Shimokitazawa, located in Tokyo’s Setagaya ward, is a vibrant and bohemian neighborhood known for its vintage fashion, indie bookstores, and eclectic cafes. In this bustling area, speed is of the essence when you stumble upon something you adore.
Allow me to recount a personal experience: During one of my early visits to Shimokitazawa, renowned for its unique finds, I stumbled upon a pristine Louis Vuitton Reade patent leather tote on a store shelf. Its exquisite bronze monogram pattern caught my eye, and to my astonishment, it was priced at a mere 21,900 yen. Convinced that I would find another equally remarkable item, I exercised restraint and decided against purchasing it. Little did I know that within a mere two hours, the bag would vanish, forever eluding my grasp.
That day taught me a valuable lesson, and I have since become a seasoned shopper in Shimokitazawa, attuned to the ever-changing rhythm of its racks. Getting lost amidst the plethora of shops is all part of the thrill, as this neighborhood is a haven for those seeking their next favorite vintage piece. It offers an impressive array of second-hand clothing and accessories from the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s.
Shimokitazawa is an integral part of Tokyo’s thriving vintage luxury scene, where Japanese individuals meticulously care for their belongings and sell them when they are no longer in heavy rotation. Consequently, it should come as no surprise that the neighborhood is well-stocked with renowned brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, alongside an array of one-of-a-kind items. For visitors to the Japanese capital seeking preloved luxury, I recommend exploring the following four addresses as a starting point.
If you are thrifty and seeking wearable American vintage, Flamingo is the perfect store for you. Its vibrant racks showcase a curated collection of clothes hand-picked by an intrepid US-based buyer. From the timeless elegance of the 1940s to the funky vibes of the 1980s, Flamingo is a treasure trove of American vintage that seamlessly blends new trends with timeless Americana. Expect to find unexpected homeware treasures and quirky knits, all at affordable prices, especially if you time your visit right to catch one of their legendary sales.
For those inclined towards streetwear, Harajuku Chicago is a must-visit. With a diverse collection of vintage clothing sourced from Japan, the US, and Europe, this store has been a mainstay since its establishment in 1983. From Levi’s denim and graphic T-shirts to cozy sweatshirts and ’90s streetwear, Harajuku Chicago offers a range of styles with a nostalgic, beachy vibe. Additionally, the store boasts an extensive selection of traditional Japanese garments, footwear, obi belts, and accessories, all of which make fantastic souvenirs.
For a delightful blend of high-end and affordable items, look no further than 2nd Street. Regarded as one of Japan’s best consignment shops, the Shimokitazawa branch is a standout destination. Spanning two floors, it stocks both branded and non-branded apparel, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts. The store features a well-organized collection of sneakers, ranging from classics to limited-edition releases, as well as a timeless assortment of watches. Bargains on top brands are not uncommon here, as I personally discovered when the LV patent leather tote caught my eye.
Finally, if you seek designer finds in impeccable condition, Ragtag is the place to be. This renowned chain of high-end second-hand clothing stores lives up to its reputation in Shimokitazawa. It offers an impressive collection of global labels such as Acne Studios, Ralph Lauren, Stüss..
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