Pop Boutique Leeds

Semi-independent, semi-chain vintage shop Pop Boutique can be found off Central Road, crammed to the gills with cute and quirky clothes, shoes and the odd bit of kitsch. It even has its own retro fashion range, subverting the very concept of ‘vintage’ itself. Snazzy.

The Pop Boutique chain was founded in Manchester in 1983. Owner-operator Richard Free would hunt for vintage pieces at church sales, car boot sales and the like during the week, then head to London’s Camden and Greenwich markets. This led to the establishment of the first Pop Boutique in Manchester’s Affleck’s Palace arcade space. Locations in Liverpool and London followed, and the Leeds branch has been a favourite in the city since 2008.

So what are you going to find in Pop Boutique? It’s hard to say, as the stock is constantly changing and the shops specialise in unique pieces. However, as Pop Boutique source their stock from classic open-air markets and charity shops, as well as importing from around the world and making their own stuff, you’re almost certain to find that perfect vintage dress or a stylish jacket that will set you apart from the crowd.

The range of stock covered goes right back to the 50s and sometimes earlier, with everything for mods, rockers, hippies, punks, goths, indie kids, and really everyone else. Popular with students, Instagram influencers, television and film costume designers and actors, Pop Boutique earns its keep by not charging unreasonable prices. To get an idea of the current range of in-house pieces, you can check their social feeds or call up. However, the best way to experience Pop Boutique will always be to drop in for a browse in person.

Nearby you’ll find the Kirkgate Market and the Corn Exchange, for further shopping extravaganzas, plus local outposts of Blue Rinse and Ryan’s Vintage.