A Guide to the Best Secondhand, Vintage, and Small Designer Sho…

It seems like everyone is dreaming of an Italian summer this year and who could blame them? The food, sea, and all the history and culture aside, Italy is an ideal spot to spend the summer. To put the cherry on top, shopping, more specifically from secondhand, vintage and small designer shops, is top-tier.

I have been living la dolce vita here in Florence, Italy for over a year now and have gotten the chance to check out every vintage, secondhand, and small designer shop in the city, both new and old. Although there are countless stores around the city, not all are created equal. It would be next to impossible for someone visiting to go to every spot, and I have found that certain shops are better for specific pieces.There is a shop for every price range, so it really depends on what you are looking for.

To make it a little easier for anyone traveling to Florence this summer, I created a guide for all of the best secondhand, vintage, and small designer shops that absolutely cannot be missed. Keep reading to add them to your list and happy shopping!

Image courtesy of

Nestled on Lungarno right by the Ponte Vecchio sits Boutique Nadine, one of my personal favorites. Here you will find the most special and unique pieces from small designers in the area as well as an impeccable collection of vintage finds towards the back of the shop. Above all, I love to come here for the unique jewelry and cozy atmosphere. 

Recollection is a lesser-known hidden gem that is situated in Oltrarno, also known as the other side of the river. This vintage store is the most beautiful in the city; there is even an open air room in the center that looks like something out of a dream. This shop has one of the largest collections of vintage designer that you will find in Florence and you are sure to walk out with something special. Even if you just want to window shop, check it out! You will not regret it.

Image courtesy of Melrose Vintage

If you are looking for the perfect pair of vintage Levi’s, a fun fur coat, or vintage pieces at lower (and bargainable) prices, check out Melrose. Although it is probably the most popular vintage shop in Florence, new pieces are always coming in and they change depending on the season. I found the most incredible Burberry trench here for a great price. Recently, I have noticed that they have a huge selection of the cutest white blouses that you could live in all summer. They also opened a new location near the train station if you are in a pinch for time but still want to shop a bit.

Image courtesy of Humana Vintage

A recent opening here in Florence is the beloved Humana, a chain that exists all over Europe and reminds me of an upgraded Goodwill. Humana is a consignment shop so the prices are always amazing here. You may have to dig, but it will be 100 percent worth it.

Image courtesy of Bio Fashion Lab

Since I have been living here for a while now, I am able to get the inside scoop about all of the coolest new openings happening in the city. I wanted to share one for anyone coming to Florence soon and the space is called Bio Fashion Lab. It will be a place where you can swap, rent, or buy clothes. There will be a selection of secondhand and vintage pieces as well as collections from small emerging designers. On top of this, you will be able to attend fun events year round and take courses both in-person and online. The store is expected to open in mid-September and I absolutely cannot wait! Check their Instagram @biofashionlab for updates.

Katie is an American living la dolce vita in Florence, Italy. In her free time, you can find her exploring museums, at aperitivo, or checking out all of the latest openings and events in the city.