Thrifted Cities: London

Cat Falvey
May 8, 2020
3 min read

No matter where I go, I find a way to shop. With the rise of eco-consciousness in the fashion industry, second-hand items have found a place in the forefront of style. There is something magical about a thrift shop in a new city, which is why I make it a point to explore the second-hand scene everywhere I travel.

📍 Shoreditch, London, UK @catherine_falvey

I spent a semester in London last year as a student. I cringe as I type the cliche of the century, but this experience truly did change my life. Fashion exploration comprised a significant part of my time across the pond. London has one of the best thrift store scenes I have had the pleasure of encountering, so I want to now share some of my favorite spots throughout the city.

1. Rokit: Camden

225 High Street, London, NW1 7BU

PHOTO: Pinterest

I can't lie. My love for this grungy vintage shop might have something to do with the gorgeous tatted sales associate whom I may or may not have fallen in love with while browsing the store. Aside from the experience itself, I found some of my most essential pieces here.

2. Rokit: Covent Garden

42 Shelton Street, London, WC2H 9HZ

PHOTO: Condé Nast Traveller

Although this is simply another location under the same brand, the Rokit in Covent Garden exudes a vibe much different than that of its sister in Camden. This shop provides trendier clothing and a wider selection of recycled items. I got the cutest purple beanie here that was made from recycled materials.

3. Beyond Retro

110-112 Cheshire St, London, E2 6EJ

PHOTO: Yelp

Ask anyone who has shopped for vintage clothing in London, and they will tell you to visit Beyond Retro. My first time at this upcycled utopia was on a class field trip. I made a handful of trips back throughout the rest of my time in London and picked up a slew of graphic tees, jeans and accessories.

4. Absolute Vintage

14 Hanbury St, Spitalfields, London, E1 6QR

PHOTO: Visit London

Absolute Vintage was a dark horse during my time in London. The single time I perused its racks made enough of an impression on me to include it in this list. Although the prices here are higher than those of the shops in Covent Garden and Camden, AV has a vast selection of high quality vintage pieces that can elevate any wardrobe.

5. Camden Market

Camden Market, Camden Lock Place, London, NW1 8AF

PHOTO: Tilly Travels

As every travel website and tourist will tell you, a trip to London is not complete without checking out Camden Market. This seemingly endless shopping sanctuary has an incredibly extensive collection of handmade, vintage and locally produced items. Camden Market is almost inexplicable -- you simply have to see it for yourself.

6. Time Tunnel Vintage

Unit D04, Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, London, NW1 8AH

PHOTO: Camden Market Official Website

I came across this gem on an evening out in Camden. Before grabbing a drink at Amy Winehouse's favorite bar, The Hawley Arms, my roommates and I browsed the stalls at Camden Market. Time Tunnel Vintage is the perfect place to find vintage outerwear and shoes.

7. Vintage Basement

7 Cheshire St, London, E2 6ED

PHOTO: Trover

Vintage Basement can be found in a long line of outdoor stalls and vintage shops in Shoreditch. Amidst the colorful line of shops in this outdoor market, Vintage Basement has an array of unique pieces that are certainly one of a kind.

If you want to see more of my style, follow me on Instagram @catfalvey.