not what I personally shop there for. Very clever gift options at all prices! read more

I went here today on my lunch hour looking for a gift for a coworker and was pleasantly surprised at the many items to choose from. I purchased a pretty ring that was relatively inexpensive and super cute. Also, I purchased a few things for myself I will definately be returning here soon! read more

Thank goodness it started raining and we needed a place to duck into! I could spend hours going through all of the little goodies in this store; it took me 20 minutes just to get past the front door there was so much to check out. Super fun jewelry, scarves, novelty knick knacks... give yourself some time in this place. The ladies running the store were super sweet, too. read more

Great find on Ninth St! Fun little shop with tons of interesting nic knacks, jewelry and some clothing. Perfect place if you're searching for a unique gift for that hard-to-please person on your list. I liked the selection of tiny sterling silver stud earrings they had towards the front of the shop. read more

This place is a ship in a bottle. You'll wonder at how they fit so many souvenirs, jewelry, curiousities and comfortable professional-yet-hippy cotton clothing into one teeny tiny shop. Plus they had toys for my son while I shopped. read more

My 4 stars are for the lovely items in this store. However, I can't be a customer here anymore. The clerks hover repeatedly. Forget trying to browse or touch anything. Today, I watched the woman peer at me as I looked at the hanging items, and I was asked no fewer than 4 times if I'd like to try something on, have a dressing room, try it on, until I just had to leave! I like to browse, I usually buy, and I very happily buy in local shops, but please, dial it back! read more

I love the selection of interesting articles packed into this store- but I found the owner/manager (older brunette w/ shortish hair) to be a bit high strung, rude, and like others have noticed, suspicious of customers. and she avoids eye contact! (how did she get into this business?) Even though I'm tempted to go back and browse, now that I know who is behind the scenes I think I'll keep walking! read more

On a recent trip back home to NC, I accompanied my sister to her first visit to this store. I had visited this store multiple times during my stay at a nearby school - the walks down to Ninth Street were always a treat! The store is cozy and is filled with lots of interesting, fun goods. Items that caught my eye: funny retro magnets, cute portable medication boxes, bracelets, oversized rings. Walking into the store, I didn't intend to buy anything, but my interest and $$ got caught by the reasonably price earrings. I especially liked the laser-cut wood earrings (made in the USA) near the cash register. The staff person working the store was helpful and friendly. Ah - going down memory lane with vaguely reminiscent and leaving with some cute earrings. My sister purchased cute earrings and a watch! read more

Great gifts and shoes !! Love this place. One of my favorite shopping venues.