Going prop shopping for photo shoots can be fun! If you’re looking for thrifty treasures and vintage value, you can’t beat these five cities for the best vintage shops. I’ve chosen them for the pretty, quirky, can’t-find-it-anywhere-else nature of the shopping in that city. Whether you live in one of these cultural hubs or are just visiting, pack extra room in your bag to pick up these fun finds for your next photo shoot or latest prop collection.
London
One of the premiere fashion cities in the world, London is a fabulous place for vintage finds. Whether you’re looking for old wares or gorgeous duds, you’ll find them among its vast array of shops. Want to get all fancy? Check out The Dresser, with a huge collection of designer brands. In need of props to set the scene? Head to Northcote Road Antiques Market to stock up on old furniture, vintage china, mirrors and lighting, and jewelry to dress your models in high style.
Singapore
Because the concept of giving away still-useful items is one that only arises in developed countries, Asia is new to the secondhand scene, but Singapore is riding the tide like a pro. Check out the New2U Thrift Shop, which is run entirely by volunteers and contains a wide range of clothing, furniture, books and more. Next head to the Salvation Army for a cheap array of items for your next Far East-themed shoot.
Prague
Another fashion hub, Prague is a good place to find ritzy accessories and clothing for a photography shoot. Try Prague Thrift Store, with rows upon rows of clothes, books, shoes and more, or Textile House, which opened its doors in 2010 and now has 11 shops across the city.
Rio de Janeiro
This notorious party city is so closed-fisted with its old-timey wares that the best shopping locations change from day to day, and you can never tell what you’re going to get until you actually step foot inside its borders. Fun, right? According to the Rio Times, the best places to look are in Centro (downtown), the Feira do Rio Antigo, which takes place the first Saturday of every month, and Totolinha-Moda Alternativa, a famous alternative destination.
San Francisco
Okay, okay, this one’s kind of a gimme. But San Francisco is a wonderful place to stock up on amazing vintage, and I love two shops in particular. The first is Pretty Penny, which focuses on chic girly style. The second, and possibly one of the most amazing stores on the planet, is Reliquary, which sources vintage pieces with Southwestern flair. Think turquoise, gold and other pieces with a desert feel. Can’t go wrong.
Next time you plan a trip to collect props for your photo shoots, stop by these shops and check out their offerings. When you come back with beautiful pieces you couldn’t find right at home, you’ll be glad you did.
Photos:
Retro Shopping: Copyright – Kho
London: Copyright – Alex Loban
Singapore: Copyright – Panithan Fakseemuang
Prague: Copyright – Rostislav Glinsky
Vintage Travel: Vladimir Nikulin