The elderly ladies peddling their wares on Peel Street have new competition. Select 18, a little hip boutique at the corner of Hollywood Road selling vintage and rare-import fashions, accessories and kooky knick-knacks, enjoyed a cosy opening on Friday. It's the brainchild of DIY entrepreneur Nadia Ying (the one with a tie), who also painted the shop's funky exterior. Starting with an even smaller test shop about a year ago on Bridges Street, the budding shopkeeper has proved there is a taste for things more quirky than the usual glitzy shopping mall experience in the city.

Convincing six other small-time flea marketeers to share the space, Ying is ready to expand her eclectic shop. Plus, contrary to what one might think in our disposable society, it's not too hard at all for her to source vintage and good second-hand stock. 'No, it's not difficult,' Ying said. 'I have these ladies who bring me old clothes and stuff but I have to be selective. I may take three pieces out of 20 they bring me.'

Not everything on consignment is old or antique, though. One corner of the shop is stocked by stylist (and Post Magazine contributor) Dora Chan (far left in picture). On her shelf are the first copies of her new anthology Young Asian Fashion Designers, a new compendium of the up-and-coming style makers. Select 18 is the only place where you will find it until its release next month.