Overview
Much like its vinyl obsession (with the highest concentration of record stores per capita in the world), Melbourne is fevered with vintage fashion. Magpies, old souls and arbiters of taste flock here in search of archival frocks, well-worn Docs, and '70s stock — creating one of the most extensive and diverse ecosystems of vintage clothing stores in the country.
While Fitzroy and Brunswick often come to mind, it'd be remiss for serious collectors to ignore the gems hidden in unlikely neighbourhoods and unassuming buildings. From haute couture finds in halcyon Hampton, to one of the world's most comprehensive Commes des Garçons archives tucked beneath Rooftop Bar in Curtin House, Melbourne's vintage scene is rich, layered, and full of pre-loved pieces waiting to begin their next chapter.
SWOP
8 Peel St, Collingwood
As the name suggests, the Collingwood favourite — with beloved outposts in Sydney and Brisbane — invites everyday tastemakers to swap their (good-quality) clothes and accessories for cash or in-store credit. Unlike some seconds stores, SWOP doesn't take on just any Depop-friendly wardrobe — their expert curation looks for on-trend, sustainable, and archival looks from brands such as Dries Van Noten, Acne Studios, Issey Miyake and more. With swish interiors in a New York-inspired warehouse, you'll be lost in a vintage state of mind.
Paris '99
281 Hampton St, Hampton
Who knew Paris was only a 30-minute drive bayside? Since 2011, Yahav Ron, a fashion reseller and designer, has been alchemising couture looks, curating a salon-style experience for discerning sartorialists from his studio on Hampton Street. The by-appointment-only showroom exhibits Parisian flair and luxury goodness — with hard-to-source pieces in inclusive sizing (from sizes six to 16) across brands such as Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Alaia, and Tom Ford. Come for the collection, stay for the champagne service.
Lost and Found Market
288 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
To the naked eye, Lost and Found's almost as hidden as a secret garden. But to locals or those in-the-know, all it takes is an unassuming door and a flight of stairs to arrive at Fitzroy's bazaar. The vintage mecca houses everything from quirky clothing to well-loved trinkets, even groovy records, and eclectic knick-knacks for collectors and sentimentalists. Pieces come from a variety of vintage sellers, offering diverse price points, eras, and styles. A bopping soundtrack also helps you get in the mood.
Reina Melbourne
Level 3/252 Swanston St, Melbourne
Less rave cave, more whimsy — Reina embraces chic femininity with an anthology of French girl favourites. Also within Curtin House, the pastel-hued archival specialist— (founded by former Parsons School of Design student, Romy Theodore) —has everything from collared Miu Miu coats, to sought-after Prada prints, and even ballet slippers a la Chanel, all from the early 1990s to the mid-2000s. There's even a scattering of Japanese designers, such as Yohji Yamamoto, for a dollop of avant-garde.
Goodbyes
2 Johnston St, Collingwood
127 Sydney Rd, Brunswick
142 Commercial Rd, Prahran
Farewells are never easy, unless you're consigning here. If you want to give your well-worn piece a new home or adopt a new staple, Goodbyes is all about the circle of (fashion) life. With three stores across Melbourne — Brunswick, Collingwood and Prahran — there's plenty of style blueprints and brands to consider. Australian and New Zealand labels shine bright here, as do international designers. You might even pick up a rare leather bag to wear on rotation.
Retropolis
1 Newman St, Preston
If you're after something a little more camp, head to the 'burbs for a trip down the rabbit hole. The northside haunt Retropolis has all the idiosyncrasies your vintage heart (or costume party curator) could want: we're talking kitten-covered frocks, bell-bottoms, gogo boots, Roaring Twenties get-ups, and more. You might even find some home decorating inspiration here, with an assortment of mid-century furniture and bric-a-brac.
Martin Fella
556 Queensberry St, North Melbourne
Martin Fella is your favourite vintage store's favourite vintage store. Intimately located in North Melbourne, the teeny treasure trove is big on bags (vintage Celine satchel, anyone?) and archival designs. With most pieces bought at auction, whether it's Australia-wide, Asia or beyond — you're sure to get your hands on the most covetable of garments and accessories. There's also a few options for the fellas, including well-tailored suits, classic dinner shoes, and unique ties.
Irvrsbl
116 Greville Street, Prahran 3181
Designer threads and Fendi baguettes await at Prahran's Irvrsbl, a boutique vintage destination founded by devotee, Clare Ferra. Before opening the store, Ferra built a reputation sourcing museum-worthy garments for global clients (even fielding enquiries from Loewe for a rare Issey Miyake piece), before turning her focus to more accessible, on-trend finds. Named as a nod to the irreversible passing of time, Irvrsbl now showcases Gucci, Margiela, Rick Owens and other cool-girl favourites online, alongside in-person appointments and styling for dedicated dressers.
Vintage Sole
258 Brunswick St, Fitzroy
6/37 Swanston St, Melbourne
489 Chapel St, South Yarra
With a penchant for American vintage, Vintage Sole has diner-cool energy — selling everything from Levi's denim to tie-dye tees, motorcycle jackets, and even its hero item: Western boots. Founded in 2005, Vintage Sole has expanded to three stores in Fitzroy, South Yarra, and the CBD, and hand-picks from all over the world. Promising ethically sourced, timeless, and affordable clothing and accessories, rest assured that vintage lovers can build their wardrobe in slow style.
Opera
308-310 Rathdowne St, Carlton North
Housed within a repurposed Victorian terrace on Rathdowne Street, Opera's about as Melbourne as it gets. But that's where it stops — you'll find a collection so extensive and international here it'll remind you of those hazy Marais shopping days. There's Chloé, Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, and many more designers — just be mindful, items go fast. Check out the Instagram for a first-glance, first-in-best-dressed purchase.
Zinc
56 Sydney Rd, Brunswick
There's no shortage of memorable stores to check out on Melbourne's longest continuous shopping strip, Sydney Road — but if you're in a hurry, make sure Zinc's at the top of the list. With fewer international labels than others, the family-run business celebrates Australian design with bold archival pieces, homegrown designs, and locally-made basics. Tracing our fashion history, while supporting the local creative industry, you'll find vintage and second-hand Carla Zampatti and Scanlan Theodore, with a few Y2K favourites such as Miss Sixty in the mix.
Not done supporting Melbourne's independent retailers? Check out our guide to Melbourne's best boutique retailers.