I still remember the time I walked into a cocktail party decked out in what I thought was a classy, last-minute outfit: my grandfather’s old tweed jacket that I’d found at the bottom of a dusty trunk and a pair of bell-bottom pants that could rival Elvis in his heyday. 

I was convinced I’d look dapper and distinguished. Instead, my friends burst into laughter, and someone quipped, “Looks like you raided the set of ‘That ’70s Show! ”

Needless to say, I realised the importance of presentation—especially when it comes to vintage clothing. Since then, I’ve browsed around a couple of vintage stores to find better pieces for my wardrobe.

Whether you’re hunting for timeless, refined pieces or just wanting to avoid a fashion faux pas like mine, this list got you covered.

How I Chose

Authenticity: The stores selected have an eye for genuine vintage pieces that truly represent the era they come from. None of that “vintage-inspired” nonsense—only the real deal made the cut.

Quality: These shops don’t just stock anything old. We picked shops that stock items that have stood the test of time. 

Customer Experience: I’m a stickler for excellent service, so we looked for stores that offer an engaging, personable shopping experience.

Variety: Whether you’re searching for a 1920s flapper dress, a 1960s mod outfit, or some rad 1980s gear, these stores offer a diverse range of styles and eras to fit any retro craving.

1. Good Ol’ Vintage

Whether you’re hunting for that perfect 70s suede jacket, an 80s band tee that makes you look like you just stepped out of a rock concert, or some epic 90s streetwear that’s fresher than a pair of new kicks, Good Ol’ Vintage has you covered. 

They got Carhartt, Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren—you name it, they’ve probably got it. Just the other day, I scored a mint-condition starter jacket that had my friends drooling with envy.

Another thing I love? They drop new gear weekly. It’s like Christmas every week, except instead of socks from your nan, you’re getting the best vintage threads. 

And hey, they’ve got a rock-solid app too. I can browse and buy while I’m stuck in meetings pretending to take notes. Win-win!

Now, stock sells out faster than hotcakes on a Sunday. So, if you see something you love, don’t hesitate to click that ‘buy’ button, as if your life depends on it! 

Customer service is also mostly good, but I’ve had a few slow replies, especially during the holidays.

Customer Reviews

Some really great pieces, reasonably priced authentic vintage

“Such a good find. Some really great pieces, reasonably priced authentic vintage. I walked out with more than I had planned to buy.  Loving my new threads, and will be back for more. Great customer service too. Cheers team.”

• Ben Whatman Google Review 

Shipping is nice and fast too

“Really affordable, authentic stuff! Shipping is nice and fast too. I find myself buying from them every week. Good stuff”

• Jodie Kriel Google Review 

2. The Vintage Consortium

If you’re chasing unique threads with a caffeine kick, The Vintage Consortium is your dream destination. It offers racks of retro goodness and a café vibe that makes you want to ditch the modern world for good.

The store has a curated collection that’ll take you on a time-traveling rollercoaster. From groovy ’70s jumpsuits to chic ’90s leather jackets—there’s something for every fashion nostalgia trip. Some pieces are so rare that you half expect Indiana Jones to swoop in and claim them.

And the ambiance, my friends, is *chef’s kiss*. Imagine sipping on a rich flat white while digging through a treasure trove of vintage gems. The café seamlessly blends into the shopping area, providing a chill spot to recharge your shopping spirit. 

You’ll find yourself chatting with other vintage aficionados, sharing tips, and debating whether shoulder pads are making a comeback. (Spoiler: they totally are.)

Now, onto the elephant in the room: the price. Yes, some items can cost a pretty penny. But, hey, quality over quantity, right?

Customer Reviews

Was amazed at the wide range of apparel on offer

“Had the best experience at the consortium! Started with a beautifully made coffee and a nice snack. From there walked around the shop and was amazed at the wide range of apparel on offer. Leo and Zack were great and really made me feel at home while looking around! I will definitely be back”

• Brad Doyle Google Review 

 Good coffee and yum food with cool threads

“I really love this spot. Good coffee and yum food with cool threads next door! The customer service is second-to-none as well. I hate the term hidden gem but this spot really is one!”

• Matt Saunders Google Review 

3. Painted Bird Vintage Boutique & The Aviary Fitting Room

At Painted Bird Vintage Boutique & The Aviary Fitting Room, you’re stepping into a wonderland of European flair. Each rack boasts high-quality fabrics in vibrant colours and unique patterns. 

