London is just one of a handful of cities that can consider itself a hub of vintage style, with a vast selection of retailers to choose from. However, knowing where to go, let alone what to buy, is a task in itself.
In order to keep shopping trips short and efficient, we’ve put together a list of our favorite second-hand stores in the capital…
Beyond Retro, Brick Lane
Brick Lane-born Beyond Retro does not limit itself to one era, meaning it has something to suit almost every style.
From nineties sweatshirts to fifties footwear, there’s no end to the choice at this popular chain, which has expanded to nine stores worldwide. Its original store in East London is a treasure trove to behold, while its website also ships internationally.
110-112 Cheshire Street, London, E2 6EJ.
The Vintage Showroom, Covent Garden
The Vintage Showroom specializes in mid-century menswear, country clothing and genuine military pieces.
However, the selection isn’t limited, with everything from original sportswear to international items all stocked in one industrial-feel hardware store in Seven Dials.
14 Earlham Street, Seven Dials, London, WC2H 9LN.
Mint Vintage, Stoke Newington
Mint Vintage describes its inventory as “high quality, trend-driven vintage clothing”. And this East London store’s product mix takes after its name, with pieces arriving in near-mint condition.
Catering to the more contemporary dresser, the outlet selects archive pieces designed to work alongside modern day clothing and trends, creating an interesting and individual style all of its own.
71-73 Stoke Newington High Street, London, N16 8EL.
Fat Faced Cat, Islington
Setting up home in a former toy shop on an Islington backstreet, vintage gem Fat Faced Cat plays host to everything from hats to luggage.
While it’s not the cheapest store on our list, the exciting selection and expert staff make every purchase worth while. Plus, the slightly obscure location allows shoppers to browse the rails in peace without too many other fans stealing the good stuff.
22-24 Camden Passage, Islington, London, N1 8ED.
Blitz London, Brick Lane
Hailed as “Europe’s biggest vintage store”, Blitz has more than 20,000 pieces to choose from. Step through the doors and be instantly transported back in time, with unique items ranging from the sixties right up to the modern day on offer over several floors of an old furniture factory.
Accessories are the selling point in this store, with an enviable range of pristine add-ons available.
55-59 Hanbury Street, London, E1 5JP.
What The Butler Wore, Waterloo
Head to this relatively unknown vintage store if sixties and seventies fashion finds are the aim. Inside What The Butler Wore, which sits on a side street just a stone’s throw from the River Thames, is a high quality core offering, alongside select items from other eras.
The focus here is on interesting one-off pieces but the retailer also gets extra points for having its own cat, Binky.
108 Lower March, London, SE1 7AB.
Hornets, Kensington
Hornets in West London now boasts four stores across the Kensington district and its expansion is due to the demand for its period gentleman pieces.
Hornets is renowned for its unique take on vintage dressing, particularly when it comes to an impeccable range of millinery. However, if a full suit and top hat is not on the shopping list, its casual garments are also well worth a look.
2 & 4 Kensington Church Walk, London, W8 4NB.
Absolute Vintage, Brick Lane
High ceilings and wall-to-wall racks of vintage fashion make this East London outlet a sight to behold.
Along with its vast and varied product mix, its prices are low, meaning shoppers can fill up a basket without breaking the bank. Key finds? Vintage denim and jackets.
15 Hanbury Street, London, E1 6QR.
