The Best Vintage Jeans in Tokyo

Recently, I went to one of my favorite districts in the world, Harajuku, to go vintage shopping. This has become one of my favorite things to do in life. And when you live in Tokyo, the fashion beckons you like the smell of croissants in Paris. You can find anything from vintage Chanel, retro tees, and one of my favorites to shop for – denim. Some of my favorite jeans have come from this tiny fashion HQ where even Lady Gaga comes to shop for tour costumes and to find inspiration.

When you’re not distracted by the more ‘eccentric’ side of Tokyo fashion, you can discover some incredible pieces to take home. Last week I was wandering the streets of Harajuku and found my way into a store called Flamingo. Flamingo is one of the premier vintage shops in Harajuku. They also have a couple of sister locations around Tokyo and Kichijoji. After I walked in, my eyes fixated upon a pair of jeans across the store. The wash was incredible, right out of the 80s, but not super worn and not too outdated.

It was a perfect blue. Even better, they were my size and the fit was amazing. I’ve had a lot of jeans in my life, but these are that pair. The brand is German, J. F. Gee. The store carried quite a selection, but if you don’t find what you want, then head over to Chicago close by and you’ll find quite a selection of Levi’s.

Flamingo Harajuku 

Contact & Directions

ADDRESS: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 4-26-28 Jingu-mae Junkyard 1F

URL: http://www.tippirag.com/shopsyo_fla_hara

NEAREST TRAIN: About a 5-minute walk from Omotesando Station or 2 minutes from Harajuku Omotesando

HOURS: Open weekdays 11:00 – 21:00; 12:00 – 21:00 / Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays on weekdays

Around this area in Harajuku, you can find some amazing vintage stores nearby as well. It’s best to devote an afternoon to wandering around the streets to hunt for key items.