If there's one thing that I adore about London is the city's endless treasure trove of retro and vintage finds. It doesn't matter if you're looking for an original birthday gift or a retro Christmas present, or something that's more personal than a typical gift set, London is a dream for anyone who enjoys the charm of the past.

Vintage markets are one of my favourite weekends rituals. Portobello Road is always at the top of my list not just because of its vibrant chaos, but also because of the sheer variety. You can find everything from mid-century homewares and enamel kitchen tins to vinyl records that are still alive with life. I'm not sure how many times I've walked away with "just one small item" that turned into a complete bag of treasures.

For something more well-curated, I frequently head to Shoreditch and Islington. There are vintage shops that are boutique in these areas that specialize in specific times. For example there's a shop that specializes in 1940s fashion and another one that focuses on lighting from the 1970s. It's the kind of browsing experience where you're talking to the shop's owner for an hour or so about the history of a lamp, or the history of a leather satchel.

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Mixing the old and the new is a part of the fun. I often pair a vintage home accent with modern packaging or fresh flowers to give it a fresh appearance. It's an excellent way to give something old a new look, while still honoring its origins.

London also hosts fantastic seasonal fairs, especially during Christmas time. The Southbank Winter Market, as in addition to a variety of vintage markets that pop up, blend the joy of Christmas with stalls offering unique and one-off gifts. I'm not one to leave empty handed, and I often leave with a present for myself.

In a world where so much is disposable the act of giving a vintage or retro gift feels personal and considered. It's a tribute to craftsmanship and stories that are worth keeping and the joy of discovering beautiful objects that have endured the test of time. For me, London is the perfect background for that hunt- a city that embraces its past, but is vibrant and alive.

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