Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), nestled between Sydney and Melbourne. Unlike other Australian cities, Canberra was purpose-built as the nation’s capital in 1913 and was designed by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin. With a population of around 460,000, Canberra is renowned for its clean, organized layout, green spaces, and numerous cultural institutions, including the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Parliament House. The city has a rich history tied to Australia’s political and cultural development. Canberra is also recognized for its vibrant arts scene, festivals, and a growing appreciation for sustainable living, which includes a strong interest in vintage fashion.
Vintage clothing stores in Canberra cater to fashion enthusiasts who appreciate timeless pieces, unique styles, and sustainable shopping options. From high-end vintage boutiques to casual thrift stores, Canberra offers a range of options for those looking to add some retro flair to their wardrobe. Below is a detailed look at some of the city’s top vintage stores.
1. Dirty Janes Canberra
Overview
Dirty Janes Canberra is a vintage emporium that has been a favorite among Canberra’s retro enthusiasts since it opened in 2016. The store is known for its sprawling space, filled with curated collections of vintage clothing, accessories, and furniture. Dirty Janes offers a variety of vintage fashion styles, including retro dresses, jackets, and quirky accessories. The store features different stalls where independent vendors showcase their vintage wares, ensuring that the inventory is constantly refreshed. It’s a one-stop-shop for those looking for both vintage fashion and home décor.
Year Founded
2016
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, jackets, accessories, home décor.
- Eras: 1950s to 1980s.
Street Address
80 Collie Street, Fyshwick, Canberra, ACT, Australia
2. Lost Vintage
Overview
Lost Vintage is a popular destination for those seeking unique, pre-loved fashion from the past. Opened in 2015, this boutique offers a wide range of high-quality vintage clothing, from chic blouses and stylish coats to vintage jewelry and shoes. Lost Vintage is known for its excellent selection of retro pieces from the 60s and 70s, making it a favorite among Canberra’s fashion-forward crowd. The shop’s minimalist aesthetic allows the carefully curated clothing to take center stage, and its friendly staff are always available to offer styling advice.
Year Founded
2015
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Blouses, coats, shoes, jewelry.
- Eras: 1960s to 1980s.
Street Address
Garema Place, Civic, Canberra, ACT, Australia
3. Designer Op Shop Emporium
Overview
Designer Op Shop Emporium is a vintage lover’s paradise, offering a mix of designer pre-loved clothing and affordable thrift items. Since its establishment in 2017, the store has been a go-to spot for those seeking stylish, sustainable fashion. Designer Op Shop Emporium specializes in vintage designer pieces, with a wide variety of clothing, shoes, and accessories from well-known brands. The store also features local designers who upcycle vintage garments into contemporary pieces, ensuring a modern twist on classic looks. It’s a perfect stop for fashionistas looking for rare and luxurious finds.
Year Founded
2017
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Designer clothing, shoes, accessories, upcycled pieces.
- Eras: 1970s to 2000s.
Street Address
8/24 Iron Knob Street, Fyshwick, Canberra, ACT, Australia
4. April’s Caravan Vintage
Overview
April’s Caravan Vintage is a boutique that has been serving the Canberra vintage community since 2014. Known for its curated selection of vintage and retro fashion, April’s Caravan focuses on unique, high-quality pieces that stand the test of time. The store offers a wide range of clothing, including feminine dresses, bold jackets, and eye-catching accessories. April’s Caravan also has a distinct bohemian flair, catering to those who love mixing eclectic styles from different decades. The shop is perfect for those looking to find a one-of-a-kind vintage item in a welcoming and stylish environment.
Year Founded
2014
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, jackets, accessories, shoes.
- Eras: 1960s to 1980s.
Street Address
10 Lonsdale Street, Braddon, Canberra, ACT, Australia
5. Salvos Stores Fyshwick
Overview
Salvos Stores Fyshwick is part of the larger Salvation Army chain of thrift stores and has been a staple in Canberra for decades. Though it’s known primarily as a charity store, Salvos Fyshwick is a treasure trove for vintage lovers, offering a diverse collection of second-hand and vintage clothing. The store stocks everything from retro dresses and coats to quirky hats and belts. As it is constantly receiving donations, the inventory changes regularly, ensuring that vintage hunters can always find something new. Salvos Stores Fyshwick is also an excellent destination for shoppers on a budget, as it offers affordable prices while supporting a good cause.
