9 Must-Visit Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops in New York City

New York is a leading style capital. People all over the world look to emulate New Yorkers’ effortlessly cool style and one of the best places to pick up those unique pieces is in thrift stores and vintage shops. In fact, the New York second-hand shopping scene is so amazing that people travel just to pore through the shops. In addition to affordable prices, buying clothing second-hand saves clothing from landfills and supports good causes through many mission-driven businesses. While there are countless second-hand shops in New York, we’re sharing 9 of the thrift and vintage stores with the best finds in New York. 

Mr. Throwback

 
 
 
 
 
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This is a sport lover’s paradise! Mr. Throwback sells vintage sportswear from the ‘80s and ‘90s, stocking an impressive collection of jerseys, jackets, hats, and more. The owners scour second-hand sites to bring the best inventory to their shop. Celebrities like Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande have been known to pay a visit to Mr. Throwback to find some cool and unique pieces. 

Goodwill

 
 
 
 
 
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If you’ve never been to a Goodwill in New York City, you may be surprised by how small they are but don’t skip it, you can score some really great deals here! Everything is priced by category instead of by item (ex. $X for all pants), making it an extra fun treasure hunt (I once found a Ganni dress for $12). They have an assortment of men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing as well as shoes, books, and housewares. Of course, the quality of the inventory depends on the type of neighborhood, but you can find some really high-end pieces in the West Village and Upper East Side locations. If you’re looking for a wild thrifting trip, check out the bins in Queens, where all clothing is $1.99 per pound.  

Housing Works 

 
 
 
 
 
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Housing Works is a thrift store with an incredible mission to end the HIV/AIDs and homelessness crises. The store is run by volunteers and all profits go toward these causes. You can find vintage pieces, current labels, books, and furniture here. 

Crossroads

 
 
 
 
 
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This is your stop for curated modern and current styles. Crossroads purchases items on consignment, so they hand select each piece. The prices are higher than a thrift store but lower than vintage shops (although you can find great vintage pieces here). We’ve found the locations with the best selections are 26th St and 7th Ave and in Williamsburg. 

Buffalo Exchange

This is another consignment shop but with a younger/trendier vibe. Mixed in with pieces on consignment are also brand new items from boutiques, so you can expect to find on-trend pieces at an affordable price. Don’t miss their higher label pieces, where you can find Gucci, Chanel, St Laurent, and more! 

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Cure Thrift Shop

This high-end East Village thrift store was opened with the cause of funding juvenile diabetes research and spreading awareness. The eclectic shop carries furniture, jewelry, and clothing. The selection is carefully curated and is a treasure trove for unique pieces. Don’t miss the knick-knacks and furniture if you’re decorating or furnishing an apartment. 

Beacon’s Closet

 
 
 
 
 
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Multiple sources have named Beacon’s Closet the best thrift store in New York City. With 4 locations throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan, this is a must-visit thrift store for eclectic and vintage pieces. 

L Train Vintage

 
 
 
 
 
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This is one of the most popular New York vintage shops. Opened in 1999, you can count on L Train for great denim, jackets, and other clothes. They sell a mix of vintage and current styles and have a wide selection across a range of sizes, so you’re sure to find something. They have multiple locations throughout New York and have opened under other names as well, including No Relation Vintage, Village Style, and Vice Versa Vintage

Awoke Vintage

 
 
 
 
 
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This vintage shop originally opened as a stall in Australia but is now a permanent location in Brooklyn. There’s something for everyone here with a curated selection, including vintage denim. Don’t miss their $5 and $10 bins to score some pieces for a steal. 

2nd Street 

 
 
 
 
 
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If you’re looking for high-end and luxury consignment, don’t miss this spot! 2nd Street has a very curated selection of items in tip-top shape and style. You can score high street labels for a fraction of the price. It’s pricier than thrift stores and other consignment shops but has some incredible finds for those looking for higher-quality finds. 

And that concludes the list of 9 of the best thrift and vintage shops in New York. Happy hunting! 

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