Guide to the best vintage shops in London

If you're after lace-trimmed skirts, Bridgerton-style frocks, 1940s accessories and long silk dresses, then Blackout II will have you sorted. This vintage shop in London has been around on the city scene for many years and has earned itself a reputation for providing elegant, sophisticated vintage ladieswear at a very reasonable price.

This second-hand shop started out in a London warehouse but it soon evolved into what it is today: a true vintage institution all over London and Sweden. Every shop is filled with pre-loved clothing, shoes and accessories all available for a really decent price.

Circa Vintage is the place to go for second-hand in London that focuses on high-end, luxurious vintage pieces that you won't find anywhere else. They make it super easy to browse through everything as it's organised by size, decade and designer. Once you've picked something out, they also have an alteration service should you need to use it.

Everyone in London knows about Rokit, and for a good reason. It's been a mainstay on the London vintage scene for years and has popped up in various locations around the city (Brick Lane, Covent Garden and Camden). You can pick up second-hand clothing, accessories and shoes here that date back from the '80s up to the present day.

Head to Soho's Reign Vintage in London if you're on a quest for a spicy second-hand outfit - these guys have it all, from funky shellsuits to designer shoes. The website is always fully-stocked, so you can peruse their online shop and easily pick out a new outfit or three if you can't get down to Soho in time.

It would be easy to while away a few hours simply rummaging through everything on offer at Atika, one of the biggest vintage shops in London. From Levi's to Nike, choose from various items from well-known brands, all pre-loved and available to purchase for an excellent price.

If you're on the lookout for a stunning, second-hand wedding dress, then look no further than Pennies Vintage shop, a premium second-hand shop in London. This spot is an ode to the glamorous '20s and stocks floor-length lace-trimmed gowns, vintage frocks and a range of one-of-a-kind accessories for truly special occasions.

This second-hand spot in London's Hackney Central takes everything up a notch. It's not only a vintage shop but it's also a coffee spot and turns into a bar by night. Pick up a bargain or two before heading downstairs to catch a late-night burlesque show or comedy performance.

This Ladbroke Grove institution is a treasure trove of high-end, pre-loved goodies. Peruse the rows of sparkly jewellery, shoes and luxurious clothing, knowing that it's costing you a fraction of the price it would be new. Moreover, Lady Gaga has even swung by for a midnight browse, so you know it must be a cut above the rest.

Another one-stop shop for all things vintage and pre-loved items in London. Whether you're after a classic leather jacket or a funky festival shirt, Little Sister will undoubtedly have something second-hand that you can add to your sustainable wardrobe.

Retromania is a one-of-a-kind charity shop-style vintage store in London selling everything from dresses and menswear to accessories and shoes. All profits made here go straight to the FARA Foundation, a charity supporting Ukrainian refugees who are crossing into Romania.

Stepping into Modes & More and you'll be greeted by rows of hand-picked vintage and couture clothing as well as one-off rare pieces and accessories. This boutique store in Pimlico has remained a vintage favourite in London since it opened and is filled with pieces dating back to the '20s up to the '90s.

Choose sustainable fashion at ST Cyr Vintage, the ultimate spot for a second-hand outfit in the heart of London's borough of Camden. Whether you need a funky shirt, a pair of jazzy new sunglasses or a pre-loved pair of Levi jeans, you’ll probably be able to cop it at ST Cyr.

Located in the heart of Camden Market, What Goes Around Comes Around showcases an array of pre-loved clothing and accessories. The focal point of the collection is an homage to the 80s American style, boasting an assortment of varsity jackets, college sweatshirts, and eccentric shirts.

Brick Lane Vintage Market is one of the more iconic spots to shop for vintage clothing in London, dating from the '20s to the present day. The market is in the bustling Old Truman Brewery and is filled with pre-loved items from every decade. There's also an adjoining street food market where you can grab a post-shopping bite to eat.

Visit Magpie Vintage in Islington for unique style. This bold and bright store is all about making fashion sustainable. You'll find vintage clothing as well as ready-to-wear upcycled pieces. You can also commission a bespoke upcycled garment that perfectly fits your style. This store plants trees for every purchase - this really is fashion that does good.

Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is the world's largest antique market, running for 150+ years. It features top-notch antiques, changing traders, and vintage fashion. Weekends are when you want to pop along if you're looking for vintage treasures. Explore restored goodies, diverse collectables, and global cuisine stalls.

In 2007, Swedish stylist Ameli Lindgren established Nordic Poetry in London, which continues to serve as a hot spot for luxury pre-loved fashion. Specialising in designer vintage pieces like Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, and Christian Dior, the brand appeals to East London's musicians, artists, and fashion enthusiasts. Nordic Poetry transcends standard retail by creating an immersive atmosphere collaborating with photographers and artists to host unique events and exhibitions.

Blue 17 stocks vintage fashion for men and women from the 1940s to 2000s. Across two floors you'll find a variety of pieces, including shoes and other accessories. New stock regularly becomes available here. This store is well-established in Holloway Road, having started as a wholesale business in the 80s and opened the shop in 1994.