IRL: Best Vintage Shops in London
From sustainability to scarcity, the reasons to shop vintage are ever increasing. Here, Lauren Ashdown spotlights her favourite vintage shops in London.
© Chanel Spring/Summer 1995 via Vogue Runway
In a world of polyester-fuelled monotony, sourcing rare bargains from the past is not only uplifting and fulfilling, but it also reduces our need to buy and replace fast fashion. When one can’t afford to source our entire wardrobe from the likes of Net-a-Porter and MatchesFashion, vintage shopping can lend a helping hand. Take a visit to our top picks in London and you’ll be sure to find a gem or two.
Rokit, Covent Garden – With shops in three London locations, Rokit in Covent Garden is a vintage lover’s haven. The large space is (orderly) filled to the brim with pre-loved band t-shirts, vintage Levi's and designer accessories. From Armani to Burberry, Gucci to Louis Vuitton, going to Rokit can be a bit of a lucky dip, but repeated returns will ensure success.
42 Shelton St, London WC2H 9HZ @rokitvintagelondon
Storm In A Teacup, Dalston – Sitting in the heart of Dalston in an urban Georgian conversion, Storm in a Teacup houses an array of rare vintage and designer pieces. With a focus on sustainability, they encourage the recycling of treasured items from one fashion enthusiast to the next. Upon entering, you’ll find vintage designer pieces from the likes of Comme des Garçons, Alexander McQueen, Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and many more.
366 Kingsland Rd, Dalston E8 4DA @storminateacuplondon
Wow Retro, Covent Garden – If you want to channel your inner Danny Zuko, Wow Retro has a vast leather selection to find your perfect fit. From vintage trainers to leather biker boots, the bursting rails are home to an on-point selection of pre-loved steals. Take a trip to Covent Garden and tick off multiple hotspots in a row.
179 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5QF @wowretrolondon
Serotonin Vintage, Brick Lane – For your fix of Factory Girl retro fashion, Serotonin Vintage is a must-visit for distinctive designer bargains. The curated rails are bursting with one-of-a-kind vintage pieces from the likes of Moschino, Chanel, Burberry and Dior. Take a look at the shop's Instagram and Depop accounts for a snapshot of their latest arrivals.
Brick Lane, Weavers, London E1 6SA @serotoninvintage
Paper Dress Vintage, Hackney – With a vintage rock ’n’ roll vibe, Paper Dress Vintage has a true vintage aesthetic, from the classic decor to the versatile collection of pieces that range from the 1920s to the 1980s. Soak up the atmosphere and stay for a coffee once you’re all shopped out. They also host a range of events and dances, making it a one-stop destination for a true blast from the past.
352a Mare Street, London E8 1HR @paperdressvintage
Rellik, Ladbroke Grove – Rellik has an eclectic mix of fashion and accessories spanning eras, ranging from the 1930s to selective pieces from the present-day- walking into the shop feels like you’re stepping into a time machine and waking up in a distant decade. With a speciality in accessories and footwear, designers include Vivienne Westwood, Alaia, Bill Gibb, Comme des Garçons and Pierre Cardin.
8 Golborne Gardens, London W10 5NW @rellikvintage
One of a Kind Archive, Portobello Road – Located on the much-loved Portobello Road, One of a Kind Archive sits in an unassuming, dark-painted store. It’s one not to miss and home to a jam-packed vintage collection. With A-list customers including Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell and Sienna Miller, there’s even a secret room which houses the more exclusive pieces (by appointment only). Tom Ford, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Stella McCartney and Karl Lagerfeld are not just labels stocked here; all have visited the store for inspiration, too.
259 Portobello Rd, London W11 1LR @oneofakind.archive
Words by Lauren Ashdown