A guide to the best boutiques for one-of-a-kind vintage items around Kensington
Investing in pre-loved, great-quality pieces is an excellent step toward slowing down the fast fashion industry and decreasing our consumption. When staying at The Other House, vintage clothing shops are on your doorstep, each one boasting collections of authentic, rare pieces that will stand out in your wardrobe.
Vivienne Westwood Worlds End
Acclaimed worldwide for her exceptional designs and unconventional techniques, Vivienne Westwood is a true artist in the world of fashion. A 15-minute walk from The Other House, Vivienne Westwood Worlds End in Chelsea displays a selection of the designer’s best-loved, unisex designs. With a focus on zero-waste sustainable fashion, all pieces are made from leftover fabric from previous seasons.
430 King’s Road, SW10 0LJ
Sign of the Times
Since it opened in Chelsea in 1976, Sign of the Times has proudly served the fashionable elite and celebrity clients such as Karl Lagerfeld’s muse, the former Chanel model Kristen McMenamy. Within its colour-coordinated railings, the boutique hides treasures from some of the world’s best-loved designers, including Celine and Prada. Its expert team authenticates and values every pre-owned designer item it receives, ensuring only the best quality products make it into the boutique.
5 Elystan Street, SW3 3NT
282 Portobello
Capturing the essence of classic English elegance, 282 Portobello in Notting Hill features everything from radiant gowns fit for a ball at Kensington Palace to tweed jackets for a weekend in the country. Its vision is the simple, effortless style which has been long associated with English fashion, and its carefully chosen pieces will soon become a wardrobe staple.
282 Portobello Road, W10 5TE
Rellik
After opening in 1999, Rellik in Notting Hill became the first port of call for London’s most accomplished stylists and designers. Featuring eclectic pieces from the past 60 years, the store is a gold mine for bold, colourful dressers.
8 Golborne Road, W10 5NW
Oliver Vintage
Specialising in one-of-a-kind pieces from the Victorian era until the mid-20th century, Oliver Vintage in Notting Hill offers an immense collection of rare clothes. The epitome of high, historical fashion, it provided a beautifully-beaded 1920s flapper dress for Lady Mary Crawley, a character in the TV period drama Downton Abbey.
Unit 22, Portobello Green Arcade, 281 Portobello Road, W10 5TZ
One Vintage
One Vintage, also in Notting Hill, has redefined what it means to buy vintage, using pre-loved textiles, beading and handcrafted embroidery to create contemporary pieces while protecting and preserving the beauty of the original craftsmanship. Dedicated to slowing fashion down, procuring one of its pieces will support sustainable fashion, as well as the talented tailors and designers who craft the bespoke items.
Unit 10, Portobello Green Arcade, 281 Portobello Road, W10 5TZ
As you browse the shops, be sure to look out for blue plaques commemorating Kensington’s most famous residents.
