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NQ reporter discusses his top 5 Spots for vintage clothes in Manchester

  • Manchester’s Northern Quarter is the new, hip place to be when it comes to the city
  • With its vibrant graffiti, quirky coffee shops and array of bars, there is no shortage of things to see and do
  • Independent retailers are popping up all the time
  • This is NQ reporter Dom Poli's top 5 guide to finding them vintage threads without breaking the bank

1. Cow

One of the more established vintage stores in England, with shops dotted around the country, the Manchester shop is a staple go-to location for fans of vintage garments. Cow source their hand-picked stock from around the world offering unique finds from the 60’s to the 90’s. Whether it’s a one-off piece you’re looking for or a wardrobe filler, Cow always has your back.

various different vintage clothes
Just some of the clothes Cow has to offer

2. Pop Boutique

Offering an array of vintage hand-sourced clothes across the country, very similar to Cow, Pop Boutique also offers the added bonus of stocking their own uniquely manufactured clothes. Located opposite Cow, Pop Boutique is a must visit for fans of 90’s wear, as the store is full of everything, from vintage sweaters to cord trousers. Pop Boutique has really cemented itself as a flagship store in Manchester.

3. Afflecks

Afflecks is an emporium of electicism, a totem of indie commerce in Manchesters northern quarter

With over 60 independent shops situated over three floors, Afflecks really can be regarded as its own kingdom when it comes to vintage and quirky clothes. Situated in the Northern quarter, Afflecks has become base for independent retailers to trade out of, and it’s not just clothes. Expect to find everything from the weird and wonderful to the most bizarre within this three-story warehouse. No matter your style there is something for everybody.

A heart-shaped state with Manchester written in it
Afflecks Palace in the Northern Quarter

4. Retro Rehab

One of the more underground shops in the Northern Quarter, Retro Rehab exclusively offers vintage wear for women. This independent store is located in the heart of the Northern Quarter and is easily recognisable from it’s vibrant blue shop-front. If it’s big skirts and cute 80’s frocks you’re looking for, Retro Rehab is definitely the place, and it won’t break the bank in the process.

Retro Rehabs store-front, which is baby blue
Retro Rehab on Oldham Street

5. Bags of Flavours

One of Manchesters hidden treasures, nestled away down a back street lies one of Northern quarters best kept secrets, ‘Bags of flavour.’ Stocking the rarest of vintage brands, from old-school North face coats to one-of-a-kind Stone island pieces, it is safe to say that it is a must visit if you happen to be in the area. Not only that, you will find stunning hand-made bags made from vintage garms, the perfect accessory to finish off that look.