If you’re hoping to make the most of the January sales, Hull is the perfect destination for a day of retail therapy, especially if you’re seeking vintage and retro clothing, or unique, one-off pieces that can’t be found elsewhere This cultured, modern city can easily be reached and explored by bus, catching East Yorkshire Buses’ X46 or X47 service from York, Pocklington, Market Weighton or Beverley. Here are some of the best shops to check out the next time you visit.
Beasley’s Clothing
Hull’s oldest vintage shop can be found in its historic Old Town, a five minute walk from the nearest stop on the X46/X47 route. Beasley’s was founded back in 1978 and it resides in Hepworth’s Arcade – a characterful Victorian shopping centre. Behind its bold yellow exterior you’ll discover a carefully curated collection of retro clothes and accessories, including imported American classics. You can pick up pieces from brands such as Dickies, Ben Davis, Blundstone, Grafters and YKRA here, as well as surplus US army supplies. The shop also offers its own range of ‘Beasley’s Basics’, which features versatile wardrobe staples such as caps and beanies, canvas bags, desert boots and tartan-lined jackets. Don’t forget to visit their dedicated hat shop opposite, too.
Roisin Dubh
Also located in Hepworth’s Arcade, Roisin Dubh sells vintage-inspired fashion, accessories and homeware with a focus on styles from the 1940s and 1950s. The shop’s name means ‘little black rose’ and its fun and feminine designs include stylish jumpsuits, swing dresses and cosy coats to keep you warm in the January weather. You can expect plenty of pretty patterns and bold colourways, along with finishing touches in the form of petticoats, hats and handbags. Roisin Dubh stocks brands including Banned Retro, Voodoo Vixen, Hell Bunny, Lady V and Dolly & Dotty, which can be tried before buying in its fitting room. If you’re struggling to plan your outfit, or searching for something in particular, its staff can even help by sourcing pieces specially for your occasion.
Poorboy Vintage Clothing
If your budget won’t quite stretch to the premium brands you covet, Poorboy Vintage is the place to go. Situated in Hull’s old fruit market on Humber Street, a 12 minute walk from the nearest X46/X47 bus stop, this large boutique specialises in handpicked secondhand clothing with items from the 1970s to more recent years. These include garments from luxury labels like Hermes and Burberry. Men can shop for British and American sportswear along with film, TV and music merchandise, vintage Levi’s and remade Nike and Carhartt, while Poorboy’s women’s offering includes Moncler down jackets, vintage Barbour and designer dresses, bags and scarves. The shop has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with reasonable prices that make it easy to bag a bargain.
19Point4
The team behind 19Point4 believe that style is not a display of wealth but an expression of imagination, and their stock is always chosen with a sense of fun and playfulness. This cool fashion and lifestyle store can be found at the end of Humber Street, not far from Poorboy. Alongside its own exclusive fashion designs, it offers clothes by Neon Rose and Glamorous, quirky homeware from DOIY, jewellery from Vurchoo and Big Metal London and hand-painted ceramics by Querico. Many of the items sold here are upcycled, sustainable or fair trade and all are beautifully displayed, making browsing a real delight.
Skopes
If there’s an upcoming event that you need to look sharp for, Skopes can help. This family-owned menswear business was established in Leeds in 1948 and it still uses quality fabrics from Yorkshire mills today, including cavalry twills, corduroy, and worsteds. These are fashioned into smart formalwear that’s sure to impress at occasions like weddings, race days, interviews, graduations and more. Alternatively, you’ll discover everything you need to look sophisticated all year round here, from Merino blend knitwear and wool coats to leather gloves and snug scarves. Skopes’ Hull store is located on the quayside at Princes Dock Street, less than a five minute walk from the X46/X47 stop on Carr Lane.
Images- @poorboyvintageclothing, @beasleysclothinghull, @19point4