The 7 best vintage fashion stores to visit in Helsinki

Pre-loved fashion has always taken centre stage in Scandi wardrobes, but now its importance has become heightened as it contributes to that much-needed circularity in the industry that’s one of the most polluting in the world. And let’s face it - what could be better than stumbling upon a unique sartorial treasure from the decades gone past? Or giving a new life to a special piece that has stood the test of time?

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Scandinavia is known for spearheading sustainability in the fashion industry and beyond, and the Nordic capitals offer an array of stores and boutiques with a bountiful supply of vintage and second-hand gems. Head to the streets of Helsinki, and you’ll spot queues of cool kids lining up to UFFs to grab the hottest second-hand garments in town, or if you’re in the mood for rarer vintage finds, opt for smaller boutiques such as Ansa or Hoochie Mama Jane.

Whatever pre-loved pieces you might fancy, below, you’ll find Vogue Scandinavia’s edit on the best vintage and second-hand stores to visit on your next venture to the Finnish capital.

A hot spot for quality and high-end second-hand treasures, at Relove, you might be lucky and get your hands on a vintage Gucci bag or a pair of sleek pre-loved Alaïa sunglasses. With a consignment concept, Relove's selection is constantly updated, bearing in mind the latest trends. Taking second-hand shopping to a whole new (delicious) level, all three of Relove’s stores are accompanied by charming cafés, offering a healthy and tasty All Day Breakfast –menu. If you’re interested in Relove’s offerings but can’t make it to the physical stores, fret not – head over to their online boutique.

Relove Töölö: Sandelsinkatu 6, 00260 Helsinki, Finland
Relove Freda: Fredrikinkatu 25, 00120 Helsinki, Finland
Relove at Stockmann: Aleksanterinkatu 52, 00100 Helsinki, Finland

A charity whose stores have swiftly cemented their status as the destinations for excellent second-hand and vintage goods, UFF (U-landshjälp från Folk till Folk i Finland) shops are where Finland’s fashion-forward, environmentally-conscious style set flocks to (especially when the new collection drops). UFF has stores located all over southern Finland; however, a few central Helsinki shops boast curated vintage sections, such as UFF Freda and Bulevardi. Packed with trendy, retro garments and accessories for remarkable prices, chances are that you won’t leave the store empty-handed.

UFF Freda: Fredrikinkatu 36, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
UFF Bulevardi: Bulevardi 30, 00120 Helsinki, Finland

With their adorable pastel-hued interiors, Flea offers a modern and inviting space where anyone can sell their quality garments and accessories in addition to the company’s own carefully selected second-hand collection. With the idea of only selling pieces that one doesn’t use anymore but could still imagine buying, Flea’s offerings are highly coveted and always on-trend. Imagine getting a hold of the iconic Celine Luggage bag at an exceptional price or finding the perfect pair of vintage Chanel kitten heels…

Iso Roobertinkatu 11, 00120 Helsinki, Finland

Specialising in premium vintage and second-hand menswear with a focus on streetwear, you’ll find everything from retro Levi’s denim jackets to iconic band tees and chunky Balenciaga leather boots at Variety. With garments and accessories coming in limited quantity, you are guaranteed to give a new home to a one-of-a-kind piece. Unable to visit Variety’s store in central Helsinki? Head over to their online store.

Kalevankatu 33, 00100 Helsinki, Finland

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If you’re hunting for a rare vintage find for a special occasion, pop by Hoochie Mama Jane. Located in Helsinki’s trendy area of Kallio, Hoochie Mama Jane specialises in vintage dresses, boasting everything from 1940s simple silhouettes to 1960s mod style mini dresses and 1970s trippy prints. Hoochie Mama Jane is also worth checking out for its selection of unique accessories, consisting of statement pieces such as art deco pendants and precious stone-adorned rings.

Agricolankatu 11, 00530 Helsinki, Finland

A vintage store specialising solely in Finnish fashion, Mekkomania’s exclusive selection is curated from the 1930s to the 1980s. Including legendary Finnish brands such as Marimekko, Vuokko, FinnFlare and Kirjokangas, at Mekkomania you’ll find everything from bright and quirky prints to monochromatic Scandinavian minimalism.

Fleminginkatu 12 b, 00530 Helsinki, Finland

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A charming vintage boutique in the heart of Helsinki’s hippest area, Ansa’s pre-loved treasures have found their way to the store from across the world. The pieces date back from the early 20th century to the 1980s, and new garments and accessories are added to the selection every week. At Ansa, you can also find rare, authentic Japanese haoris and kimonos from the 1920s to the 1970s.

Agricolankatu 5, 00530 Helsinki, Finland

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