Milan might be the home of top fashion brands, but its passion for vintage is blossoming and making its mark on the city. Catering for a city of discerning taste, vintage stores showcase carefully curated pieces in excellent condition.
It’s where luxury, a taste of the eclectic, and timeless elegance merge…
Let’s explore Milan’s wealth of fashion history & style through our
official MWN photographer Sydney’s chosen selection of top vintage stores.
You’re bound to find one that caters to your unique sense of style and personal expression.
Written & photographed by: Sydney Duncan (founder of ethical fashion brand Sydney Duncan)
"East Market", Milano
Amid Milan's chic boutiques and high-end ateliers, vintage enthusiasts will find much to celebrate.
Known for its charming, tucked-away storefronts, this fashion capital provides a distinctive shopping experience for those who appreciate luxury fashion and its rich history.
Known for its discerning clientele, Milan's vintage scene emphasizes quality over quantity. Many shops feature meticulously curated collections, often showcasing designer brands and pieces in excellent condition. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from classic handbags to exquisite accessories, all embodying the city's timeless elegance—and, naturally, the premium price tags that are part and parcel of Milanese fashion.
Let’s explore some of Milan’s standout vintage shops, where each store provides a unique window into the city’s fashion history and style evolution.
1. Don't Waste
Instagram: @dontwasteofficial
Location: Ripa di Porta Ticinese, 117
Best For: Luxury and reworked pieces
"Don't Waste", Milano
Don’t Waste offers an inviting entrance into the world of thoughtful fashion. Inside, you'll find a sophisticated mix of reworked garments and exclusive designer brands.
The shop’s classic high-end aesthetic emphasizes both vintage charm and contemporary elegance.
Located along one of Milan's picturesque canals, Don’t Waste stands out for its stunning collection of vintage and upcycled fashion.
The store features reimagined classics and one-of-a-kind garments, all presented with a focus on unique style and sustainability. Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate the shop's commitment to both quality and eco-friendly practices.
2. Union Fade Store
Instagram: @unionfadestore
Location: Via Giovanni Battista Morgagni, 31
Best For: High-quality, Western-style fashion
"Union Fade Store" , Milano
"Union Fade Store" , Milano
Union Fade wasn’t originally on my Milan vintage itinerary, but a serendipitous visit quickly made it one of my top discoveries in the city.
Having grown up in the southern United States, I find the store's "American Cowboy" style both nostalgic and intriguing—an appreciation that only developed after spending several years abroad.
The store’s rustic, authentic ambiance is enhanced by quirky Western-themed decor, making browsing a charming experience. Each item, from rugged denim jackets and sturdy leather boots to classic plaid shirts, is chosen for its quality and craftsmanship.
Union Fade combines a sophisticated nod to American heritage with a modern, upscale twist, offering more than just vintage clothing—it delivers a unique shopping experience that evokes adventure and nostalgia.
Despite its rugged charm, the store operates at a high-end level, with prices reflecting its premium offerings.
3. Black Ship
Instagram: @blackship_vintage
Location: Via Giovanni Enrico Pestalozzi, 4
Best For: Vintage designer pieces with character
"Black Ship", Milano
Black Ship presents a more understated vintage experience with relaxed decor that contrasts with the high caliber of its selection.
The store features high-end vintage pieces with distinctive character, including favorites like a Fiorucci pouch and a sheer Jean Paul Gaultier top.
The standout item for me was a well-structured blazer and trousers set that tested my willpower.
The service at Black Ship is equally noteworthy, with a helpful staff enhancing the overall vintage treasure-hunting experience.
4. The Cloister
Instagram: @thecloister.milano
Location: Via Valpetrosa, 5
Best For: Vintage meets contemporary design
"The Cloister", Milano
Bathed in natural light and surrounded by lush greenery, The Cloister is one of the most aesthetically captivating vintage shops in Milan, if not in all of Italy. It embodies a concept store approach, blending vintage with contemporary design.
Aside from vintage itself, the shop offers a diverse range of items, including mid-century modern furniture, home accessories, and contemporary designer pieces.
It also features a large space for magazines and books from independent publishers, along with regular exhibitions and events celebrating art, design, and fashion.
5. East Market Shop
Instagram: @eastmarketshop
Location: Via Bernardino Ramazzini, 6
Best For: Eclectic vintage and independent maker goods
"East Market", Milano
The East Market Brand has quickly established itself as a premier destination for vintage fashion in Milan. This flagship store is among the coolest storefronts I’ve explored since moving to the city. Having previously participated in their famous warehouse market (more on Milan’s best vintage markets in the extended cut), I had high expectations for their shop, which were more than met.
The store offers an eclectic array of vintage and independent maker goods, featuring a curated selection of unique finds. A standout feature is the collection of monochromatic Virgin Mary statues, adding a pop art element to the shop’s decor.
Their vintage selection includes carefully chosen items such as retro band tees, university-style sweatshirts, and quirky dresses. East Market Shop is a must-visit for anyone seeking rare fashion gems or distinctive home decor.
A Vintage Scene All Milan’s Own
In summary, while Milan may not yet rival Tokyo as the ultimate vintage destination, the city offers its own unique take on vintage shopping.
With a refined approach and higher price tags, Milan’s vintage shops provide a sophisticated charm that's distinctly Milanese.
Whether you’re uncovering rare fashion finds or exploring unique store environments, Milan’s vintage scene is rich and diverse, offering something special for every enthusiast.
Proofread and edited by Ché Milani
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