Florence: 10 Shops (+1) for Alternative Shopping

1 – FLO Concept Store

The keyword at this shop is MADE IN ITALY. In this boutique you’ll find women’s and children’s clothing, plus accessories, hats and bags from all over the world, many of them handmade. There’s also a children’s area inside, so shopping is easy for families too. The shop is on Lungarno Corsini, in the thick of the Florentine atmosphere.

2 – Boutique Nadine

Boutique Nadine offers vintage and modern clothing — a blend of the great labels that shaped Florentine fashion history and creations by the most talented new designers. The boutique also carries accessories, so nothing is missing to win you over. The shop, simple but welcoming in feel, is at Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli, 22/red.

3 – Street Doing – Vintage Couture

Jewelry and clothing abound in the beautiful, romantic Florentine bottega Street Doing – Vintage Couture, at Via dei Servi 88, in a magnificent historic palazzo. Here you’ll find a selection of vintage accessories and garments that “made” fashion history. The pieces come from all over the world, but above all from the Florentine tradition: the retro atmosphere of this place charms adults and children alike.

4 – UB

Let’s switch registers for a moment and step into a world of memories: at UB it’s as if the old objects of yesteryear had come back to life — whether old books, postcards or bottles, everything is arranged with order and harmony, each in its own dedicated section. Of course there’s no shortage of vintage clothing, but also suitcases, paintings and figurines. So if you want to take a leap into the past, drop by at Via dei Conti 4.

5 – Aqua Flor

This time we’re talking about a boutique too — but of perfumes! One little room after another, filled with vials, jars, soaps and scents of every kind. You can create your own scented sachet and test the most varied fragrances through unusual little tubes. Find it at Via Borgo Santa Croce 6, for an experience to be savored by the nose!

6 – Rock and Biker Shop Emporio Rock

At Via dei Macci 91r, this clothing shop is perfect for anyone who loves gothic and glam-rock style. Themed print T-shirts, leather jackets, lace chokers: you can find truly everything, from pure biker apparel to gothic-lolita bustiers — absolutely not to be missed.

7 – Société Anonyme

The shop has two locations, one at Via Giovan Battista Niccolini 3/f and one at Via Maggio 60/r. The website is minimal — style rules here, crying out an independence that draws on the Northern European feel of the more underground districts of Europe’s capitals. Inside you’ll find both better-known brands and more niche garments, united by a minimal-bohemian style. The shop also carries its own men’s and women’s capsule line, named Société Anonyme after the store itself, available in store or online.

8 – Gerard Loft

The mix of styles at Gerard Loft is this clothing shop’s strong suit. In the heart of Florence’s historic center, streetwear is the star. A denim specialist (from classic to Japanese denim) with a knack for skillfully blending genres, the shop also boasts limited runs — exclusive to their store — of big brands like Levi’s. Find it at Via dei Pecori 36, and if you love streetwear you really can’t miss it.

9 – A Piedi Nudi nel Parco

This clothing shop’s style stands out for its very essential, avant-garde concept, echoed in the store’s decor too. A wide selection for both men and women: rings, earrings, wallets, bags and shoes. You can also shop online on the site, but if you can, the advice is to go and see it with your own eyes, at Via del Proconsolo 1/n.

10 – Lady Jane B

Last but by no means least, the shop is at Via dei Pilastri 32 and, for vintage lovers, it’s a real treat. The clothes come from all over Europe, though British style prevails above all — a passion of the shop’s owner and founder. Affordable prices, for unique, quality pieces.

11 – D.A.T.E.

After the success of its single-brand stores in Milan and Seoul, D.A.T.E. comes home with an incredible store at Via del Parione 53/55 r — right here in Florence, where in 2006 four friends brought their dream to life and continue to draw inspiration from the city. A true “Casa D.A.T.E.,” like a new outpost of the headquarters, where you breathe the brand’s real DNA. The store was designed by Florentine designer Valentina Magnolfi, of Studio Santa Maria Magnolfi. The setting — bright and elegant — features a coffered wooden ceiling that flourishes in full respect of the Florentine decorative tradition, entirely hand-painted by Picta Lab, an all-women team of decorators. Beyond being a new landmark for D.A.T.E. devotees, the flagship is a space designed to celebrate creativity and craftsmanship.

Article by Samantha Gori