Score original finds and retro threads at London's top vintage fashion shops. In addition to discovering unique pieces, shopping secondhand is an environmentally friendly way to buy clothes.
These are the best shops in London for vintage dresses and retro clothing.
1. Alfies Antique Market
Visit the largest indoor antiques market in London at Alfies Antique Market. This charming Marylebone destination has plenty of vintage clothes from the 1930s and 1940s, alongside collectibles and design pieces. Head up to its rooftop kitchen for views over west London.
2. Blackout II
Pick the brains of the knowledgeable staff at Blackout II, who know about all things vintage and have the knack of finding just the right outfit. This two-floor emporium in the shopping hotspot of Covent Garden has been delighting shoppers since 1991.
3. Camden Market
Bag bargain vintage and special one-off pieces at Camden Market. Lots of secondhand shops and stalls sell everything from elegant 1940s dresses to cheesy 1970s and 80s disco wear.
4. Beyond Retro
Head to the huge Beyond Retro vintage clothing shop in Dalston or the brand's other branches in King's Cross or Soho. In 2022, Beyond Retro became the first vintage store in Westfield London. The shop has its own fashion label which gives vintage clothes a new lease of life. Shoppers can find a good selection of leather and suede coats, pixie boots and psychedelic shirts.
5. Cenci
Wander into Cenci, a vintage specialist for men’s, women’s and children’s outfits from the 1920s to the 1990s in West Norwood. This vintage shop also stocks a wide range of accessories, including bags, shoes, belts and gloves.
6. Paper Dress Vintage
Head to Hackney to visit Paper Dress Vintage, a stylish boutique, bar and occasional music and exhibition venue. Not only does this shop have a great range of vintage fashion from the 1900s to the 1980s, but it also offers an alteration service for your own back-of-the-wardrobe vintage items.
7. Pop Boutique
Stock up on vintage clothing carefully selected from buyers around the globe at Pop Boutique. This Covent Garden shop has a green agenda, meaning that pieces that can't be sold are recycled or upcycled under the shop's own brand.
8. Rokit
Express your individuality with wardrobe additions from Rokit, at one of its three shops in London, Rokit Brick Lane, Rokit Covent Garden and Rokit Camden. At these vintage shops, old pieces are lovingly reinvented through the shop's recycled designs for unique and ethical fashion.
9. Serotonin Vintage
A newer addition to London's vintage scene, Serotonin Vintage has quickly made a name for itself with its focus on sustainable fashion. Located on Brick Lane in east London, the shop offers a range of vintage clothing and reworked pieces, emphasising individuality and environmental consciousness.
10. Atika London
Hailed as London's first vintage department store, Atika in east London covers two floors with everything from clothing to books and home goods. Its curated approach to vintage shopping ensures high-quality pieces, making it a must-visit for shoppers looking to add some retro flair to their style.
11. The Vintage Showroom
Located in Covent Garden, The Vintage Showroom is an emporium of men’s vintage clothing and accessories. Specialising in classic British and American menswear, it’s a haven for shoppers in search of authentic military, workwear and tailoring pieces. The shop is also building a women's collection with choice pieces from the late Victorian era to the 1980s.
12. Rellik
Keep an eye out for what the designers, editors and It girls are picking out at Rellik in west London. This shop specialises in designer women’s clothing and accessories, so expect to find high-end brands such as Vivienne Westwood, Pierre Cardin and Comme des Garçons.
Is London good for thrifting?
London’s rich history and diverse cultural tapestry make it an ideal hunting ground for thrift enthusiasts.
From its many charity shops scattered across the city to specialised vintage and secondhand stores, London offers an endless array of options for shoppers looking to find unique and affordable fashion pieces, antique and curios.
Neighbourhoods such as Shoreditch, Camden, Notting Hill and Brick Lane are renowned for their concentration of thrift shops and vintage markets.
Shoppers can find everything from rare vintage designer wear to affordable preloved clothing and accessories.
What thrift stores are in London?
London's numerous charity shops, such as those run by Oxfam, British Heart Foundation, Age UK, Scope and Cancer Research UK, not only offer a range of secondhand goods but also allow shoppers to contribute to charitable causes with their purchases. Added to these are dedicated vintage clothing stores.
Most of the outer London neighbourhoods have several thrift stores along their high streets.
Good streets for thrift shopping in London include Walthamstow High Street, Streatham High Road, Warwick Way in Pimlico, Northcote Road in Battersea and Holloway Road in Islington.
What’s the best day to go thrifting in London?
The best day to go thrifting in London depends on the individual shop.
Weekdays can be less crowded, offering a more relaxed browsing experience. Some thrift shops restock during the week, making weekdays ideal for discovering fresh finds.
Weekends can be busy but are a vibrant time to explore, especially if you’re keen to combine thrifting with a visit to London’s bustling markets such as Portobello Road Market (Saturday) or Brick Lane Market (Sunday), which also offer an array of vintage and secondhand items.
What are thrift shops called in London?
In London, thrift shops are commonly referred to as “charity shops” when they are run by charitable organisations.
The term “vintage shops” is also widely used for stores that specialise in selling retro and antique items.
Market stalls sell secondhand and vintage items at most of the main London markets.
Whether you’re in search of a bargain or a rare vintage piece, London’s thrift and vintage shops are treasure troves just waiting to be explored.
For more fashion in London, check out the best British designers and the top unique and specialist shops.