Year Founded
1990s (Salvos), Fyshwick branch 2012
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, coats, accessories, shoes.
- Eras: 1960s to 1990s.
Street Address
19 Mildura Street, Fyshwick, Canberra, ACT, Australia
6. Material Pleasures
Overview
Material Pleasures is a second-hand and vintage clothing store that has been a favorite in Canberra since it was established in 1989. This shop specializes in pre-loved clothing, with a strong focus on sustainability and recycling. Material Pleasures offers a broad range of vintage clothing and accessories, from timeless 1950s dresses to funky 1970s suits. The store is also known for its vintage costume jewelry, offering shoppers a chance to add a unique touch to their outfits. With its focus on affordability and environmental consciousness, Material Pleasures is a great place to find stylish vintage pieces while supporting sustainable fashion.
Year Founded
1989
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, suits, accessories, costume jewelry.
- Eras: 1950s to 1990s.
Street Address
3/60 Dundas Court, Phillip, Canberra, ACT, Australia
7. Hustle&Scout Vintage Market
Overview
Hustle&Scout Vintage Market is not a permanent store, but rather a recurring vintage market that has become a major event in Canberra’s fashion scene since its inception in 2013. Held several times a year, this market brings together a range of vintage clothing vendors, offering shoppers a unique selection of retro items from multiple decades. From vintage dresses and coats to handmade accessories, Hustle&Scout is a mecca for vintage enthusiasts and those looking to add a little bit of nostalgia to their wardrobe. The market also features local artists and musicians, creating a vibrant and creative atmosphere.
Year Founded
2013
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, coats, handmade accessories, shoes.
- Eras: 1960s to 1990s.
Street Address
Event locations vary (typically held in Braddon and Civic, Canberra, ACT, Australia)
8. Dolly Up Vintage
Overview
Dolly Up Vintage is a charming boutique located in Canberra’s inner north, specializing in vintage clothing with a feminine and romantic flair. Opened in 2018, this store offers a curated collection of vintage dresses, blouses, skirts, and accessories that celebrate classic, timeless styles. Dolly Up Vintage is particularly known for its attention to detail and high-quality fabrics, ensuring that each piece is as elegant as it is durable. The boutique’s intimate setting and carefully selected inventory make it a haven for vintage lovers looking for beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Year Founded
2018
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, skirts, blouses, accessories.
- Eras: 1950s to 1970s.
Street Address
49 Mort Street, Braddon, Canberra, ACT, Australia
9. Reuse Recycle Vintage
Overview
Reuse Recycle Vintage is a vintage and thrift shop dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion. Founded in 2020, this store offers an extensive collection of pre-loved and vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories for men and women. Reuse Recycle focuses on affordable vintage fashion, with an emphasis on casual wear and retro styles. From graphic tees to denim jackets, the shop caters to those looking for laid-back vintage styles with a modern edge. The store also hosts regular events focused on upcycling and reusing old clothing, promoting the importance of sustainability in fashion.
Year Founded
2020
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Casual wear, denim, shoes, accessories.
- Eras: 1980s to 2000s.
Street Address
95 Wollongong Street, Fyshwick, Canberra, ACT, Australia
10. Honey Vintage
Overview
Honey Vintage is a boutique specializing in retro and vintage-inspired fashion. Since its establishment in 2015, the store has gained a reputation for offering stylish, carefully selected pieces that combine vintage charm with modern sensibilities. Honey Vintage is particularly known for its collection of vintage-inspired dresses, often drawing inspiration from the 50s and 60s. The store also stocks a variety of accessories and footwear, allowing customers to create complete looks that harken back to a more glamorous time. The boutique’s focus on quality ensures that every item is as fashionable as it is long-lasting.
Year Founded
2015
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Vintage-inspired dresses, footwear, accessories.
- Eras: 1950s to 1960s (inspired).
Street Address
24 Lonsdale Street, Braddon, Canberra, ACT, Australia