Dancing Days

Dubbed ‘The King of Kensington,’ Nigel Murray, the owner of Dancing Days has most certainly a jewel of a vintage shop. Let’s start with a bit of history:
Murray’s store opened in the vibrant Kensington market 20 years ago (this year being its 20^th anniversary) and marked the beginning of what is known today as the popular strip of shops that hold everything vintage, unique and hard-​to-​find.
I’ve shopped around the market for years, and while many of the stores are multiplied molds of each other, often carrying the same goods (which I later discovered happen to be for sale by the same owners), Dancing Days is by far my favourite and truly, the most unique.
It is often the people behind the scenes that set things apart, and it is without doubt that Murray and his friendly staff at Dancing Days are the reason this store is the best in Kensington. As Murray himself claims, it is the «only true hippy shop in the market.» As a shopper, and a critical eye, I agree whole heartedly!
Dancing Days specializes in vintage 70s and 80s rock and roll t-​shirts, band shirts, and the like that are hard to find and one of a kind. I went pretty nuts over a Cyndi Lauper shirt I found and there is definitely something for everyone. There is a gigantic assortment of vintage belt buckles and funky accessories that I haven’t ever seen before and I was shown a dress from the 1950s that would’ve put Marilyn Monroe’s classic white number to shame.
You will find just about everything in this store that is unique, crafty and eclectic. Most of the clothing is imported from India and Guyana and many of the items are rare and especially beautiful. I love the funky tee shirts and lovely peasant skirts, that I’m sure would be a big hit with the ladies. For the guys, there is no shortage of unique clothing for purchase, either. The space is jammed with used shoes, jackets, pants and dysheekies! I haven’t seen those in years!
One of the greatest things about Dancing Days is something that is hidden to everyone. I was let in on a little secret about the shop and it is a juicy one! In the back space of the store, there is a recording studio; something that is not very well known at all. Murray and the studio have actually produced three bands, including a reggae dub band, among others.
The musical presence in Dancing Days is a true testament to the lively, music culture that pulsates through Kensington on a daily basis. Every weekend, during the popular Pedestrian Sundays, Dancing Days opens its windows, and the front of the store turns into a mini jam session, where past staff members come back and drum and entertain the passersby.
I love everything about this store; the clothing, the feeling of serendipitous discovery, the music playing inside, and the community focus. Dancing Days is a treasure for anyone looking for vintage clothing and unique items; truly the best in the market!