Shopping for Vintage in the City

As a city, London has many faces.  There is the cutting edge designer London built from gleaming chrome and glass, there is the ancient and historic London of old stone and narrow alleyways and then there is eclectic London, a city made up on dozens of different communities that are living together but remaining independent of each other. Amid this strange mix of cultures you will find vintage London, and some incredible stores where you can find amazing items that reflect bygone times.

Located in Covent Garden this vintage retailer has been selling items of retro chic for over twenty years. The staff here are very knowledgeable on the merchandise that they sell and you could pick up an outfit that dates from anywhere from the 1920’s through to the 1980’s. There are two floors to explore and an excellent selection of both men and women’s vintage wear.

House of Vintage

With a name like this you wouldn’t expect it to sell anything else, and behind the doors you can find incredible one off items that date back as far as the 1920’s. The main focus of the store though is on the clothing from the 1940’s, 50’s and 60’s. The clothing that you find here is top quality, high end merchandise with the designer labels of YSL, Burberry and Givenchy still visible.

Lucy in Disguise

Lucy in Disguise is a vintage store with a difference as aside from retailing clothes and trinkets from a bygone era it is also a beauty parlour. This is the store that was founded by pop star Lily Allen and on the rails here you will find many items that have been worn by her as well as plenty of other specially selected vintage pieces that suit the vibe of the store.

One of a Kind

The Portobello Road area is known for its incredible market, but there are also some great stores there too, one of which is One of a Kind. This is a vintage store that attracts the big name celebrities through its doors such as Lindsay Lohan, Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss. On the rails here you could find a vintage Vivienne Westwood piece, but be prepared to part with some money as some of the rarer items sell for thousands.

Pop Boutique

The Pop Boutique refuses to let the fashions from the past just die and fade away. Here you will find a good range of totally kitsch and retro items from the 1960’s through to the 1980’s. The store is located in quirky Covent Garden and is the perfect place to head for that one of a kind party outfit.

Virginia’s Antiques

This is truly a speciality shop; Virginia’s Antiques are specialists in one off rare vintage items, the rarity of which is reflected in the price tag.  Located in Holland Park the store is filled with authentic Victorian nightdresses, silken slipper and a fabulous flapper dress from the 1920’s. The owner Virginia Bates, blogs for Vogue and is often seen at fashion events wearing stunning vintage outfits.