Are you tired of the same old fast fashion trends and looking for a unique and timeless style? Look no further than the world of vintage fashion stores. These hidden gems offer a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind pieces that can elevate your wardrobe and make a statement. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a guide to the best vintage fashion stores to help you navigate this exciting world.
The History of Vintage Fashion Stores
Before we dive into our list of the best vintage fashion stores, let’s take a step back in time and explore the origins of this trend. Vintage fashion stores emerged in the 19th century when mass production of clothing began. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that vintage fashion became popular as people started to appreciate the quality and uniqueness of older garments.
During the 1960s and 1970s, the hippie and bohemian trends revived interest in vintage clothing from the 1920s and 1930s. In the 1980s, the punk movement brought back the edgy styles of the 1950s and 1960s. And in recent years, we have seen a resurgence of vintage fashion thanks to celebrities and influencers sporting retro looks on red carpets and social media.
How to Use Best Vintage Fashion Stores
Using vintage fashion stores is all about creating a personal style that reflects your individuality. It’s about mixing and matching different eras and creating a look that is truly your own. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of these stores:
- Do your research: Before diving into the world of vintage fashion, do some research on different eras and styles. This will help you narrow down your search and find pieces that truly speak to you.
- Know your measurements: Vintage clothes often come in different sizes than modern clothing, so it’s important to know your measurements and try on pieces before purchasing.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match: Experiment with combining vintage pieces with modern ones to create a unique and eclectic look.
- Accessorize: Accessories can make or break an outfit, so don’t forget to add some vintage-inspired accessories to complete your look.
- Take care of your vintage pieces: These garments are often delicate, so make sure to follow care instructions to ensure they last for years to come.
Our Top Picks for Best Vintage Fashion Stores
- Rokit (London, UK)
- What Goes Around Comes Around (New York City, USA)
- Beyond Retro (Online)
- Cherry (Melbourne, Australia)
- Two Lovers (Tokyo, Japan)
- The Vintage Twin (New York City, USA)
Rokit (London, UK)
Rokit is one of the biggest and most well-known vintage fashion stores in London. It has been around since 1986 and has expanded to five locations across the city. Rokit offers a wide range of vintage clothing, from 1920s flapper dresses to 1990s grunge looks. They also have a selection of hand-picked designer pieces, making it a must-visit for fashion lovers.
Some popular items at Rokit include their vintage Levi’s jeans and band t-shirts. In addition to their physical stores, Rokit also has a strong online presence, making it accessible to shoppers all over the world.
How to Use Rokit
To make the most out of your experience at Rokit, here are some tips:
- Visit multiple locations: Each location carries a slightly different selection of items, so it’s worth visiting more than one store.
- Check their website regularly: Rokit often holds sales and special events, so keep an eye out for deals.
- Don’t be afraid to haggle: Some items at Rokit may be priced higher than others, so don’t hesitate to negotiate a better price.
What Goes Around Comes Around (New York City, USA)
Located in the trendy SoHo neighborhood of New York City, What Goes Around Comes Around is a vintage fashion store that has become a celebrity favorite. Their extensive collection includes vintage designer pieces from top fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and Gucci.
In addition to their impressive selection of clothing, What Goes Around Comes Around also offers a variety of vintage accessories, including handbags and jewelry. And if you can’t make it to their physical location, you can shop their curated collection online.
How to Use What Goes Around Comes Around
Here’s how you can make the most out of your visit to What Goes Around Comes Around:
- Bring a budget: While some items may be more affordable, many pieces at this store come with a high price tag due to their designer labels.
- Be on the lookout for rare finds: This store is known for its rare vintage pieces, so keep an eye out for unique and one-of-a-kind items.
- Follow them on social media: What Goes Around Comes Around often hosts pop-up events and collaborations, so following them on social media can help you stay updated and snag exclusive items.
Our Personal Examples of Best Vintage Fashion Stores
As vintage fashion enthusiasts ourselves, we have visited many vintage fashion stores all over the world. Here are our personal examples:
- Tokyo 7 (New York City, USA)
- No Relation Vintage (Toronto, Canada)
- Vintage Chic (Paris, France)
Tokyo 7 (New York City, USA)
Tokyo 7 is a Japanese-inspired vintage store located in the East Village of New York City. It has an extensive collection of vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories from different eras and countries. This is the go-to spot for fashion-forward individuals looking for unique and edgy pieces.
Some popular items at Tokyo 7 include their selection of vintage Levi’s jackets and designer shoes. And with new arrivals every week, there’s always something new to discover at this store.
No Relation Vintage (Toronto, Canada)
No Relation Vintage is a hidden gem tucked away in Toronto’s Kensington Market neighborhood. This store offers a mix of vintage clothing and modern streetwear, making it a favorite among both vintage enthusiasts and trendsetters.
Their collection includes everything from 1970s bohemian dresses to 1990s grunge looks, all at affordable prices. They also have a selection of vintage-inspired jewelry and accessories to complete your look.
Vintage Chic (Paris, France)
Located in the heart of Paris, Vintage Chic is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic French vintage fashion. This store specializes in high-end designer pieces from brands like Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Dior, making it a dream destination for fashion lovers.
Their beautifully curated collection includes garments from the 1920s to the 1980s, all in excellent condition. And with knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere, shopping at Vintage Chic is a truly enjoyable experience.
Comparing the Best Vintage Fashion Stores
While each of the vintage fashion stores mentioned above offers a unique shopping experience, they all have one thing in common: their dedication to preserving and promoting the beauty and quality of vintage fashion. However, there are some key differences to consider when comparing these stores:
- Location: Depending on where you live, some of these stores may be more accessible than others.
- Budget: While some stores offer affordable options, others may require a higher budget due to their designer labels.
- Selection: Each store offers a different selection of vintage pieces, so it’s worth visiting multiple options to find the styles that best suit your taste.
Tips and Advice for Shopping at Best Vintage Fashion Stores
- Be patient: It takes time to find the perfect vintage piece, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t find what you’re looking for right away.
- Inspect items carefully: Vintage clothing may have wear and tear, so make sure to thoroughly inspect pieces before purchasing.
- Take care of the environment: Shopping at vintage fashion stores is a sustainable way to update your wardrobe and reduce your impact on the environment.
- Have fun and be creative: The beauty of vintage fashion is that there are no rules, so have fun and experiment with your style.
FAQs about Best Vintage Fashion Stores
Q: Can I find sizes to fit all body types at vintage fashion stores?
A: Yes, vintage fashion stores offer a wide range of sizes and styles to cater to all body types.
Q: Are all vintage fashion stores expensive?
A: No, there are many affordable options available at vintage fashion stores. It’s all about knowing where to look and being open to different styles.
Q: Can I return items purchased from vintage fashion stores?
A: It depends on the store’s return policy, so make sure to check before making a purchase.
Q: Is it safe to shop at vintage fashion stores during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A: Many vintage fashion stores have adapted to the current situation and offer online shopping options to ensure the safety of their customers.
Q: Are vintage fashion stores ethical?
A: Yes, shopping at vintage fashion stores promotes sustainability and reduces the demand for fast fashion, which has a negative impact on the environment and labor practices.
Conclusion: Embracing the World of Best Vintage Fashion Stores
In a world of fast fashion and mass production, vintage fashion stores offer a unique and sustainable way to express your personal style. With their array of one-of-a-kind pieces and affordable options, there’s something for everyone at these hidden gems. So next time you’re looking to update your wardrobe, consider giving vintage fashion a try and find your perfect retro style.
