06/15/08

lots of absurd kitsch and collectables, but doesn't accept returns and doesn't warn you!

by membeth

I love this store for collectibles, toys, and absurd home accessories, and had always admired the shoe department. I've previously bought vintage reproduction prints and little house wear stuff there and been quite happy with my purchases. I broke my back a couple of months ago and am now on a never ending quest for shoes that are attractive and comfortable, basically regardless of price, so I tried on several of the $150-200 pairs of John Fluevogs. I was about to buy a pair and wasn't sure about the color (robin's egg blue and purple), so asked about returns. They don't DO returns at all. Exchanges only or store credit. Far more annoying than the policy itself is the fact that it isn't posted AT ALL. I was at the register, shoes and credit card in hand and had to ASK to find this out. I'm bothered that the owner didn't volunteer this at any point, either in a sign or verbally. If I hadn't asked, my first opportunity to learn would've been the sales slip after I'd already MADE the purchase--assuming it's even printed there. I think it's more likely that the way most people discover this is trying to make a return. It's stupid enough to have this kind of policy, but just underhanded not to make it abundantly clear to your customers up front. Had I known at the outset, we wouldn't have wasted each other's time finding shoes that fit and I would be willing to go back for small purchases. After this experience, he won't be making any more money off me.

• Pros: great collectibles and vintage art
• Cons: "no returns" policy isn't posted at all

A curious collection of shoes, toys, cards and novelty items resides in this humble home.

by Contributor

In Short
Don't let the quaint little house fool you. Inside is Atomic City, a den of quirky delights. Find a trove of footwear treasures to suit your creative, alternative lifestyle. You'll also find specialty posters and cards, even hair dye for those wanting to add more color to their lives. Timeless pin-up Betty Page has her own section, with T-shirts and clocks. And there's a wonderful assemblage of toys, like the tin wind-up toys from Europe and Asia.

06/07/03

Atomic City is so good

by rebecko

I only wish Prints would update the website so I could order his fabulous stuff from out of state!!

If you haven't been to Atomic City, your'e missing out on Austin's original weirdo shoe-toy store.

• Pros: great shoes, great shirts, great toys
• Cons: no shipping, only one, I can't live there

07/26/02

A Special Place

by bingsy

I wish I could afford to buy shoes here more often. They are really special and often ahead of the trends. The owner gives individual service, and can tell you a lot about your shoe: about the company that makes it, how to care for it, etc. You have more confidence in your purchase. It is more special than just a regular shoe purchase. Don't forget to look at the post cards. They are all cool! I also recently discovered a unique collection of stamps. In addition, the owner, (Prince?), has quite a Godzilla collection (according to my collecting fiance). It's fun and feels like Austin, the way it's always been.

• Pros: shoes, postcards, Godzilla's
• Cons: can be hot/stuffy