If and when we are out of this quarantine then support local businesses like thrift stores! Thrifting has become a new favorite hobby of mine. I realized I’m spoiled in NYC, because there are so many awesome spots that I haven’t taken advantage of. New York is a fashion, and shopping mecca, and it has a plethora of amazing vintage shops and thrift stores alike. So if you’re looking for a good deal, vintage designer or just super cool unique pieces then thrifting is the way to go. I put together a list of the best thrift stores in NYC, for you to read and save now to visit later! So let’s dive in!
“Thrifting refers to the act of shopping at a thrift store, flea market, garage sale, or a shop of a charitable organization, usually with the intent of finding interesting items at a low price.”
Thrift Stores
Buffalo Exchange– “Hip chain that buys, sells, trades trendy vintage & used clothing & accessories for men & women”. They have a lot of trendy pieces! I found a Cynthia Rowley bucket hat that I can’t wait to wear over the summer. This place is one of my go-to’s. I can pretty much always find something I like here. One time I found a vintage Valentino star print dress that I’m still obsessed with.
Beacon’s Closet– “Vintage clothing, shoes & accessories, including selections from top designers, in hip corner digs.” This place has a bigger selection of vintage, pre-loved pieces. I found labels like Zara, Reformation, Topshop, etc. and they have fun trendy pieces too. You can find sequin items, fun prints, and tie dye apparel. Overall it’s pretty organized and has a super affordable price point.
The Quality Mending Co.- Mostly denim, and shirts, but great vintage menswear selection. Definitely go here if you’re a dude or like to wear masculine/guy stuff. They have beanie hats, and fun vintage t-shirts. As said before a lot of denim. You can find men’s and women’s Levi’s for days.
The 1926 Shop– Vintage items from the 1920s. Super unique curated vintage shop. I found Ralph Lauren items dating back to the 1920s.
East Village Thrift Shop- Low tier, basics, and fast fashion. Def come here to get your basics. You can find everything from polo shirts, to basic sweatshirts and sweatpants. Even cashmere sweaters! Also, very cheap and affordable!
Arbor Vitae Vintage Clothing– “Modest, independently owned vintage-clothing boutique popular for its discount racks.” Here you can find more affordable fashion, and they have a wide array of designers. The shop is small in size but the type of place you can find a diamond in the rough.
Amarcord Vintage Fashion– “Specializing in vintage European designer apparel & accessories in mod surrounds.” Sourced from around the world, this special spot is mostly vintage designer pieces that are in good shape and quality. The store is quite small but color coded nicely and makes it feel more high end.
Narnia Vintage– Offbeat, bohemian store featuring an eclectic selection of vintage clothes & accessories. The type of place that has crystals for sale and incense burning.
Ritual Vintage Clothing- Cozy vintage shop carrying historical & designer women’s clothing, along with shoes & accessories. Located in Manhattan, the place has fun unique pieces on the higher end. Curated and hand-picked. Good quality stuff too!
I hope you enjoyed my thrift store round-up! I tried to only include places that I’ve been to. With more exploring I’ll be sure to update the list. If you have any must see thrift shops around the world, please leave a comment and let me know! I’d love to put it on my bucket list, but for now I hope you’ll get a chance to visit the best thrift stores in NYC yourself!
For more shopping experiences read my post, “First Luxury Shopping Experience at Chanel”.
Photos by Leslie Moncada
Mols says
L Train Vintage is the bomb!
Marilyn Hucek says
Thanks for reading, and leaving a note! I’ll definitely have to check it out! xoxo