I’ve always had an affinity for vintage. While most girls swoon over Topshop’s latest mini-dress, my day is made by a poufy dress that screams “Dynasty,” or a blouse that seems to belong to grandmother. I love breathing new life into something old, borrowed and, most of the time, ugly.
In some cases, the more hopeless it looks, the better it is for me. When I started my love affair with secondhand items, I was a little matrona (matron)-looking in gaudy printed tops and padded-shoulder blazers. Now, my favorite vintage finds have included a fully sequined cropped jacket, a chain-printed skirt, and a black lace terno.
Moving to London and being exposed to its incredible vintage scene is such a treat for me. From the popular antique market on Portobello Road, to the pop-up vintage boutiques in East London, you can find anything, from Americana from the 1950s to bold jackets from the ’80s. Here are my favorite spots in London to shop vintage, and what I look for:
1. Beyond Retro
58-59 Great Marlborough St., Soho, W1
Practically a London institution, this treasure trove is well-stocked with the ultimate vintage. In this well-organized emporium, get a glimpse of fashion history throughout the decades, from the ’20s to the ’90s. With a wide selection of women’s and menswear, jewelry and accessories, you would have to ask the age-old question: where to begin?
Best find: old-school T-shirts
2. Blitz
55-59 Hanbury St., E1
Owning the title of London’s first vintage department store, Blitz is an emporium, one of the latest additions to the city’s growing vintage scene. Complete with a converted Fiat café bar, it houses fashion merchandise carefully selected by established vintage dealers, alongside up-cycled furniture, books, records, knick-knacks and, some have said, the rare appearance of a McQueen item.
Best find: vintage Swatch watches
3. Brick Lane Market
Brick Lane, E1
Starting out as a street selection of Middle Eastern cuisine, Brick Lane has since evolved and become a favorite area for shopping. On Sundays, just follow the red-lipped, Doc-wearing hipster and you’ll find yourself in one of the most vibrant vintage markets in London. For unusual items, second-hand furniture and interesting articles of clothing, and if you’re in the mood for some junk, it’s definitely a must visit.
Best find: A ‘Vintage by Kilo’ pop-up sale with clothing starting at £10 per kilo
4. The East End Thrift Store
Unit 1a, Watermans Building Assembly Passage, E1
While it may not have the same charm as the usual vintage boutique, this warehouse of secondhand items is a definite go-to. Where thrift is key, this shop offers racks of bargains that can go as low as £4. Worn leather jackets? Check. Acid-washed jeans? They’ve got them. Vintage loafers? Definitely.
Best find: vintage Ferragamo heels
5. Portobello Market
Portobello Road, Notting Hill, W11
Made popular by the movie “Notting Hill,” this is more than just a setting. It’s home to one the famous vintage markets that is flocked to by tourists and Londoners alike. Pretty much a London institution for stalls of antique cameras, home ware, clothing and jewelry. Best to visit on a Friday, and don’t miss the fashion market at the end of the road.
Best find: real fur coats
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