Alice Davises - Hunting Retro Items In Portobello Road

Portobello Road is a place in London that has a retro-chic vibe that practically spills onto the streets. In the middle of Notting Hill, this famous street is more than an attractive backdrop for Hugh Grant movies -- it's a heaven for those who is a fan of antique treasures and gifts that can't be normal.

Saturdays are the time when the streets are alive. The air is buzzing with chatter, the scent of freshly baked pastries floats through tiny bakeries, and the market seems to stretch out like an endless treasure trail. I always start in the antique section, where rows of stalls sparkle with silverware, antique clocks, and vintage jewellery. They're not just things but pieces of history you can hold in your hand.

Retro stalls are a treasure trove for quirky gift seekers. There's a chance to find an Art Deco Tea Set next to a stack of 1970s vinyl records, or a battered suitcase waiting for its next adventure. I've spotted vintage typewriters here that still work wonderfully, unusual xmas presents for him and tin toys that bring a sparkle to any eye.

The thing I love the most about Portobello Road is the personality of each purchase. Many traders are collectors who like to share the stories behind their pieces. This kind of story makes the unusual gift ideas more personal.

It's not all antiques. There are also independent shops that sell recycled vintage items - old fabrics transformed into cushions as well as reclaimed wooden jewellery boxes, retro wall prints which have been remastered. It's where nostalgia meets creativity and you can pick up the perfect gift.

Make sure you take your time when going to Portobello to shop for gifts. Keep your eyes open, walk slowly, and stop for a drink at one of the cafes. The best finds usually appear when you're not in a hurry. And when you leave you'll be carrying something which isn't possible to buy at a department store -Something with a soul or a story and a little bit of London magic.