While rummaging through the racks of Antique Sugar, many will be surprised to discover the charming vintage boutique brimming with an astonishing collection of colorful—yet, desirable pieces. Exploring the shop is an adventure; conscious fashionistas swoon over men’s and women’s vintage pieces dating from the 1920s to the 1980s.

Located in the heart of downtown Phoenix in the Melrose District, Antique Sugar has attracted an array of vintage enthusiasts since 2010. What sets Antique Sugar apart from other vintage stores is its passion and heartbeat inspired by its owners, Sarah Bingman and Annamarie Sanchez.

Around 4 a.m. Dec. 6, Bingham and Sanchez received a devastating phone call from their alarm company at the shop. For the fourth time this year, Antique Sugar got “ransacked” after someone threw a boulder through a glass window.

“They made off with about 25 vintage leather coats,” Bingham says. “Anna and I vented on Facebook about our frustration and sadness that this had to happen right before the holidays when we are trying to get some extra money together for presents and traveling.”

The early morning tragedy cost the storeowners $1000 in damages. The small shop not only suffered from the shattered window, but also was robbed of $2,000 worth of merchandise.

“Some of our friends from the local music scene saw our posts and rallied like champs for us,” Bingham says. “Several bands offered to play a benefit show to help us recoup some of the losses.”

Thursday Dec. 20, Antique Sugar will be holding an event from 6 p.m.-10 p.m. called “It’s a wonderful clothing store benefit.” This event will feature local bands including: Doctor Bones, Palms, Sun Ghost and Companeros. After the show, several musicians will performs acoustic sets inside the store. The day of the event, the boutique will be 20% storewide.   

“So basically, we are having a great big party with some of the best bands in the Valley, awesome deals on vintage clothing, a little wine and hopefully a lot of holiday cheer,” Bingham says.

Antique Sugar is located at 724 W. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, 85013. 602-277-5765.