For George Winters, Birmingham’s Rag Market isn’t just a place to trade – it’s home. It’s where he grew up, learned the ropes from his dad, and found a community that feels like family. Today, as the owner of Wintage, his vintage clothing stall, George is carrying forward a legacy while shaping the future of this iconic market.

Let’s step into his world and spend a day at the Rag Market, where history, fashion, and Brummie spirit weave together.
 


Growing up in the market

George’s journey began early. His dad, a well-loved trader for nearly four decades, first brought him along as a child.

“I started helping out when I was about twelve,” George recalls with a grin. “Just little jobs at first – carrying bags, watching how things ran – but I loved being part of it. The buzz of the market, the characters you meet… it’s something special.”

Those early lessons stuck. When the pandemic prompted his dad to step back, George stepped forward. Now, Wintage is his pride and joy – a treasure trove of retro fashion finds that draw in everyone from seasoned collectors to casual browsers.
 


Morning at Wintage

George’s day starts early. By the time the shutters go up, he’s already catching up with neighbouring stallholders.

“The Rag Market is like my second home,” he says. “We’ve got a proper community here – you look out for each other, share stories, and have a laugh before the rush begins.”

His stall is a kaleidoscope of eras: denim jackets from the ’80s, patterned shirts from the ’70s, Y2K streetwear making a comeback. Customers dig through rails in search of the perfect piece – and George is always on hand with a smile and a story.
 


The heart of the market: the people

For George, the highlight isn’t the clothes, it’s the people.

“You never know who’s going to walk through,” he says. “Some are hunting for one-off gems, others just wander in curious. That’s the beauty of the Rag Market – there’s something in it for everybody.”

He recalls regulars who’ve become friends, students styling their first digs on a budget, and families who’ve been shopping here for generations. Each interaction adds another thread to the fabric of the market’s story.
 


Afternoon wander: stalls, stories, and surprises

When he takes a break, George loves exploring the other stalls – a mix of textiles, crafts, food, and bric-a-brac that makes the Rag Market a treasure chest of Birmingham culture.

“You can walk down one aisle and find fabric from halfway across the world, then turn the corner and there’s someone selling fresh samosas,” he laughs. “It’s colourful, noisy, full of life. That’s what I love about it.”

The traders know each other well. Many, like George, are second- or third-generation stallholders. The market isn’t just about selling – it’s about belonging.
 


Shaping the next chapter

As the day winds down and the shutters start to close, George reflects on what keeps him rooted here.

“The Rag Market has always been full of character and proper Brummie spirit. Generations have traded here, and I’m proud to be part of its next chapter. We’ve got history, but we’re also moving forward – vintage fashion is huge right now, and it’s amazing to share that with people in the place where I grew up.”
 


Plan your visit

Whether you’re after a unique outfit, fresh fabric for a project, or just the thrill of rummaging through the unexpected, the Rag Market offers it all. And with traders like George keeping the tradition alive, it’s more than just a shopping trip – it’s a slice of Birmingham’s heart.