Tirana, the vibrant capital city of Albania, is nestled in the heart of the country, surrounded by mountains and located just an hour’s drive from the Adriatic Sea. With a population of approximately 500,000 people, Tirana is a dynamic blend of rich history, culture, and modern urban life. The city was founded in the early 17th century by Sulejman Pasha, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became the nation’s capital. Famous for its colorful Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet-era architecture, Tirana has grown to become Albania’s cultural and economic hub. In recent years, the city has embraced its creative side, with a thriving arts scene, an array of cafes, restaurants, and a growing interest in sustainable fashion.
One of the trends gaining popularity is the love for vintage clothing. With an increasing focus on sustainable fashion and unique styles, several vintage stores have emerged in Tirana, offering a diverse selection of clothing from different eras. These stores cater to the fashion-conscious who are in search of timeless, one-of-a-kind pieces.
1. Vendi i Vjetër Vintage Store
Overview
Vendi i Vjetër, which translates to “The Old Place,” is one of Tirana’s most beloved vintage stores. Founded in 2015, the shop has become a go-to spot for fashion enthusiasts who appreciate classic, retro styles. The store offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where customers can take a journey through time, exploring fashion trends from decades past. Vendi i Vjetër prides itself on curating a carefully selected collection of vintage apparel that speaks to the unique and diverse tastes of Tirana’s residents and visitors alike.
Year Founded
2015
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, coats, jackets, accessories, and footwear.
- Eras: 1960s to 1990s.
Street Address
Rruga Myslym Shyri, Tirana, Albania
2. Retro Tirana
Overview
Retro Tirana is a gem for lovers of fashion history, offering a wide range of pre-loved items that span several decades. Since its founding in 2018, this store has built a reputation for showcasing high-quality, rare vintage pieces that you won’t find anywhere else in the city. Retro Tirana stands out not only for its clothing but also for its collection of vintage furniture and décor, making it a haven for those who appreciate mid-century aesthetics in both fashion and home design.
Year Founded
2018
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Women’s and men’s clothing, home décor, accessories.
- Eras: 1950s to 1980s.
Street Address
Rruga Sami Frashëri, Tirana, Albania
3. Vintage Lollipop
Overview
Vintage Lollipop is known for its playful and quirky approach to vintage fashion. This store has been a part of Tirana’s vintage scene since 2016 and caters to fashion-forward individuals looking to make bold statements with their outfits. The shop features a diverse range of retro pieces, from bright and colorful 70s-inspired blouses to elegant 90s slip dresses. Vintage Lollipop is also known for hosting pop-up events and fashion workshops, making it a key player in Tirana’s fashion community.
Year Founded
2016
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Dresses, tops, skirts, accessories.
- Eras: 1970s to 1990s.
Street Address
Rruga Ismail Qemali, Tirana, Albania
4. Second Chance Vintage Store
Overview
Second Chance Vintage Store offers a second life to high-quality, pre-loved clothing from past decades. Founded in 2017, this store focuses on sustainability, with an emphasis on repurposing and reusing fashion items. It offers a wide range of clothing options for both men and women, with a particular focus on minimalist and timeless pieces that can easily be integrated into any modern wardrobe. Second Chance also supports local fashion initiatives, collaborating with Albanian designers who incorporate vintage elements into their collections.
Year Founded
2017
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, accessories.
- Eras: 1980s to 2000s.
Street Address
Rruga Barrikadave, Tirana, Albania
5. Revive Vintage Boutique
Overview
Revive Vintage Boutique has been at the forefront of Tirana’s vintage fashion scene since 2014. The store specializes in unique, high-quality vintage pieces from around Europe, carefully sourced to meet the tastes of Tirana’s fashion-conscious shoppers. Revive Vintage Boutique is particularly known for its impressive collection of coats and outerwear, making it a popular destination during Tirana’s colder months. The store’s mission is to offer customers a sustainable fashion option without compromising on style or quality.
Year Founded
2014
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Coats, jackets, dresses, accessories.
- Eras: 1960s to 1990s.
Street Address
Rruga Durrësit, Tirana, Albania
6. Tirana Thrift & Vintage
Overview
Tirana Thrift & Vintage is a cozy, budget-friendly store that offers a mix of second-hand and vintage clothing. Founded in 2020, the store has quickly gained popularity among students and young professionals looking for affordable, stylish, and sustainable fashion. Tirana Thrift & Vintage sets itself apart by offering a wide range of sizes and styles, making it one of the more inclusive vintage shops in the city. The friendly staff are always on hand to help customers find the perfect piece, ensuring that everyone leaves with something they love.
Year Founded
2020
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Casual wear, footwear, accessories.
- Eras: 1990s to 2000s.
Street Address
Rruga e Kavajës, Tirana, Albania
7. Moda e Vjetër
Overview
Moda e Vjetër, translating to “Old Fashion,” has been serving Tirana’s vintage enthusiasts since 2013. The store is known for its chic and carefully curated collection of vintage clothing, focusing on high-end and designer pieces. Moda e Vjetër is particularly popular among those looking for elegant, timeless fashion, such as evening gowns, tailored suits, and high-quality handbags. Its collection of accessories, especially its selection of vintage jewelry, is unmatched in the city, making it a favorite for those looking to add a touch of vintage glam to their wardrobe.
Year Founded
2013
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Evening wear, formal suits, jewelry, handbags.
- Eras: 1950s to 1990s.
Street Address
Rruga George W. Bush, Tirana, Albania
8. Sharm Vintage
Overview
Sharm Vintage is a boutique-style vintage store that offers an upscale shopping experience for those with a passion for elegant, timeless fashion. Since opening in 2019, Sharm has focused on providing luxury vintage items sourced from all over Europe. With a keen eye for designer pieces and rare finds, Sharm Vintage caters to fashionistas looking for standout items that make a statement. The store’s minimalist, modern interior creates a contrast to the rich history behind the clothing on display, making it a unique place to shop.
Year Founded
2019
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Designer clothing, bags, accessories.
- Eras: 1960s to 1980s.
Street Address
Rruga Donika Kastrioti, Tirana, Albania
9. Rewind Vintage
Overview
Rewind Vintage, founded in 2021, is one of the newest additions to Tirana’s vintage scene. Despite its recent launch, the store has quickly become a favorite for those seeking statement pieces with a retro flair. Rewind Vintage specializes in bold prints, vibrant colors, and quirky accessories from the 70s and 80s, attracting a younger crowd eager to explore these fashion eras. The store often hosts events such as styling workshops and fashion shows, which help to engage Tirana’s growing vintage community.
Year Founded
2021
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Bold prints, statement dresses, accessories.
- Eras: 1970s to 1980s.
Street Address
Rruga Elbasanit, Tirana, Albania
10. Urban Relic
Overview
Urban Relic is a vintage store with a distinctly urban edge, offering fashion from the grunge, punk, and streetwear movements of the late 80s and 90s. Opened in 2017, this store appeals to those who want to express their individuality through fashion. Urban Relic features an impressive collection of vintage band tees, leather jackets, and denim, catering to Tirana’s alternative and underground fashion scene. Its unique focus makes it one of the edgiest vintage shops in the city.
Year Founded
2017
Major Product Categories and Eras
- Product Categories: Band tees, leather jackets, denim, boots.
- Eras: 1980s to 1990s.
Street Address
Rruga Mihal Duri, Tirana, Albania