Picture vintage shopping in Edinburgh and what comes to mind? Tartan? Old golf clubs? Think again! Once you uncover the city’s treasure trove of eclectic boutiques and quirky vintage shops, you’ll discover unexpected finds at every turn. And don’t worry – if it’s tartan or golf gear you’re after, Edinburgh has you covered too.
And one of the best parts about shopping for vintage in Edinburgh has to be the city’s old-worldly charm. Cobbled streets and centuries old buildings create the perfect atmosphere to slow down and appreciate the stories behind each item you discover.
Simply too many to list here, we’ve chosen just a few examples of Edinburgh’s must-visit vintage shops that are sure to bring a touch of nostalgia to your shopping experience.
W. Armstrong & Son
extraordinary and exciting pieces from every decade.
83 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2HJ 14 Teviot Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2QZ,
66 Clerk Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9JB 29 Cockburn Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1BN
Locally known as Armstrongs, W. Armstrong & Son is a must-visit for anyone passionate about vintage clothing. It has been a staple of the city’s vintage scene since its establishment in 1840 and today has four shops spread across Edinburgh.
Armstrongs is not just a shop, its an experience. Time spent here feels like stepping into a time machine, with shoppers able to browse items that span decades of fashion history. A rummage through the rails can reveal everything from a 1920s cocktail dress to 1970s platform shoes, so expect to leave with full shopping bags.
Godiva
vintage clothing and sustainable fashion.
9 West Port, Edinburgh, EH1 2JA
If you’re seeking high-quality fabrics, timeless pieces and an environmentally conscious shopping experience, Godiva is the place to go.
This boutique offers hand-picked quality vintage clothing, as well as pieces by talented ethical, local and independent designers and independent brands.
Carnivàle Vintage
eclectic, bold and beautiful.
51 Bread Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9AH 21-22 Albert Place, Edinburgh, EH7 5HN
With two shops in the city, Carnivàle Vintage have an unrivalled collection of vintage womenswear and menswear, spanning 100 years from the 1890s to 1990s, and specialising in 1940s to1970s period pieces.
Perfect for fashion lovers who want to add something special to their wardrobe – be it 1960’s mod style or 1980’s punk – the curated selection caters to those looking to stand out, with statement pieces as well as accessories and jewellery.
Those Were The Days Vintage
the perfect blend of retro and nostalgia.
26 – 28 St Stephen Street, Edinburgh, EH3 5AL
Step in to the stylish and beautifully decorated Those Were The Days Vintage, and you know you’re in for a treat.
Blending vintage fashion with contemporary and high fashion style, expect to find the likes of Chanel, Dior, Versace, Jean Muir, Mary Quant and Biba, as well as high street vintage labels.
Pieces range from 1920s all the way through to the 1990s, with new items added weekly and new collections introduced seasonally. And with everything hand-selected due to its design, style, high quality and craftsmanship, you can be sure of getting something very special. Wedding bells on the horizon? Don’t miss a visit to their sister boutique, Those Were The Days Bridal for a unique range of dresses, veils, tiaras and handbags from the early 1900s to the 1990s.
Folly Antiques
bizarre and unusual pieces.
208 – 210 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH6 5EQ
For those looking to uncover intriguing and eccentric vintage, period and retro antiques, Folly Antiques is a great place for a browse.
Whether you’re in the market for jewellery, glassware, furniture, pictures, ornaments or rugs, their collection includes one-of-a-kind quirky items that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Pascal & Co
vintage pieces with personality
20 Albert Place, Edinburgh, EH7 5HN
Bringing a new lease of life to past treasures, Pascal & Co’s attention to detail, along with its commitment to sustainability, makes it a go-to destination for those seeking distinctive pieces with a modern twist on timeless style.
Each of the clothing, curated homewares, antiques and objets d’art they stock has been handpicked based on their history and craftsmanship. Each is then lovingly repaired and restored, adding a new chapter to its vintage life.
While browsing, keep an eye open for Pascal – the store’s four-legged furry employee – who inspired the name of the shop!
So, take time to wander into Edinburgh’s vintage havens – you never know what treasures you’ll uncover!
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
