A nose for a good vintage

Vintage classics at Red, Stoke Newington

There are numerous vintage shops in Hackney, but they are not always easy to find – many do not have websites and are hidden away. Stoke Newington Church Street is a good place to start; it has a number of shops selling vintage clothes within a few yards of each other.

We tried Dirty Blonde at Red, 129 Stoke Newington Church Street, an absolute treasure trove bursting with clothes, shoes and accessories which were reasonably priced and well cared for. It is worth a visit merely to have a peek in the shop itself, with its tin-foiled ceiling and kitschy décor and to chat with the unfailingly lovely staff.

The other shops on the road are Ribbons & Taylor Vintage Clothing at number 157 which is smaller but has a larger selection for men and Strut at number 182 which deals in vintage designer (with prices to match, but still much cheaper than buying new). The good thing about spending your money in shops like these is that along with the undoubtedly unique garment you get, you are also supporting Hackney’s independent local retailers.

Vintage shops are good because the clothes have already been picked out by someone, but if you have the stamina, it is in charity shops that the best bargains are to be had. Hackney has no shortage of such shops, full of very cheap unwanted clothes just waiting to be found.

If it is important you keep up with the latest fashions, then surely you must want more than simply to dress like everybody else. When you wear something vintage you are wearing something you rummaged for, something you found and loved and that no one else will be wearing. Yes, it is more effort to shop vintage, but wouldn’t you rather be stylish than fashionable?