Vintage fashion is more than just a trend—it’s a timeless dialogue between past and present, a celebration of style reinvention, and often, a nostalgic return to those pieces we once dreamed of as teenagers leafing through glossy magazines. If you find yourself enchanted by the allure of well-worn fabrics and stories sewn into every seam, then Milan is your playground. The city isn’t just a global fashion capital; it’s now a thriving hub for vintage enthusiasts, where the streets whisper tales of sartorial history and the boutiques house treasures waiting to be rediscovered.
From tucked-away gems near the majestic Piazza Castello to the bustling lanes just steps from the Columns of San Lorenzo, Milan’s vintage scene is an essential pilgrimage for anyone with an eye for unique and authentic fashion. To navigate this sartorial landscape, we’ve collaborated with editors from Italian Vogue to curate a list of the city’s most exciting vintage stores—each offering a distinctive experience and a promise of something extraordinary.
Madame Pauline Vintage: Where Elegance Meets Eccentricity
Step into Madame Pauline Vintage, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a cavernous trove of vintage delights. Founded as a sanctuary for retro lovers and collectors, this boutique beckons to all generations—from Milan’s high-society ladies draped in heirloom bags and brooches to the avant-garde It girls who thrive on eclectic style. Each collection is meticulously curated, with custom pieces like the famed Bandana collection adding exclusive flair. Whether you’re after a silver-haired lady’s chic or a daring statement piece, Madame Pauline delivers with grace and boldness.
Location: Foro Buonaparte 74, Milan
Cavalli e Nastri Vintage: A Fashion Time Capsule
Regarded as one of Milan’s most revered vintage boutiques, Cavalli e Nastri offers more than just garments—it’s a journey through fashion history. Imagine hats reminiscent of the roaring 1920s, flouncy skirts from the 1950s, and the unapologetic glam of ’90s Versace all under one roof. This store attracts designers and stylists alike, drawn by its intimate, tea-room ambiance enhanced by soft music and carefully arranged displays that feel both personal and inviting.
Location: Via Gian Giacomo Mora, 3, Milan
Franco Jacassi Vintage Delirium: A Treasure Trove for Fashion Scholars
Established in 1985 and nestled in a quaint Milanese courtyard, Franco Jacassi’s Vintage Delirium is a veritable archive for the vintage aficionado and fashion researcher. Beyond clothing, the boutique holds an impressive collection of couture fabrics, buttons (over 50,000 designs!), antique appliqués, and magazines—making it a must-visit for those fascinated by the craft and history behind fashion.
Location: Via Giuseppe Sacchi, 3, Milan
Vincent Vintage Bijoux: Jewelry with a Story
Jewelry lovers rejoice at Vincent Vintage Bijoux, Manuel Menini’s personal cabinet of curiosities in Porta Venezia. Specializing in vintage and costume jewelry, the shop particularly celebrates Georgian-era designs, delighting those who appreciate theatrical displays and the golden age of British jewelry. Every piece tells a story, making this boutique a veritable jewel box for collectors.
Location: Via Lazzaro Spallanzani, 11, Milan
Groupies: A Playground for the Rebellious Spirit
For those who cherish street style with a nostalgic nod to the ’90s and 2000s, Groupies is a vibrant haven. It’s a shop where rebellious printed shirts meet PVC accessories straight out of manga dreams, perfect for shoppers craving a playful, youthful vibe that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Location: Via Gian Giacomo Mora, 7, Milan
PWC Milano: A Hub for the Bold and Unconventional
Nestled near Piazza XXIV Maggio, PWC Milano caters to Milan’s club kids and style risk-takers. Here, expect to find unexpected combinations—from silk slip dresses straight out of a 90s rom-com to tie-dye prints paired with patent leather platform boots. Its accessories corner, featuring Regency-style bonnets and leather brooches, adds a theatrical flourish to any outfit.
Location: Via Pietro Custodi, 12, Milan
Lipstick Vintage: Elegance in Every Era
Located on Corso Garibaldi, Lipstick Vintage balances flamboyant ready-to-wear with timeless accessories, catering to both romantics and minimalist style seekers. With muses ranging from Mona Lisa to Cate Blanchett, the boutique offers inspiration as much as it offers clothing, inviting patrons to channel their inner icon.
Location: Corso Garibaldi, 79, Milan
Bivio: Vintage with a Twist of Commerce
More than just a vintage shop, Bivio offers a unique buy-and-sell experience where fashion lovers can exchange their designer pieces for cash or store credit. The store’s carefully curated selection and welcoming approach make it a go-to for those looking to refresh their wardrobe sustainably.
Location: Via Gian Giacomo Mora, 4, Milan
20134Lambrate: A Fusion of Fashion and Design
Just steps from Via Ventura’s art and design district, 20134Lambrate blends 20th-century garments with vibrant 1980s accessories and a colorful array of furniture and décor. It’s a treasure trove not just for clothing but also for lovers of eclectic aesthetics, bridging fashion with lifestyle.
Location: Via Conte Rosso, 22, Milan
Lo Specchio di Alice: A Wonderland of the 1960s
Stepping into Lo Specchio di Alice is like tumbling down the rabbit hole into a world where the ’60s reign eternal. This boutique offers an expansive range of fashion memorabilia, from hand-painted bomber jackets to Cherokee belts, making it a paradise for those who enjoy hunting for hidden gems.
Location: Corso di Porta Ticinese, 64, Milan
Humana Vintage Milan: Fashion with a Cause
Humana Vintage Milan combines style with sustainability. This humanitarian organization channels proceeds from its curated secondhand clothing sales into projects supporting education, agriculture, and health worldwide. The boutique features a diverse range of Italian fashion from the ’60s to the present, perfect for the conscious shopper.
Location: Via Cappellari, 3, Milan
Sous Vintage Shop: Upcycled Innovation
Situated in the lively Navigli district, Sous Vintage Shop takes vintage to a new creative level. Founded by Eva Fiorucci and Carolina Ferrari, it offers not only pre-loved clothing but also showcases collections by indie creatives who transform discarded fabrics into fresh, original pieces. This space is a dynamic hub for those who cherish sustainability and innovation.
Location: Navigli District, Milan
