This Giant London Market Is One Of The Best For Vintage Clothes And Unique Antiques

Today, London is an international hub and one of the world's best cities for shopping. The bustling city's influence on architecture, art, and fashion is nothing new. Style seekers have looked to Londoners for inspiration and guidance for centuries, and fashion has helped shape London into the thriving city we know and love.

In the Medieval Period, London became one of the major exporters of silk, wool, embroidery, and fur that was used to create clothing for wealthy royals all over Europe, and London's kings and queens set the style standards for the rest of the globe. The Elizabethan Era (named for Queen Elizabeth I) is often used to describe the style of Tudor Europe, and the Victorian Era (named for Queen Victoria) is known for its iconic architecture and recognizable fashion. Throughout the 19th century, the styles shifted from decade to decade, and it was in World War II-era London that women's pants first became socially acceptable. From the Mods of the '60s to the Punks of the '70s, London's fluctuating trends have left a lasting imprint on global fashion.

London is a paradise for fashion-forward shoppers. Oxford Street is known as the busiest shopping street in Europe, but if you prefer a bit of history with your fashion (or you favor unique finds over trendy fast fashion), head straight to Portobello Road. The bustling market street is lined with shops and stalls full of vintage and antique treasures spanning the decades of London's fashion history.

There's something to suit every taste in the bustling city. For lovers of vintage and bohemian fashion, Portobello Road reigns supreme. Located in West London, it is one of the most iconic markets in the world, and it has been around for nearly 150 years. Once an obscure road, it transformed into a bustling shopping market in the 19th century where fresh food was sold. By the second half of the 20th century, Portobello Road was already known as an excellent place to shop for antiques. In the '60s and '70s, it became a hub for music, art, and culture, as live music venues and record shops began to open along the street and creative types took up residences in the area. Now, it's a London attraction you won't want to miss and a great place to go shopping — even if you're on a tight budget. 

Over the years, Portobello Road has gained a stylish reputation. It has been frequented by style icons like Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and Florence Welch. You'll catch glimpses of the lively street in heartwarming films like "Notting Hill" and "Paddington Bear." Locals, tourists, and celebrities brush shoulders as they sift through the racks for one-of-a-kind vintage finds and admire dusty antique treasures. If you're looking to spend an unforgettable day shopping or return home with the perfect souvenir to remember your travels through the United Kingdom, Portobello Road is a must-visit destination.

Fridays and weekends are indisputably the best time to visit Portobello Road. Saturday markets are particularly lively, as that is the day that most antique dealers set up their booths. You'll find endless stalls set up all along Portobello Road and Kensington Park Road, and even more vintage booths are scattered across Portobello Green. On weekdays, you'll still find some vintage and antique stalls set up, but there will be a lot more people selling food. Expect big crowds on Saturdays and a friendly but competitive spirit amongst locals when it comes to finding the best vintage. If you're looking to find the best treasures, arrive early! The market opens around 8 a.m., and you'll want to budget at least a few hours to experience it. During my last visit, I ended up canceling the rest of my itinerary for the day and shopped until I dropped.

Even if you aren't lucky enough to visit Portobello Road on a market day, it's worth making the trip. The street is lined with permanent vintage and antique shops that are open every day of the week. For jaw-dropping designer vintage, book an appointment at One of a Kind Archive, which has a collection of over 5,000 items. Celebrities, museum curators, and stylists are among the clientele. 282 Portobello and Karen Vintage Boutique sell gorgeous clothing at multiple price points. For antiques, head to Alice's, which has a delightful assortment of home goods, furniture, and decor.