A Guide to Florence’s Best Vintage Stores
Florence is known worldwide for being the cradle of the Renaissance; it overflows with celebrated art landmarks, originating the nickname “la Bella”. The city is not only an ideal destination for art history enthusiasts but fashion lovers too. Historically home to famous Italian fashion designers, from Ferragamo to Gucci, Florence has also become the mecca for vintage devotees.
Over the last few years, the city has welcomed several second-hand shops that offer a unique range of quality pieces to suit every pocket, from high-end to affordable. Moreover, one of the most prestigious international vintage fairs, called Vintage Selection, takes place in Florence twice a year, bringing together collectors from around the world.
Bonus point, vintage clothing is also environmentally more sustainable than new one. When buying used garments, you stretch their life cycle and therefore exponentially reduce the Earth’s carbon footprint. If you enjoy hunting for the perfect second-hand garment or accessory and browse through different style eras, you better save this list of the best vintage shops in Florence.
Florence Vintage Fashion Tour
On this private vintage fashion tour, our fashion specialists will lead you to unique second-hand vendors in the city and help you with your treasure hunting skills. Joining our vintage fashion tour feels like traveling in time. You will have fun discovering Italian one-of-a-kind vintage clothing, shoes, bags, accessories from different eras like locals do!
Il Mercatino di Ninni
Via dei Federighi, 11/r
mercatinodininni.it
This Florentine boutique takes its name from its owner, Ninni, a former model and now turned vintage collector. Thanks to Ninni’s contacts in Paris and Milan, items often arrive at the shop straight from runways and showrooms. The store boasts a finely curated Italian vintage selection, spanning from the 1960s to the 1990s. Bottega Veneta, Valentino, Emilio Pucci, Fendi are only a few of the luxury labels you will be able to find inside. Florentine women of all ages and sizes stop by to refresh their wardrobes, so make sure to visit Ninni on your next trip to Florence and get your closet a vintage upgrade!
Melrose Vintage
Via de’ Ginori, 18r and Largo Fratelli Alinari, 8
facebook.com/melrosevintagefirenze/
Melrose Vintage has been the lighthouse for second-hand lovers in Florence since 1988. In an eccentric and all-American style frame, with wooden floors and a reminiscing old wild west saloon ambiance, you will find an impressive selection of clothing and accessories at inexpensive rates. They offer classic Barbour jackets, 501 Levis jeans, ’80s sweaters, colorful shirts, and more at both their locations. If you’re looking for some extra fun, you can go into their back rooms and browse in their large clothing bins! If you’re lucky, you can treasure a cool outfit for a few euros.
FLY Fashion Store
Borgo Pinti, 20/red
fashionlovesyou.it
FLY is the consignment shop run by the students of Florence University of the Arts. This fashion boutique is by far one of the most adorable and affordable stores in Florence. They offer a combination of vintage clothing and accessories and student’s original work. All proceeds go to funding the school and encouraging young designers to create more looks. We highly recommend this boutique not only because of its affordability but also because of its mission. This is a must-see if you are spending any time in Florence. Stop by FLY to shop fantastic vintage pieces, sell clothes through consignment, and check out students’ designs!
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Lady Jane B
Via dei Pilastri, 32B
instagram.com/ladyjanebvintage
This shop is a hidden gem in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood in Florence; the perfect secret spot Florentine women have been keeping for years. Inside this teeny-tiny store, the owner, Sabrina, is always ready to welcome her customers and give them impeccable style advice. She travels to London, Paris, and Berlin to find the best vintage clothing, bags, and accessories. Her mission is to provide women the chance to wear unique clothing at low prices; that’s why at Lady Jane B you will be able to shop without breaking the bank, with prices competing with Zara and H&M. Check out Lady Jane B and buy one-of-a-kind items!
Recollection
Via dei Serragli, 22R
recollectionvintageflorence.com
Recollection is an exceptional vintage boutique founded by Albrici, a family of antique dealers who has been in business since 1961. The curated selection of vintage dresses and accessories is scattered throughout the store alongside furniture, mirrors, and chandeliers. The collection comes from the research of pieces from the most fabulous designers in fashion history as well as from the handmade sartorial production of the past, in an emotional time traveling of shapes, colors, and textiles. This narrative also includes various costume jewelry, purses, scarves, and hats to mix in a complete vintage outfit.
Boutique Nadine
Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 22/red
boutiquenadine.com
Boutique Nadine is for you if you enjoy a store mixed with current fashion and collectible vintage pieces. Established in 2006 by Irene Zarrilli, the store is just a few steps from the famous Ponte Vecchio, featuring a fantastic collection of vintage items, plus a mix of high-end brand accessories alongside emerging fashion designers. The shop thrives with unique items sourced on Irene’s travels through Italy and Europe: rows of new clothing alongside carefully selected vintage accessories and jewelry. With a large mix of Italian labels, both old and new, Boutique Nadine it’s a treasured find for the fashion-minded in Florence.
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Tartan Vintage
Via dei Palchetti, 5/5a
facebook.com/tartanvintage
You absolutely have to pay a visit to Tartan Vintage to experience London in the 19th century while being in Florence. The store is filled with very British-style pieces with a history meant to be worn and loved. Valentina, the shop owner, has a deep passion for vintage fashion and is always keen on giving recommendations to all her customers. Have fun trying on checkered vests, gentlemens’ trench coats, tennis sweaters that are all artistically showcased. Don’t miss this store, nestled in a dead-end street, in the center of Florence!
If you enjoy hunting for the perfect second-hand garment or accessory and browse through different style eras, you better save this list of the best vintage shops in Florence.
