Best 13 vintage fashion shops in London

Looking good needn't mean looking like everyone else. Vintage fashion is an original choice, plus it's an environmentally friendly way to buy clothes. Below are some of the best shops in London for vintage dresses and retro clothing. If you're looking for cheap second-hand clothes, take a look at London's charity and thrift shops.

1. Alfies Antique Market

Tin Tin Collectables at Alfies Antique Market. Image courtesy of Alfies Antiques 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 other collectables and design pieces. Make sure to head to its rooftop kitchen for views over west London.

2. Beyond Retro

Beyond Retro. Image courtesy of Beyond Retro.

Head to the original Beyond Retro vintage clothing shop on Brick Lane, or visit the Dalston or Soho branches, for a fine selection of handpicked vintage clothing. The shop has its own fashion label which gives vintage clothes a new lease of life.

3. Blackout II

Blackout II interior. Image courtesy of Blackout II.

Pick the brains of Blackout II's knowledgeable staff who know about all things vintage and have the knack of knowing just which outfit to choose for you. This gem in the shopping hotspot of Covent Garden has been open for nearly two decades.

4. Cabbages & Frocks

David Dent's stall at Cabbages & Frocks. Image courtesy of Cabbages & Frocks.

Head to Marylebone and discover a wealth of designer vintage clothes at Cabbages & Frocks. Hidden in a cobbled courtyard near St Marylebone Paris Church, this vintage market is full of designer brands at bargain prices.

5. Camden Market

Camden Lock Market shops © Shutterstock. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

Bag some bargain vintage or a really special one-off piece in Camden Market. There are lots of second-hand shops and stalls selling everything from elegant 1940s dresses, to cheesy 70s and 80s disco wear.

6. Cenci

Wander into this West Norwood vintage specialist for men’s, women’s and children’s outfits from the 1920s through to the 90s. Cenci also stocks a wide range of accessories – bags, shoes, belts, gloves and more.

7. Paper Dress Vintage

Rails of retro dresses. Image courtesy of Paper Dress Vintage

Head over to Hackney for this stylish boutique, bar and occasional music and exhibition venue. Not only does Paper Dress Vintage have a great range of vintage fashion from the 1900s to 1980s, it also offers an alteration service for your own back-of-the-wardrobe vintage items.

8. Pop Boutique

Pop Boutique. Image courtesy of Pop Boutique.

Stock up on vintage clothing carefully selected from buyers around the globe at Pop Boutique London. This Covent Garden shop has a green agenda, meaning that pieces that can't be sold are recycled, or upcycled, under the store's own brand.

9. Rellik

Rellik vintage shop. Image courtesy of Rellik.

Keep an eye out for what the designers, editors and It girls are picking out at Rellik in west London. Specialising in designer women’s clothing and accessories, expect to find high-end brands like Vivienne Westwood, Pierre Cardin and Comme des Garçons.

10. Rokit

Rokit vintage shop. Image courtesy of Rokit.

Express your individuality with wardrobe additions from Rokit, at one of four stores in London, located in Brick Lane, Covent Garden and Camden. At these vintage stores, old pieces are lovingly reinvented through the shop's recycled designs for completely unique and ethical fashion.

For more fashion in London, take a look at these guides to the best British designers and top specialist shops.