It's hard to describe the surprise of discovering a delicate little shop like Peacock & Ruby amidst…read morethe mounds of eggs, plucked geese and fresh vege in the English Market complex. Just outside of the main hall under Farmgate Cafe in a garishly modern corridor, and sharing space with luggage shops and a tweeny bopper boutique, this ornate boutique specialises in vintage furnishings, furniture and jewellery. There are expected space fillers like bulk-order glass tile mosaic mirrors, scented candles and velvet scarves. But pick through the stock and find the real treasures here: vintage opera handbags, revived dressing tables and sparkling costume jewellery. Duck in after a browse through the vintage clothing shop across the hall for a transporting, glamorous experience.

What a cute place. There are some really unusual things for sale here, I bought a ceramic heart…read morethat is just gorgeous, as well as some linen tea-towels. There are all kinds of antique-style home furnishings here, including an old-fashioned cookbook stand, old fashioned-toys and heaps of lace and linen. Upstairs is the bedroom department and it's like walking around a Victorian master bedroom. Fabulous.