While wandering through the Byward Market a few weeks back, the fella and I stumbled upon Funk Your Junk, an eclectic boutique offering an array of found treasures, retro clothing and upcycled pieces. Unable to resist the appeal of “funky junk”, this girlaboutOtown insisted we stop in to check out the shop, despite the fact it was nearly closing time.
Once inside, we perused the carefully curated collection of clothing, jewellery and shoes, while chatting it up with owners and fellow junk-aholics Henri and Angie. These are two are super-enthused – to say the least – about their main mission, which is to create smiles and encourage joyful, fashionable reuse. Oh, and they’re really friendly too!
Not only to they sell their selection of second-hand finds, they also offer an interesting variety of hand-made and repurposed-goods, as well as music from local bands they’ve discovered and feel like sharing with shoppers. Like any shop of this nature, it may take more than one visit to find just the right thing, but the prices are good and the vibe relaxed enough to encourage your return. It’s the kind of place you can linger without feeling as though you may have overstayed your welcome. 
The real story at Funk Your Junk is behind the scenes though. These two corporate escapees do more than just sell their wares. Henri and Angie also round up previously worn suits and other business clothes to share with those who need them most in their Suited for Success program. Working with the United Way Ottawa to identify beneficiaries for this little bit of extra help, these two store owners show us all just how far a good suit can go. Read a couple of compelling client testimonials here.
To shop for some stylin’ upcycled goods, or to learn more about how to donate your gently used suits, stop in yourself and say hello at Funk Your Junk, 110 Parent St., at Murray.
Photo of Henri & Angie via Funk Your Junk, shop photos by me.
Looks and sounds like an interesting store. The turquoise birdcage is sweet, but the doll in it is a bit creepy!!
You know what?? I just might whip up a batch of cupcakes to bring to the next ODNG meeting
Kelly
Oh yes please on the cupcakes! Yummy.
I’ve seen billboards for this store before, I should go and check it out! I love consignment shops!
Oh neat. I’m always trying to find interesting clothing so I shall go check this out!
This store is right around the corner from me house, I drop by whenever I have a minute to chat and browse.. Actually- usually when I have about a half an hour or so. There is so much wonderful things in that store, it’s small but mighty! My favorite item so far is the change purses made out of Chip bags! ((honestly!)) It’s super cool- an amazing conversation starter! You haven’t experienced the Market Place until you’ve been here!!!