Are you a fan of vintage clothing but find it hard to navigate the bustling city of London to find the best thrift shops? Do you often end up spending hours scrolling through online shops, only to find out that the item you love is already sold out? We understand your pain, and that's why we've compiled a list of the best vintage thrift shops in London to make your life easier.
London is a hub of vintage fashion, and finding the best thrift shops can be overwhelming. But fear not, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll be sharing our top picks for the best vintage thrift shops in London, where to find them, and what to expect.
After researching and visiting numerous thrift shops across London, we've narrowed down the best of the best. Our main criteria for selection were quality, variety, and affordability. So, let's dive in and discover the hidden gems of London's vintage thrift shops.
The East End Thrift Store
The East End Thrift Store, located in the trendy area of Mile End, is a must-visit for anyone looking for affordable and unique vintage finds. From vintage jackets to quirky accessories, this thrift store has it all. The prices are unbeatable, with items starting from as little as £5. Plus, they offer a student discount.
During my last visit to the East End Thrift Store, I found a stunning vintage leather jacket for only £25. The staff were helpful and friendly, and the overall shopping experience was enjoyable. I highly recommend this thrift store for anyone on a budget but looking for high-quality vintage pieces.
Beyond Retro
Beyond Retro has multiple locations across London, including Soho, Brick Lane, and Dalston. This thrift store is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, with a vast selection of items from the 1920s to the 1990s. The prices are slightly higher than other thrift stores on this list, but the quality and variety make it worth it.
During my visit to Beyond Retro in Soho, I found a vintage floral maxi dress from the 1970s that fit me like a glove. The staff were helpful in finding my size and offering styling advice. Beyond Retro also offers a range of sustainable and ethical fashion options, making it a great choice for conscious shoppers.
Rokit
Rokit has been a staple in London's vintage scene since 1986, with multiple locations across the city. This thrift store specializes in vintage denim, but you can also find a range of other vintage clothing and accessories.
During my visit to Rokit in Camden, I found a vintage Levi's denim jacket for only £35. The staff were knowledgeable about the history of the items, and the overall shopping experience was enjoyable. Rokit also offers an online shop, making it easy to browse and purchase vintage finds from the comfort of your own home.
The Mercantile London
The Mercantile London, located in Spitalfields, is a curated vintage boutique that offers a range of vintage clothing and accessories from the 1920s to the 1990s. The prices are slightly higher than other thrift stores on this list, but the quality and curation make it worth it.
During my visit to The Mercantile London, I found a stunning vintage 1920s beaded flapper dress that was in excellent condition. The staff were knowledgeable about the history of the items and offered advice on how to style them. The Mercantile London also offers a range of vintage homeware items, making it a great choice for those looking to add some vintage charm to their home.
Question and Answer
Q: Are vintage thrift shops only for those on a budget?
A: Not at all. While thrift shops do offer affordable options, they also offer unique and high-quality vintage pieces that are hard to find elsewhere.
Q: Can I find sustainable and ethical fashion options at vintage thrift shops?
A: Yes. Many vintage thrift shops, such as Beyond Retro, offer sustainable and ethical fashion options by upcycling and repurposing vintage items.
Q: Do vintage thrift shops only offer clothing?
A: No. Many vintage thrift shops also offer a range of vintage homeware items, accessories, and even vinyl records.
Q: Is it worth visiting vintage thrift shops outside of central London?
A: Yes. Many of the best vintage thrift shops in London are located outside of central London, such as The East End Thrift Store and Rokit. Plus, exploring different areas of London can be a fun and exciting experience.
Conclusion of The Best Vintage Thrift Shops in London
London is a hub of vintage fashion, and exploring the vintage thrift shops is a must-do for any fashion enthusiast. From affordable finds to high-quality curation, the thrift shops on this list offer something for everyone. So, grab your friends and explore the hidden gems of London's vintage thrift shops.