Norwich Vintage Fair: Top Picks

Vintage fairs can be daunting to the uninitiated, and it’s easy to give up hope of finding a retro gem among the racks of tat.

Yes, some garments probably should’ve been confined to the bin a few decades ago, and others may seem more appropriate as pantomime costume, but persevere.

With a bit of rummaging (set aside an hour or two) you can discover enough on trend pieces to rival the high street chains, with the added satisfaction of unearthing a treasure.

The Tab perused the many stalls of the Norwich Vintage Fair in St. Andrew’s Hall on Sunday, picking out the top pieces to trawl for. They’re more authentic, unique, and often cheaper than anything you’ll find in Chapelfield Mall.

A winter coat will probably be your most expensive purchase of the season. Head to the vintage stores where they’re stocking on-trend fur, tweed, denim, and everything in between in abundance, and for pleasing prices.

It’s been hard to ignore the military jacket’s takeover as campus coat of choice this autumn, and the vintage stores are stocked with authentic versions that the chains can’t compete with.

Accessories are the gentle way to acquaint yourself with vintage. One-of-a-kind costume jewellery, silk scarves and real leather bags come in large supply at knock-down prices.

For the more daring, vintage hats and shoes can individualise an outfit with little effort.

The fit on true vintage garments can be dubious, but loose works well for delicate blouses, ditsy tea dresses, and chunky jumpers.

Now you know what to look for, check out Helena Raywood’s tips on where to shop for vintage in Norwich.