I remember snagging this striking 1970s paisley blazer that had my friends buzzing about my ‘new old’ look for weeks. Trust me, the craftsmanship and unique details on these pieces are next level.

Now, if you often find sizing decisions daunting, The Aviary Fitting Room is your new BFF. It’s private, it’s convenient, and it’s essential if, like me, you’ve played the vintage size guessing game and lost miserably before.

And the team at Painted Bird is like the fashion-savvy friends you wish you had. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to offer styling advice like, “Make that 80s tracksuit pop with these retro sneakers! ”

But the price tags on some of these pieces can make your wallet wince. Yeah, the quality and rarity justify the price, but still, prepare for a bit of sticker shock.

And beware, there’s no going back on some purchases. Yup, it’s all sales final on certain items, so make sure you’re head-over-heels before you swipe that card.

Customer Reviews

Well-curated selection vintage clothes in excellent condition

“Delightful, well curated selection vintage clothes in excellent condition. The service is fantastic and I’ve come away with an outfit that makes me feel happy, confident and more like myself. Thank you!”

• Mary McLaughlin, Google Reviews

Very unique items of clothing that are hard to find

“I had a wonderful shopping experience. Steph was honest and helpful…gave me amazing styling tips and I felt very comfortable and no pressure from her. Very unique items of clothing that are hard to find on the North Shore. Would hesitate to recommend Painted Bird”

• June C, Google Reviews

4. Vixen Vintage Boutique

Vixen Vintage Boutique is for anyone with a love for the quirky, the classic, and the downright fabulous.

From dapper suits that might just make you the next James Bond (or at least make you feel like him) to band tees that scream you’ve been a rock ‘n’ roll rebel since before it was cool, Vixen’s got you covered.

The staff here have mastered the art of balancing helpfulness without stalking you around the store. Unsure if that fedora makes you look more like Indiana Jones or more like someone trying too hard? They’ll give you the honest lowdown, and trust me, you’ll appreciate it.

Of course, prices can sometimes be jaw-dropping, especially if you’re just looking for a casual vintage find. But hey, quality ain’t cheap, and you do get what you pay for—some of these pieces look straight out of a pre-fall Gucci lookbook. 

Also, fair warning: Saturdays can be a tight squeeze. I’ve seen rugby scrums with more breathing room.

Customer Reviews

Genuine retro clothing can be found 

“The best Vintage store around.  Genuine retro clothing can be found tucked amongst the extensive racks. Definitely worth spending time browsing. Many of my favourite gems, especially t-shirts, have come from Vixen. As you would expect from a K.Rd icon.” 

• Tim Salix Google Review  

The owner was so accommodating and welcoming to everybody

“This store is brilliant. It has so many vintage gems, and maintains a fun, unique aesthetic. I bought an awesome coat here today, and the owner was so accommodating and welcoming to everybody that came in. Would highly recommend coming here- you never know what you might find!”

• Abbey Browne Google Review 

5. VINTAGELAND NZ

Here, it’s literally all about weight. Don’t worry, not yours! You pay for your clothes based on how heavy (or light) they are—a blessing for those who know how to pick the gems without dragging a wardrobe.

The store has loads of classic denim jeans, flamboyant jackets, T-shirts with quirky prints, and more. Each visit feels like a new adventure because they’re constantly refreshing their stock. 

But (there’s always a but, isn’t there?) you have to be ready to sift through the good, the bad, and the downright questionable. I’ve had days when I walked away with absolute steals and then days where I wondered if a herd of wild animals had a go at the clothes before they hit the rack. 

Now, if you’re planning to pop by on a weekend, be prepared. The place can feel like a battleground for fellow vintage enthusiasts. The layout can get a bit chaotic, too. 

And don’t get me started on the changing rooms. The wait times can be longer than a Sunday arvo nap.

Customer Reviews

A unique selection of retro and vintage pieces that you won’t find anywhere else 

“The store offers a unique selection of retro and vintage pieces that you won’t find anywhere else in the area. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, providing helpful recommendations. I was able to find some truly one-of-a-kind treasures during my visit. If you’re a vintage fashion enthusiast like me, this store is a must-visit in Auckland! Oh”

• Adnehs Google Review 

A great experience when shopping for high-quality clothes

“The best vintage clothing store in Newmarket. The workers are very kind and offers great customer service. The place has amazing atmosphere and music, which gives off a great experience when shopping for high quality clothes. Very close to the Westfield Newmarket mall and easy to be located. Definitely the best vintage clothing store available, highly suggested to shop if you are interested in vintage clothes”

• Ysaac Victa Google Review 

---