My Top 5 Bristol Charity and Vintage Shops

Instagram @may_garland

The student budget does not support high-end couture, but the eclectic mix of vintage and charity boutiques in Bristol more than satisfy my fashion needs. Here are my top favourites that provide an alternative shopping experience to Cabot Circus and allow me to maintain my style without delving too far into my bank account.

BS8
Park Street

This independent shop is no stranger to the student population, the combination of vintage and high-street clothing perfectly marries high-quality with affordable prices. BS8 always supplies right-on-trend fashion that often features designer clothes but at a hugely discounted price.

Uncle Sam's American Vintage
Park Street

Instagram @unclesamsvintage

This is one of the longest-running vintage shops in Bristol, and it's obvious to see why! This store is fit to burst with Californian authentic clothing, possessing items that date from the 1940s to the '80s. Although locating pieces may be chaotic, the retro embellishments, vintage vinyl and nostalgic charm make the whole shopping experience worthwhile.

Jemima Rose Vintage
Clifton Arcade

                                      

Amongst the beautiful French furniture of this boutique is a treasure trove for high-quality vintage garments that date back as far as the Roaring Twenties. I have even seen stock that includes pieces from designers such as Vivienne Westwood and Marc Jacobs, with an abundant array of retro accessories to accompany this. Although this store is on the pricier range of charity shops, there is a guarantee on pristine condition.

Beyond Retro
Broadmead

Instagram @beyondretro

My friends and I have spent an entire day hunting through mountains of retro patterns and creating our own runway catwalk down the shop floor. This store celebrates individuality with its recycled, vibrant collection of all kinds of 20th-century fashion. I can almost guarantee that you will find a new, quirky favourite for your wardrobe.  

Fox and Feather 
Stokes Croft

In the hub of independent stores lies this hidden gem that prides itself on non-conformity and refuses to follow the high street trends. The independent lifestyle brand is crafted from a mix of local designers from Gloucester Road and displays fashion brands from across Europe, with a big focus on sourcing unique and sustainably produced clothing that includes zero plastic. I love how forward-thinking this vintage shop is!

Supporting vintage boutiques not only rewards you with stand-out, stylish pieces but also encourages society's direction towards a more sustainable future. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting in the world with 95% of clothes getting thrown away, so purchasing and donating garments in charity shops rehomes unwanted clothes and makes fabulous vintage pieces available!

Thanks for reading <3