Best Vintage and Independent Shops in Berlin
As a walking tour guide in Berlin, I’m always discovering little pearls down the backstreets. Berlin is full of amazing vintage stores as well as local brands and shops, from quirky boutiques to giant vintage warehouses, so make sure you’ve got some space in your suitcase.
These are, in my opinion, some of the best vintage and independent shops in Berlin. No matter your style or budget, you’ll be able to find something special. Feel free to get in touch to arrange a custom walking tour with me if you’re wanting to spend a day shopping in Berlin like a local.
Vintage stores
Let Them Eat Cake
This thoughtfully curated shop is packed with rare finds and eclectic picks from different eras. You can easily find a furry coat and some high boots to go with anything, all lovingly sourced around the world by the Swedish owners.
Picknweight
You might have come across these ‘pay by weight’ vintage stores in a few cities, but the Berlin Picknweight in Mitte is one of the best. They do a special ‘happy hour’ discount every Tuesday between 12pm and 3pm where you can get 20% off your items, and they also offer student discounts year-round.
Ironic Gallery
If you’re after something a bit grungier, fit for the famous Berlin nightclub scene, then look no further than Ironic Gallery in Neukölln. While you’re searching through the Y2K t-shirts and retro sunglasses, make sure to rummage through their collection of lesser-known art magazines, which feature some of the city’s best underground music, art and literary scenes.
O.F.T. (Ohne Frage Toll)
Opened in 2004, Marita Schwalm’s Ohne Frage Toll (“Undoubtedly great”) is a treasure trove for vintage lovers. If you’re lucky, you can find clothes in there dating back to the Weimar Republic from the 1920s. This isn’t the place for thrifty shoppers, as prices tend to be on the higher side, but if you’re after an heirloom piece to keep forever, then O.F.T. is unmissable. Be sure to book an appointment, as Marita (a true Berliner in every sense) is known for turning people away without one.
Koku
If shoes are your thing, then Koku is a must. They have a rather impressive wall of shelves absolutely covered in Dr Martens, plus a whole range of vintage heels, sneakers, boots, and everything in between – maybe even something for a Berlin walking tour! On top of the shoes, Koku also has a great selection of vintage Levi’s and 1980s fashion, as well as hats and other accessories.
Fräulein Anders
This little vintage boutique is for the romantics among us. Think classic silhouettes, beads and trims, prints galore, and maybe even a bit of fringe. Fräulein Anders (owned by Lilly Anders) takes you back in time to a world of charm that you won’t want to leave.
Das Neue Schwarz
Sometimes vintage shopping can feel a bit overwhelming, with rails and shelves and barrels of clothes everywhere, but Das Neue Schwarz (The New Black) provides respite from this stereotype with its hand-selected collection of designer pieces. Centrally located in the city, you can get a high fashion look without the high fashion prices.
Vintage Revivals
Located in both Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg, Vintage Revivals strikes a balance between grungy and modern in its stores. I’d recommend stopping by if you’re new to vintage, because there’s something for everyone, it’s easy to navigate, and the stores have a cool industrial aesthetic.
Independent shops
Loveco
As a woman-owned business that’s all about sustainability, Loveco is up there as one of my favourite stores in Berlin. They’re 100% independent and dedicated to creating awareness about the impact fashion has on the environment and society. They work with ethical, sustainable suppliers to curate their stores, so you can rest assured that whatever you’re buying is having a positive impact – whether it’s clothes, shoes, water bottles or soap.
Auerbach
Not your usual tourist stop; Auerbach specialises in gentlemen’s accessories, including ties, bowties, suspenders and pocket squares. Their stores transport you back to Berlin in the 1920s, with custom items sewn on site. You can also visit their central Mitte factory, which is steeped in Art Deco charm, and witness their craft in action.
Supermarche
Similar to Loveco but with just the one 100m2 store, Supermarche is a destination for fair trade and sustainable clothes and home accessories. They stock over 50 brands and prioritise companies with a social purpose. You can also drop off old clothes for recycling at their store – check out their website to learn more about their recycling initiatives.
She Said
Part bookshop and part coffee house, She Said is an independent shop that celebrates female and queer authors. It goes without saying that this shop is a community hub that’s LBGTQ+ friendly and run by a wonderful team. They also host talks throughout the year, so be sure to check their website in advance if you’re keen to join one.
About bookstore
Blink and you’ll miss it – this gorgeous concept bookshop offers both English and German books that relate to a rotating range of topics. They also offer coffee and cakes, have lovely interiors and are female-owned, need I say more?
Soul Objects
This quirky, captivating boutique is the place to go for gifts – either for yourself or someone special. The shop defines itself as selling objects that are a work of art, things that are unique, original, artisan and handmade. Look out for their range of fragrances, items by local artists, spirits and wines, antique furniture, and handcrafted jewellery.
If you want to find more shopping destinations in Berlin or learn about some local secrets, then why not join me for my Off-the-beaten-path Tour during your visit. Happy shopping!
