When people talk about fashion in Tokyo, the words outrageous and expensive are usually not too far behind. And yes, Tokyo is known as a global fashion capital and the home to many high-end boutiques that could trouble any budget. However, there is a way to stay on the cutting edge of the fashion world without breaking your budget. Welcome to Tokyo’s vintage!
Tokyo is sprinkled with a variety of vintage shops selling the latest outfits at a cut market price. Here are the best few:
BerBerJin Laboratory
Being a tad more expensive than the two aforementioned stores, BerBerJin targets those with a little bit more to spend. However it still remains significantly cheaper than the average Tokyo boutiques. BerBerJin specializes in all types of western footwear, from Converse to Dr Marten, expect to pay around ¥8,000 for a pair of any established western brand. Helpfully BerBerJin supports an English language website that allows customers to browse all items of clothing before coming into the store. (3-26-11 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 〒150-0001)
Flamingo Junkyard
Although there are a few Flamingo stores around Tokyo, the Harakuju shop is the crème de le crème and a must visit. Flamingo specialises in high end vintage clothing primarily from the United States and Europe. The bottom floor is filled ceiling high with denim jackets and other priceless pieces of Americana. The top floor is reserved for the ladies, selling everything from kimono to short denim skirts. This branch is situated in the heart of Harakuju with two giant Flamingo’s outside the store, you can’t miss it. (1F, 4-26-28 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 〒150-0001)
Chicago
Shopping in Chicago takes a little bit of patience as there are a lot of items that you need to sift through but you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll treasure. It is significantly cheaper than other vintage shops with printed tees usually starting at around ¥1,500. Situated only a few doors down from Flamingo make sure you get there early to take advantage of the clearance sale racks that are changed most days. (4-26 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 〒150-0001)
Tamarake
Located on the second floor of an old building in Shibuya, Tamarake is literally a hidden gem. This is the place to come for all those shopping for casual street wear and retro outfits. The shop has a great atmosphere and the staff are extremely helpful and polite. Tamarake has printed tees starting from around ¥2,000 whilst the jackets are prices are reasonably at around ¥5,000. Although the store largely gravitates towards male customers, there are a few female accessories and bags. Tamarake is just a short walk from BerBerJin. However, be sure not to miss the flight of stairs that lead from the street to the stores entry on the second floor. (3-27-13, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 〒150-0001)
