Top 5 Vintage Stores to Visit During Your European Travels
Written By: Jacqueline Rappa
Europe’s charming vintage clothing scene is a must-explore for any fashion lover heading on a travel adventure. Whether you're strolling through Parisian boutiques or visiting London's retro hotspots, Europe offers a wealth of unique finds and classic designer pieces. Immerse yourself in the rich history and elegance of European style with these must-visit highlights:
Lovers Lane
In the heart of Notting Hill, you will find a meticulously curated collection of high-fashion pieces at Lovers Lane Vintage. Located along Portobello Road Market, one of the world’s most famous vintage shopping destinations, Lovers Lane catches the eye with its distinctive blue exterior. Run by a mother-daughter team with a deep passion for all things vintage, Lovers Lane offers not only exquisite clothing and accessories but also a welcoming environment for customers. Here, you are inspired to discover your personal style through timeless pieces straight from the runway.
The team takes a personalized approach, going the extra mile to ensure every visit is memorable. Whether they’re helping you find the perfect fit, sharing the story behind a particular piece, or offering expert styling advice, they make each customer feel at home. Lovers Lane is the ultimate destination for uncovering treasures and archival pieces, from couture coats to those Dior pumps you have always wanted. The curation of items is simply impeccable, making it a must-visit spot for vintage fashion lovers
goodJo
Step into a world of timeless elegance at goodJo, a high-end second-hand boutique in Paris, where fashion enthusiasts fall in love with rare vintage finds. Founded by a former fashion industry insider, goodJo offers an expertly curated selection of designer pieces that will elevate your wardrobe and make you feel effortlessly chic.
Whether you're searching for a classic Dior suit or a Chanel baguette bag, goodJo promises an unforgettable shopping experience. In fact, many of the iconic looks from Emily in Paris were sourced right here. During your time in Paris, don’t miss the chance to explore this gem—where each piece tells a story and adds a touch of Parisian culture to your closet.
Not Too Sweet
Not Too Sweet, a BIPOC, female-owned sustainable fashion brand, has established itself as a vibrant part of Berlin's fashion scene, with two locations across the city. Specializing in vintage clothing, sustainable jewelry, and reworked pieces from local designers, Not Too Sweet goes beyond just offering exceptional, eco-friendly fashion. When you visit in person, you can try on their carefully curated pieces and connect with the owner and staff, who are dedicated to fostering a personal shopping experience.
What sets Not Too Sweet apart is its commitment to community engagement. They regularly host workshops that invite customers to participate in sustainable practices and learn new skills. Their Lost Wax Carving Workshop, for instance, offers a hands-on glimpse into the world of jewelry design, allowing participants to create their own pieces from scratch. The atmosphere in their shops is relaxed, eclectic, and welcoming, encouraging visitors to take their time exploring the diverse selection of thoughtfully chosen vintage items. If you want to continue shopping here after you visit Berlin, you can explore all the best pieces on their website.
BIVIO
With four locations across the city, BIVIO Milano offers a one-of-a-kind second-hand shopping experience. Each store is stocked with thousands of hand-selected pieces, with new items arriving daily, ensuring the inventory is always fresh and dynamic. This constant rotation of merchandise reflects not just the latest trends, but also the character of the surrounding neighborhood and the personal styles of the clients who contribute to the collection.
What truly sets BIVIO Milano apart is its direct-to-client model. BIVIO purchases its merchandise directly from the individuals who walk through its doors, creating a connection between the store and its community. Customers bring in the clothes and accessories they no longer wear—or perhaps never wore—giving these pieces a second life. BIVIO encourages sellers to bring in a mix of vintage and in-season items, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection.
Whether you’re searching for iconic luxury brands like Burberry and Celine, or you’re on the lookout for workwear trends, cashmere sweaters, or that perfect trench coat, BIVIO Milano offers a curated selection that caters to a wide range of tastes and styles. Each visit promises a new find, making it the perfect destination for fashion enthusiasts who appreciate quality, sustainability, and the thrill of uncovering something truly special.
Pandora Dress Agency
Nestled on a quiet street in Knightsbridge, London, Pandora Dress Agency is a hidden gem for vintage designer fashion. Since its establishment in 1947, this boutique has been offering designer-label merchandise at a fraction of its original price. The shop is filled with an impressive collection of pre-owned vintage pieces and accessories, with a particular focus on iconic styles from the 60s and 70s. You can find everything from Louis Vuitton handbags, Hermès scarves, couture Dolce & Gabbana dresses, and much more.
Pandora Dress Agency is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates high-quality, curated fashion. Whether you’re hunting for vintage treasures, luxury consignment finds, or wardrobe staples, Pandora Dress Agency delivers a well-curated shopping experience. The dress agency even features an entire section dedicated to Chanel tweed. Located just a few blocks from Harrods, the area is known for its upscale shopping and cultural attractions. Be sure to explore the carefully curated selection of wardrobe staples and don’t miss the shoe section tucked away at the back of the shop!
From the quaint, hidden spots of Milan to the bustling streets of Berlin, each vintage shop brings its own flair to the world of fashion. European cities invite you to explore and connect with fashion in a deeply personal way. Embrace the journey and let the timeless allure of European vintage fashion inspire your wardrobe.
