NYC has some of the best thrift and vintage stores to satisfy your sartorial desires. Thrifting is as much a pastime for New Yorkers as brunch. If you want to spruce up your wardrobe or are looking for some unique pieces, then this article is tailored for you. Thrifting is a way to find secondhand clothing that is trendy and stylish and won’t break the bank.
Often, thrift stores take donations and the proceeds of the store go to a charity or nonprofit. Also, thrift stores are great for finding retro pieces. Fashion from the 70s and 80s is having a moment, so when you go thrifting, be sure to nab some flared high-waisted jeans and wide-brimmed sunglasses #ootd.
1. L Train Vintage
L Train Vintage is an NYC thrift store treasure chest of hidden gems. They have multiple locations with the ones on Grand and Dekalb street closed on Sundays. They are insanely cheap and with 30.00 bucks, you can do some serious damage. However, most things will cost between $6.00-$15.00.
You can buy Hawaiian shirts, Levi Jeans, and kitschy throwback sweatshirts like Space Jam, and pay a fraction of what you would spend at Urban Outfitters. There is a lot of merchandise, mostly women’s but a decent amount for men too. You must do some digging, but you can cop some impressive finds. Don’t be surprised if you encounter real fur, like a bluish red-dyed coat made of rabbit for thirty bucks. Also, read the labels, you can find rare pieces of fashion history like a hand-beaded top made from British Hong Kong (major). If none of that floats your boat, you can still swipe a pair of baby phat jeans and an ugly but fab cat sweater and you’ll fit right in with the Brooklynite crowd.
2. Buffalo Exchange
Buffalo Exchange is a chain a thrift store with new and recycled items. They have stores throughout the country and several locations in NYC. You can now mail your donations, which is convenient. Buffalo Exchange is super cheap. Their Instagram gives great style inspo buy arranging outfit combos and accessories.
For Halloween, they compiled great costumes ensembles for the cast of the new Tarantino flick, Once Upon A Time in Hollywood (think white patented leather) or the new horror cult classic Midsommar with flower crowns galore. If you keep your eyes out, you can stumble upon some steals like a $40.00 Betsy Johnson bustier dress that would be The Marvelous Mrs. Maizel approved.
3. Beacon’s Closet
Beacon’s Closet has a great selection of vintage and modern clothes for men and women in multiple NYC locations. You can find newer brands like Banana Republic, AllSaints, and White House Black Market with affordable designer prices. But don’t worry if you prefer vintage, you are sure to find some swanky oxford pumps and 1960s shift dresses. They also buy, sell, and trade in-store and online. Consider trading in your old things for store credit and you can walk away with designer marked down goods like a Gucci handbag. Check their website for what season and trend they are buying for.
4. Cure Thrift Shop
At Cure Thrift Shop all proceeds benefit type 1 diabetes research and advocacy. It is classified as a used, vintage, thrift, and consignment store. You can purchase and sell antiques, books, jewelry, and furniture as well. This place is organized and easy to navigate. Downside, it runs higher priced than L Train Vintage or Buffalo Exchange but is still affordable.
5. 10 Ft Single by Stella Dallas
10 Ft Single by Stella Dallas has a sprawling selection of organized vintage clothes for men and women. They were opened by vintage dealers from Japan and have brought with them a subtle Japanese aesthetic. Expect to find some great one of a kind leather shoes, kimonos, Letterman jackets, and army greens. However, also expect things to be on the pricier side. They also have accessories and furniture. You can find some great California 1970s clothing vibes here for sure and some truly artistic window displays.
6. Screaming Mimis Vintage
Screaming Mimis Vintage is one of a kind vintage store with rare and unique finds. They specialize in fashion and costumes from the 1970s-1980s and their work of art window displays. You might sight one or two celebrities. Anticipate shelling out some dough. Dress range at about $150.00 and bloused $50.00. It is located in Union Square and you can purchase online.
7. AuH20
AuH20 is a thrift store with a neat selection of vintage jewelry. This NYC thrift store uses recycled clothing, shoes, and accessories. The title is a pun, using the element “Au” (gold) and H20 (water). Items are marked in racks by price at $25, $10, and $5 (yes, please).
8. The Attic
The Attic in Brooklyn is a budget-friendly and Eco-conscious thrift store. The space has a very modern and sparse set-up. This place is new and sure to be a hit with the Williamsburg crowd. You can assemble some trendy vintage ware and somehow look futuristic. Do you miss Matrix length coats and bucket hats? They’ve got you covered.
9. New York Vintage Inc.
New York Vintage Inc. is the vintage store you go to if you can afford to spread a pretty penny on vintage couture. You’ve got the likes of Rachel Zoe, Anna Wintour, and Saudi princesses shopping here. It’s worth walking into for the experience. Their staff is friendly. It’s nice to take a stroll through history. The garments are organized by the era in this NYC thrift and antiques store.
10. Monk Vintage
Monk Vintage in Williamsburg has a great selection of affordable and eclectic clothing. You’ll enjoy the hunt. This store is massive and in summer they have a wall of shorts. When you donate, you can get 25% off store purchases.
11. Mother of Junk
Need furniture or a turntable? Then, come to Mother of Junk. The 5,000 square feet of space is full of clothing, accessories, home goods, and antiques. Just ignore any creep dolls (yikes).
12. Pippin Vintage Jewelry
Pippin Vintage Jewelry sells antique jewelry and one of a kind pieces in Chelsea. Prices range from inexpensive to high. Who doesn’t fancy an Art Deco engagement ring from the 1930s?
13. Dusty Rose Vintage
Finally, Dusty Rose Vintage is extremely affordable NYC thrift store. The clothing is organized by bins. They have outfitted some trendy shows like Girls and High Maintenance. Some of the labels include “Rock Ts,” “Men’s Wool,” “Women’s/ Men’s Suits,” to name a few. Expect things from the bin to cost $12-$22. They even have a bin called “Gothic Witch Noir” (fabulous). If you thrift some Witchy clothes, be sure to check out our article for Witchy make-up looks.
