few weeks ago, I walked into Oona's (1210 Massachusetts Ave.) and was greeted with the unaccustomed sight of bare walls. There wasn't a '50s frock, feather boa, or vintage fedora in sight. If you've ever been inside this Harvard Square haunt any time since it opened in 1972, you know that every nook and cranny was utilized, and there was barely room to turn around.

Luckily, it's not going to stay this way for long. A local gal, Ellie Mueller, has bought the shop and is revitalizing the space, which is full of possibility. Mueller is halfway through a two-month renovation, so the next time you step inside, there will once again be lots of pretty things to look at.

I'd been to Oona's only rarely in the past few years, and always came out empty handed, until I met Mueller, who has been working in the store since last September. On a rainy day best suited for spending hours in a dressing room, she had a dressing room full of things for me to try in minutes, nearly all of which fit.

The best find by far has been a one-shoulder Pauline Trigere gown, black felt with painted gold ovals, that fits as if it were made just for me. Mueller also unearthed a '70s Zandra Rhodes skirt, cropped quilted jacket, and mod champagne-colored sequin sheath. I have faith in Mueller and her vision for the store, and can't wait to see the finished product.

There is enchanting talk of a wall of necklaces, a costume room (it wouldn't be Oona's without one), and even a special cabinet for delicate pieces from the 1920s. Secondhand shops often are clogged with too much inventory, but Mueller is determined to open up the floor and create an elegantly edited atmosphere.

This is a girl who can rock a neon-green mini dress with combat boots, or early Isaac Mizrahi—while riding her bicycle. She has an artistic eye combined with confident style, and, more importantly, can size someone up in minutes, which really pays when you're shopping vintage.

The hardest part will be waiting till next month, when Oona's reopens, to shop there again.

Off the Rack

Flock Boston’s summer sale continues, with 30 percent off spring and summer apparel, shoes, and accessories.

Heading to the Cape of Vineyard? Find great shopping secrets at MySecretCapeCod.com. and the new MySecretMarthasVineyard.com.