Well, it’s true; it is a bit like cheating. I’ve used Sodo’s Pacific Galleries in this Sale of the Week slot before, but that sale was about stuff — high back chairs and turn of the century statues — and this one is about vintage fashion and discarded designer goods.

On Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9 to 6, antique and vintage dealers as well as enterprising fashion collectors and some local designers (I know the jeweler and beader Marilyn Berg will be on hand to do custom work) will be offering yesteryear’s fashions and contemporary cast-offs.

It’s also true that you never know quite what to expect at these kinds of sales. I saw a sign on the door about the event a week or so ago when my husband and I dropped in to what has become our favorite antique haunt in search of just the right chair for my library room. (Seriously, though, is it out there?) I followed up with the folks at the gallery, and what’s here is all I know. This is the first time the 30,000 square foot ‘mall’ has hosted such an event, but there will be more to come if this one is a hit.

If this one is a hit. Those of us who see shopping as a hunting/gathering expedition are intrigued by the possibilities and not too put off by any disappointments. If you’re more accustomed to selecting perfectly pressed brand new pieces off a pristine rack, this is probably not for you. On that note: a large side area with mirrors has been set aside as a fitting room. If you’re modest, wear layers (slim fitting leggings, etc) that you can keep on as you pull Claire McCardell-esque dresses over your head and check your silhouette.

(I’m guessing that, here, ‘vintage’ will mean, more or less, ‘antique’ — that the best items will be about 40 years old. This, opposed to ‘vintage’ meaning ‘retro,’ wherein we’re talking about the 80s, is my guess. I can’t say for sure. I’ve seen psychedelic 60s mumus and New Look crinoline-lined hostess dresses at Pac Galleries, so you just never know.)

Now. You may recall that there are a couple more not-totally-sure-what-to-expect sales coming up around town. Please see the third and fourth items in this post for reminders about the Closet Treasures sale next weekend, and the annual Glitter Sale in mid-November.