A short distance from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Fells Point’s historic waterfront streets are blanketed with charm and character as a local flea market assembles to create a fashion hub and neighborhood-like community.
Tucked throughout the brick and stone architecture are a diverse array of shops and restaurants that offer a lively climate. While the eateries and shopping opportunities are endless, not every Baltimorean may have the current budget to indulge in the city spending lifestyle.
Broadway Market, located at 1640 Aliceanna St., hosts Bmore Flea weekly in support of sustainability and ethical shopping amongst a large demographic of consumers. The market is open to the public every Saturday, running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Starting Sept. 7, vendors will be consistently operating until Dec. 21.
Second-hand shopping has been all the rage among not only younger generations, but for those coming from all walks of life. Student Ben DiLorenzo ‘27 discussed how Baltimore is an underrated city in a lot of aspects that reach beyond the metropolitan way of life.
“When I’ve been exploring around the city, I’ve found a lot of places to go on walks and sightsee. It’s a good way to get off campus while avoiding the simple act of opening my wallet and spending a lot,” DiLorenzo said.
Focusing on local vendors and vintage items, Bmore Flea has a plethora of affordable and original finds.
“Last week, my friends and I went to the flea market and found some pretty cool items for a decent price. Fells is an active area and we had a good time simply walking around,” DiLorenzo said.
Jacquelyn Segarra, owner of Mariposa Moon Vintage, explains the importance and delight of what purchasing pre-owned and vintage items means to her. With 20 years of experience in vintage shopping, she highlights the skill it takes to be in her field.
“You have to be ahead of the trends and know what’s coming in the future. Fashion runs in a cycle, which is what makes vintage shopping entertaining. You see a lot of the same trends reappear years later,” Segarra said.
Segarra also emphasizes that the demographic of shoppers in her specific tent is under 40.
“I see college students appear the most, you know? A lot of students tend to be drawn to the Y2K and 90s items that I source. You can find a lot of that same style in stores today, like Urban Outfitters, but the quality may not last as long as vintage items would,” Segarra said.
Along the string of tents and clothing racks, Revamp Threads stands out as an upcycling establishment supporting the attack on the rise of fast fashion.
Owner Michelle Shelton states her opinion on the mass-production of new clothing items, and further emphasizes why it is important for a younger demographic to explore the sustainable options around the city.
“When you look at the statistics of fast fashion, it’s sick. People like a unique item that they can’t find anywhere else. I’ve always liked to hunt for different fabrics and see visions in my head of what I can make with them. That’s what makes it fun,” Shelton said.
Shelton says she’s been a part of the flea market community for around two years now, sourcing items from all over the Maryland and D.C. area. She said that selling her items in flea markets is enjoyable because of the people – familiar faces of other vendors and frequent shoppers add to the support of the niche community.
Second-hand shopping is not only an option if you’re looking to save money, but it also promotes sustainability and a less consumer-based lifestyle. If you happen to be in the Baltimore area and are looking for a fun way to shop local, Bmore Flea is available for all to walk through and explore.