London is a Fashion vintage Lovers Land. The fashion today is to use the classic looks of the past. In order to creat the looks you really want to, The Unique Blog made a selection of the most fantastic vintage shops where you can pick up some great vintage and retro clothing from days gone by.
Looking good needn’t mean looking like everyone else. Vintage is now the most original choice, plus its an environmentally friendly way to buy clothes. Below are some of the best places to find vintage and retro clothing in London, from budget buys to high-end vintage.
Lucy in Disguise
Vintage clothing store founded by pop singer Lily Allen and her sister Sarah Owen. Sells and hires vintage and retro ranges, from high-end designer pieces to fun kitsch pieces. There’s also an in-store hair and beauty salon. 48 Lexington Street, Carnaby, London, W1F 0LR
One of a Kind
This Portobello Road vintage haven is a favourite with celebs such as Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Lindsay Lohan. Find inspiration from old Vivienne Westwood and Yves Saint Laurent clothing so rare that prices head well into the thousands! One Of A Kind also offers more reasonably priced rags, so you’re sure to find something that’s within your budget. 259 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 1LR
House of vintage
At the heart of the House of Vintage is the good taste of buyer and owner Dennis Adamidis, as well as the knowledge and passion of their lovely staff. 4 Cheshire Street, Bethnal Green, London, E2 6EH
Camden Market
Around 200 stalls jostle for space in the narrow alleyways off Camden High Street/Chalk Farm Road. Originally known as Buck Street Market, shoppers can find clubwear, jewellery, fashion accessories, shoes and alternative clothes. Many of the stallholders sell their own jewellery and clothes designs. Open Monday to Sunday, 9.30am to 6pm. Camden High Street, London, NW1 0JH
Absolute Vintage
Absolute Vintage sells quality vintage clothing and accessories for men and women from the 1930s to 1980s.15 Hanbury Street, London, E1 6QR
Well known to fashion students, who regularly haunt this Soho textiles mecca to find one-off pieces of material, The Cloth House evokes the feeling of haberdashery stores of the past. ‘I love coming here to find special fabric to use in H&A shoots,’ says Kiera. There are two shops, both on Berwick Street.47 & 98 Berwick Street, W1F 8SJ. 020 7437 5155
‘You can’t escape from Cristobal without buying at least one piece of sparkling costume jewellery,’ says Katherine. Having specialised in vintage jewellery for 25 years, owner Steven Miners is well known in interior design circles for his eclectic taste and sourcing items for special projects for film and theatre productions.26 Church Street, NW8 8EP. 020 7724 7230
Past Caring
‘Ceramics, glass, metalware, kitchenalia and furniture… there truly is something for everyone in this shop, with prices ranging from just a few pounds to several hundred,’ says Mark. ‘I challenge you to leave without buying at least one thing.’76 Essex Road, N1 8LT.
If you’re after an old wax jacket or vintage American sweater, this is the shop for you. Longtime dealers Douglas Gunn and Roy Luckett opened the store a couple of years ago in what was formerly ironmonger FW Collins & Son.14 Earlham Street, Seven Dials, WC2H 9LN. 020 7836 3964
Le Grenier is the brain child of Yuko Tsukahara-Gaydu and her husband Jean-Louis, who scour the UK and France for furniture, tableware and kitchenalia. ‘They have a lovely collection of 1960s tea sets,’ says Wayne.146 Bethnal Green Road, E2 6DG. 020 7790 7379; le-grenier.com
