Parisa Burton 
Retro and vintage is on the rise, and yes, that includes Y2K (essentially 25 years ago at this point — shockingly but technically vintage). And with it, some very eclectic businesses have flourished, like Bubblegum Chic, a popular Y2K vendor at the Lackawanna Station markets. Bubblegum Chic got its start at Lackawanna Station during the monthly Montclair Flea markets, and now has its own storefront at 580 Lafayette Avenue in Hawthorne. A two-day grand opening took place April 11th + 12th. Read on to learn more about Bubblegum Chic and its new vintage store in Hawthorne, NJ.
The Journey to Bubblegum Chic
Bubblegum Chic specializes in the Y2K aesthetic, which draws inspiration from the early 2000s era of fashion. New women’s and men’s pieces are sourced for every show, giving customers a fresh selection each time, featuring popular brands like Juicy Couture, Baby Phat, Guess, Hollister, Aeropostale, Abercrombie, Playboy, and Ed Hardy. The women-owned brand has also held ‘Whatnot Shows,’ which is a live auction platform with bids starting at $1.
Each pop-up includes a giveaway where customers can enter to win a sought-after item, typically a Coach, Juicy Couture, or Guess purse, with the winner revealed through a wheel spin on their Instagram story.
The shop has built a loyal fan base through its carefully curated selection, consistent presence at Montclair Flea, and thoughtful giveaways at every show.
Read More: Inside the James Howe House, One of Montclair’s Most Important Historic Sites
The owners behind Bubblegum Chic began hosting pop-ups across Northern, NJ in 2024. When they aren’t at Lackawanna Station, they can be found at flea markets in Clifton, Elmwood Park, Lincoln Park, and Paterson. Bubblegum Chic made its Montclair Flea debut during the 2025 holiday market in late November and now has its very own storefront in Hawthorne, NJ.
New Shop in Hawthorne
Bubblegum Chic soft-launched its brick-and-mortar opening via an Instagram caption on March 22nd and held its two-day grand opening celebration on April 11th-12th from 11AM to 8PM. The shop is open Saturday + Sunday from 12-8PM, and Fridays from 3-9PM.
We stopped by during opening weekend and were instantly transported back to the early 2000s. Everything from the clothing and accessories to the decor and store music is reflective of that time period. Shelves are topped with nostalgic elements, including rare Barbie dolls, Bratz, Lalaloopsy, Betty Boop, and Hello Kitty.
There is also Victoria’s Secret inspiration throughout the store, seen in the signature pink striped dressing room wallpaper, polka dot walls behind the register, and polka dot mannequins. The shop also has a trinket trade station, inviting customers to exchange stickers, charms, mini figures, jewelry, fidgets, and other items while browsing the store.
See More: Time Travel Back to Y2K at these Hoboken + Jersey City Spots
Follow @themontclairgirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Montclair updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.
