Good vibes only at the Classic Carboot Sale, April 2026
The place to be to celebrate all things vintage - and what I love most about this specific event is that it’s so inclusive. You can be into any era you like and you won’t feel like you don’t belong. Plus, it’s in city centre, participation costs £7 and you can spend that day however you like - boogie to the 70s music, people watch, buy something cool from some of the best traders (my favourite stores at the end of this article), have a beer in the sun, meet long-time-no-see friends… Do I need to go on?
What I wore
My outfit for this day was super simple - a three piece suit, a hat and pair of boots. Not just a random suit though, and I will go into details of it a while, but perhaps a piece like this could be a formula for when you want to look a little extra, but don’t have the time (or resources, or headspace) to pull something off? I am fully aware this isn’t a NASA-worth discovery, but I do have the tendency to overthink my attire for special occasions, and only yesterday (yes, I am not as styling-savvy as some might think), I realised what a great relief it is to own a cool, flattering piece that can save you x amount of time and do the job you want it to do. As a shameless outfit repeater but at the same time a person who likes to raise the bar higher and higher (competing with myself is my full time job), I genuinely can’t wait to wear it again, try a different pair of boots, maybe add a shirt, or a tank top and go more casual? You’ll surely be the first one to know when that happens.
Pictures @galihrichardson
The suit itself is a tailor-made piece from the 70s, designed in Palm Beach, Florida. I am guilty of previously announcing it will be available for sale, but I’m sorry, I can’t let it go. I feel awful changing my mind, but I just can’t stress the fact that it feels like it was made for someone like me 50 years ago in Florida - it fits me like a glove (though I might have the leg slightly altered, I know y’all out there love to point out how my vintage pieces are high waters). I found it via one of my US pickers, it is deadstock, had a swatch of fabric in the pocket for any repairs, has great pockets (I’m not a purse person, but just like everybody, I need to stash my keys, concealer, and maybe a little spliff somewhere); it has all the qualities I love and look for in vintage pieces, so for all those reasons, it is a keeper. But I had to make this confession to justify my decision - does this qualify for a therapy?
Next to some of the coolest cats, picture @illcutz
Where I like to shop at the CCBS
The stores below are ones I've either bought from or have my eye on - their stock and curation is top notch, and on top of that they're lovely people. In random order and by no means a complete list - I don't want to exclude anyone trading there that I just haven't had the chance to get to know yet, not that I wouldn't recommend them.
Sonnylou Vintage - these are the real cats behind western wear and the OG Americana. Their stock is true vintage gems from the 40s and the 50s, and they’re a super sweet family.
Old Things Make Friends - Dorothy and Larry are really sharp with their stock, true vintage gems that aren’t so easily available this side of the pond. Lots of Americana, antiques and a good sizing selection. I’m so glad they recently joined Portobello Market, now we’re neighbors!
Rust and Teal Vintage - this was the first time I’ve had a chance to meet Kenny & Cobe in real life. Another great place to find your next best Americana piece.
Rebels Choice Vintage - we only met yesterday but I’m in love with their fringe jackets selection and the Wild West vibes they bring to this event. I’ve forgotten the lovely owner name, but I remember she said she’s Russian and I feel so seen!
Blackhorse Lane - London made denim that Japan can be jealous of.
with Rebels Choice Vintage
This has been my… th CCBS - I can’t even count. I started attending it in 2021 or 2022, and it runs twice a year, so it only adds to the math I can’t do. Fact is, it’s been always a vibe - seeing fellow traders, old and new friends, getting some inspiration, discovering places where I’d like to shop and having my looks documented by all those photographers, who I can’t thank in person, so I’m sending a big thank you out there yonder. Thanks for reading and catch y’all next time!