When I hear of a new charity or vintage shop opening in Manchester, my heart does a little flutter at the anticipation of what could be.

In the same way many Americans hipsters went nuts for Topshop on their home turf, I anticipate a vintage store opening with the same sort of relish.

It’s on this previously uncharted territory that I may discover that perfect pair of trousers, a magnificent hat, or a dress that I don’t know how I lived without in my wardrobe.

So I was surprised to learn that such a new vintage mecca had landed on my doorstop, and had been there for a month without me knowing.

Click here for the full Mancunian Matters interview and write up.

Tucked-away in the corner of Oak Street, next to the Manchester Craft & Design Centre is an RSPCA boutique charity shop.

Having learned of its existence I was determined to get myself down there and see what it was like.

As enticing to a child in a sweet shop, the colour explosion and sheer range of quality designer and vintage goods will have your mouth watering before you even get chance to browse properly.

And if I didn’t already have a red hat similar to this one it would have come home with me…

Shop manager Stephanie Thornton designed the shop layout in addition to sourcing and upcycling the mid-century display cabinets and dressers.

Aren’t they lovely?

I’d love a giant one of these (or several of this size) to store my ever-expanding shoe collection…

Here’s shop manager Stephanie (on the right) along with a dedicated volunteer and Sally the shop dog.

Sally’s 12 years old, she suffers from poor eyesight, diabetes and lung cancer but still loves strutting her stuff on the shop floor greeting customers.

She’s quite camera-shy so managing to get two shots of her was something of a success.

It took the promise of a treat to get her to stand still long enough for this pic…. but it was certainly worth it.

Isn’t she gorgeous?

I love these mustard and blue vintage tea sets, I think they’d make a smashing addition to any tea party.

And this tea set wasn’t the only blue find that whetted my appetite.

Hanging on one of rails tucked away towards the back of the shop was a lovely deep blue dress.

This blue taffeta 50s-style cocktail dress with a black velvet trim looked lovely on the hanger, and after discovering it might fit I got that little heart flutter.

I had a Cinderella-esque moment when this 80s Clockhouse dress zipped-up easily and fitted like it was made for me. *girly squeal*

Cue a dash to the till to hand over my £10.99.

If you have a spare half an hour or so and in you’re in that neck of the woods do drop in, it’s a decision you won’t regret!

The store is at 13-15 Oak Street, and is open from Monday to Friday 10am-6pm  and on Saturday 10am-5.30pm.

For more information about the Manchester and Salford Branch of the RSPCA and their new stock, visit their Facebook page.