Each fast fashion stores I visit gives me this feeling of déjà vu, stocked wall-to-ceilings with the same style dresses, coats, jeans, greys, beiges, whites, and blacks. It’s boring, expensive, doesn’t last very long, and dates so quickly, and not in a good kind of vintage way.
The good kind of vintage way I’ve very much been getting into the last year or so. If you’re living in or visiting London, there are so many opportunities to find a good deal to the point where it’s pretty much blasphemy not to at least look.
Unique pieces? ✅
Way more sustainable? ✅
Where to get started? Well, I’m going to show you the best. Let’s go.
The best vintage markets in London
1. Brick Lane Vintage Market
Brick Lane Vintage Market is THE spot in London for all you vintage fashion lovers.
Pretty much vintage Mecca.
With 40+ independent traders selling everything from 1920s glam to 90s grunge, think fur coats, vintage denim, vinyl, quirky homeware pieces, and unique accessories. The works.
It's sustainable shopping at its finest, and you can easily spend hours browsing all the quirky finds. Just be prepared to rummage.
The vibes are immaculate, and there are plenty of Insta-worthy pieces abound.
But be warned, some stalls can be pricey and get crowded AF.
Also, double-check the quality because some stuff might be "vintage-inspired" rather than actual vintage. Overall though, it's a must-visit, no matter how much you’re into vintage.
Open: Seven days a week
Website: Here
2. Beyond Retro
Beyond Retro isn't just some random vintage shop. It's a whole freakin' institution with seven locations across London alone.
Whether you're hitting up their flagship store in Dalston (with 12,000+ pieces), their Coal Drops Yard pop-up, or their Oxford Circus spot, you're guaranteed to find some seriously fire 'fits.
We're talking vintage sweatshirts, party dresses, and everything in between. They even have an excellent exchange program where you can swap out old pieces for store credit.
But, like, be prepared to sift through the racks because it can be a lot to take in. And don't expect rock-bottom prices – this is quality vintage, after all.
But honestly, it's worth the chance to snag one-of-a-kind pieces and give your wardrobe a sustainable upgrade. Plus, their stores are super aesthetic, so it’s a treat just being there.
Also pretty Instagram-worthy.
They’ve been around since 2002, when they opened their first store in Cheshire Street (no longer there), but that should give you an idea of how long this team has been in the game.
Open: Seven days a week
Website: Here
3. Camden Market
Of course, no guide to vintage stores in London would be complete without a mention of Camden - the OG spot for vintage shopping.
The market itself has a spread of pretty much everything you could want or need, with vintage gems scattered throughout. The don’t-miss essentials are topped by The Vintage Collection, which boasts the UK's largest collection of unworn vintage pieces from the 30s to the 90s.
Think fringed jackets, cowboy shirts, and retro band tees, and more.
Another must-visit is Camden Vintage, where you can snag designer labels like Burberry and Barbour at a fraction of the price.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of vintage goodness, try the Camden Market Vintage Tour. It'll take you to all the best spots (six in total), including Time Tunnel Vintage, A Dandy in Aspic, and Min's Retro.
Just be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
Oh, and haggling is welcome.
Open: Seven days a week (individual shop opening times vary from store to store)
Website: Here
4. Greenwich Market
Greenwich Market is a bit of a hidden gem for vintage lovers. It's a bit outside of central London, but it's worth the trek for vintage lovers looking for a kind range of finds and pretty decent prices.
The market itself has a super chill atmosphere, and you'll find a mix of vintage clothing, antiques, and handmade crafts. Another place with a bit of everything, so it makes for a great day out.
While the name says "vintage," you'll also discover a bunch of retro, modern, and handcrafted goodies. Plus, there are food stalls and even places to grab a beer or wine.
Open: Seven days a week - 10 am - 5:30 pm daily
Website: Here
Honourable mentions
While you’ll have your hands and weekends full with the markets outlined above, there’s certainly more going on in London on the vintage side of things. Some more honourable mentions if you’re looking for more ideas:
Old Spitalfields Market: One of the most popular markets in London (8,500 five-star Google reviews is pretty damn impressive), this is a goldmine for vintage, homeware, antiques, and so much more. It’s pretty much got a bit of everything classic.
Jubilee Market: Located near the dead centre of London, Jubilee Market has a lot of bric-a-brac and antiques, but there’s undoubtedly vintage to be discovered here for those willing to look.
Portobello Road Market: A classic London market. Vintage goods are found abound here, but is mostly dominated by classic markets, souvenir stands, food stalls, and the sorts.
Shop vintage and look good doing it!
So, there you have it – your ultimate guide to scoring some seriously fire vintage finds in London. Whether you're a seasoned thrifter or just starting your sustainable fashion journey, these markets are THE spots to level up your wardrobe.
But hey, if you're looking to uncover even more hidden gems and eco-conscious shops, you gotta check out the Ganddee app.
It's like your personal guide to connect you with vintage markets, zero-waste stores, and all things eco-friendly. All the markets, sales, pop-up stalls, and more are found here any time of day, any day of the year.
Download it now and fill your wardrobe with something beautiful.
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