How to win at thrifting
Do you love the thrill of the thrift store hunt? Are you on a mission to find that one-of-a-kind piece that'll make all your friends jealous? Well, you're in luck – Australia is home to some of the best thrift and second-hand stores around.
From retro boutiques to charity shops and vintage furniture stores, there's something for everyone. So grab your reusable shopping bags, and let's dive into the world of thrifting!
Retrostar Vintage Clothing
Melbourne
First up, we've got Retrostar Vintage Clothing in Melbourne. If you're a fan of all things retro, then this is the place for you. With an impressive collection of vintage clothing and accessories spanning from the 1920s to the 1990s, you're sure to find something that'll make you stand out from the crowd. Just don't blame us if you end up going full-on disco fever!
Lions Club of Richmond
Adelaide
Located in Adelaide, the Lions Club of Richmond is a secondhand gold mine filled with vintage treasures. From furniture to bric-a-brac, they have it all, and with prices ranging from just $3 for clothing to $30 for furniture, it's an incredibly affordable shopping destination. Open on Wednesdays and the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month, be sure to get there early to snap up the best deals. Best of all, all proceeds go towards supporting various charities and people in need.
SWOP
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
For those of you looking to swap or shop for pre-loved clothing and accessories, we've got SWOP Clothing Exchange with stores in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Their swap service allows you to exchange your own clothes for store credit, making it a great way to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Plus, who doesn't love a good old-fashioned swap meet?
Vampt Vintage Design
Sydney
If you're in Sydney, make sure to check out Vampt Vintage Design. This vintage furniture store offers a range of pieces from some of the world's most iconic designers, including Charles and Ray Eames and Arne Jacobsen. So why settle for a mass-produced piece when you can have a one-of-a-kind vintage find?
Vinnies Northbridge
Perth
For a thrift shopping experience with a vintage twist, head on over to Vinnies in Northbridge, Perth. This store specialises in retro and vintage wares, with a charming atmosphere that'll make you feel like you've stepped back in time. For the ultimate fashion adventure, book a private shopping experience with your friends and shop uninterrupted after hours.
Suitcase Rummage
Brisbane
Suitcase Rummage isn't your ordinary community market - it's a market that truly represents and embodies sustainability, where you can buy preloved and handmade creations straight from the seller’s suitcase. Started in Brisbane as an alternative to the mass-produced community market scene, Suitcase Rummage has now expanded across the country as a sustainable market alternative.
Antique Emporium
Hobart
Located in Devonport, Tasmania, the Antique Emporium is a must for furniture lovers. Get ready to time-travel and discover unique treasures that'll make your home stand out (in a good way). Whether you're into vintage or mid-century modern, this shop has something for everyone. Come for the antiques, stay for the friendly service and maybe even take a guided tour of the store!
So there you have it – our top picks for the best thrift and second-hand stores in Australia, with a special bonus of some vintage furniture shops and markets thrown in. Who knows, maybe you'll even find that perfect piece that you never knew you needed.
Happy thrifting!
Need a car to help transport your thrifted treasure? Search vans, utes and cars near you.
Want even more thrifting inspo? Check out Broadsheet’s guide to the best Aussie vintage stores.
