From Runway to Resale: Unearthing Style in Milan's Vintage Shops

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Elise Wong
Curated By

Elise Wong

  • Milan

  • Italy

  • City Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • Solo Travel

  • Boutique Travel

  • Fashion

From Runway to Resale: Unearthing Style in Milan's Vintage Shops
Curator’s statement

Milan is a city that blends the old and the new—and its vintage and resale shops are no exception. On my recent trip, I set out to explore some of the city’s best-kept fashion secrets—and I wasn’t disappointed. From iconic designer finds to unique, one-of-a-kind pieces, Milan’s vintage scene is an absolute treasure. For me, it’s not just about shopping—it’s about uncovering a pre-loved gem and giving it new life, a process that feels more personal and meaningful than any fast-fashion purchase.

The Fora Difference

Book with Elise to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Unlock perks by contacting Elise to book your trip.

After visiting almost a dozen upscale resale shops during my time in Milan, here’s a curated list of the top three upscale resale shops that I visited on my most recent trip:

Vintage Delirium

Tucked away in a beautiful courtyard, Vintage Delirium is a true feast for the eyes, specializing in haute couture and collectible vintage pieces from the 1920s to the 1980s, some of which have made cameos in movies or television shows. The shop is a fashion museum of sorts, with exquisite garments from iconic designers and a focus on impeccable quality. While I didn’t make any purchases here, I was captivated by the craftsmanship and timeless elegance of the items on display. It’s a place where you could easily lose track of time, marveling at the one-of-a-kind pieces that have stood the test of decades.

Cavalli e Nastri

A Milan institution, Cavalli e Nastri is known for its impeccable selection of authentic vintage clothing, accessories, and shoes. It’s particularly celebrated for its high-end designer finds and beautifully preserved archival pieces that tell a story of Italian fashion history. It was here that I found two Italian designer handbags that I couldn’t resist. Each bag had its own story, and the quality was unmatched.

Bivio Milano

My last stop was Bivio Milano (the ViaMora 4 location), and it quickly became one of my favorite discoveries in the city. This stylish boutique’s friendly staff blends luxury pre-loved pieces with streetwear, creating a collection that feels both fresh and timeless. I scored two pairs of designer sunglasses that added the perfect touch of Milanese cool to my wardrobe. I couldn’t resist also picking up a versatile designer dress and a logo sweater that both felt like the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern elegance. While this store specializes in women’s clothing and accessories only, there is a Bivio Milano location on the same street for men.

Need to know

  • Hire a guide to help maximize your shopping time. It’s also a great way to get a second opinion on potential purchases if you’re traveling solo.

  • Wear simple clothing that’s easy to take on and off, as many shops have small dressing rooms.

  • Ask for a discount when purchasing more than one item.

  • Keep an open mind. Even if you know what you’re looking for, you never know what treasures you might discover.

  • Ready to unearth your own Milanese treasures? Contact me to start planning your trip!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Milan page.

Advisor - Elise Wong

Travel Advisor

Elise Wong

Get in touch with Elise

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can expect a response from Elise within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).