New York is cemented in popular culture as a centre of culture, fashion, music and art, so it’s no surprise that New York is a thrift and vintage shoppers dream. With such a wide range of people who call New York their home, there’s something for everyone in the multitude of second-hand and vintage shops that exist in the city today. With so much choice it can be difficult to know where to go; follow our guide on where to shop for vintage clothing in New York and you’ll be picking up vintage treasures in no time.
Awoke Vintage, www.awokevintage.com
Offering vintage basics such as t-shirts, denim, and many a floral pattern, Awoke Vintage offers a boutique feel in Brooklyn. Beginning as a small market stall in Perth, Australia, Awoke Vintage has the credentials to prove their dedication to vintage clothing and thorough knowledge of the market. They even offer a ‘buy through Instagram’ service which means you can reserve or buy a piece you’ve fallen in love with through the app, so you never have to miss out on a dream piece again!
Where is it? 132 North 5th Street, Brooklyn, New York, 11249
When is it open? 7 days a week, 10am - 9pm
How can I get there? Via train, the nearest station is Bedford Avenue Station
Horizons Vintage, www.horizonsvintage.com
Specialising in women’s accessories such as handbags, jewelry and shoes, as well as vintage clothes for men and women, Horizons is a more upmarket vintage clothing store, offering period items such as flapper dresses and oversized wool coats. Prices reflect this upmarket end of the vintage spectrum but all items are in great condition and well cared for, as well as the store having a friendly community feel.
Where is it? 381 Metropolitan Avenue, Brooklyn, New York
When is it open? 7 days a week, 11am - 7pm
How can I get there? Via train, the nearest station is Metropolitan Avenue Station
New York Vintage, www.newyorkvintage.com
If you’re looking for high-end, designer vintage, New York Vintage is the place to be. Offering Ralph Lauren, Chanel and more, prices begin at $100 and go to over $1,000. With a high price point, the vintage clothes in question are in immaculate condition and each piece comes with a label which provides a short description and some context for the item. The collection spans over 100 years, providing a thorough archive of important vintage fashion throughout the last century.
Where is it? 117 West 25th Street, Chelsea, New York
When is it open? Call for hours
How can I get there? 24hr parking available across the street, or the nearest train station is 23rd Street
The Break, www.shopthebreak.com
With a beautifully curated selection, it won’t take you long to fall in love with a piece (and likely the rest of the suggested outfits too!) A friendly and welcoming atmosphere with knowledgeable staff means you can take your time to decide on an item and make use of the treasure trove of knowledge available. Clothes come in good condition and are well looked after, are reasonably priced, and a wide range of styles are available.
Where is it? 82 Dobbin Street, Brooklyn, New York
When is it open? Monday - Saturday 12pm - 7pm, Sunday 12pm - 6pm
How can I get there? Nassau Avenue Station is the nearest train station
Metropolis Village, www.metropolisvintageonline.com
With a number of celebrity customers and a reputation for quality vintage t-shirts, Metropolis Village also offers much more. Jackets, jumpers, accessories and more can be found in this carefully curated vintage store. It’s fair to say t-shirts are the main attraction - from $35 to $150, ranging from music to sports to hobbies and more, there’s certainly something for everyone in this quirky local store.
Where is it? 803 Broadway, New York, 10003
When is it open? 7 days a week, 12pm - 8pm
How can I get there? The nearest station is 8 Street Station
Amarcord Vintage Fashion, www.amarcordvintagefashion.com
An Italian owned boutique, Amarcord offers European vintage high-fashion from Italy and beyond. Well known Italian designers such as Dolce & Gabbana are mixed in with other designers to create the edgy aesthetic the store is known for. There is also a second store in Soho which is dedicated to high-end items made by designers like Gucci and Versace. Vintage items range in age from Victorian to the 90s! A little bit of something for everyone, whether at the small and quirky Williamsburg store or the larger Soho shop.
Where is it? 233 Bedford Avenue, New York, 11211
When is it open? 7 days a week, 12pm - 8pm
How can I get there? The nearest train station is Bedford Avenue Station
AuH20, www.auh2oshop.com
A curated thrift boutique, this is a vintage store for the thrifty buyer with most items under $25. Carefully selected items line the walls, mostly womenswear and womens accessories such as jewelry, bags and shoes. Even better, permanent $5 and $10 racks are staples of the store so even those on a tight budget can afford a vintage treat for themselves. Clothes are in good condition and well kept.
Where is it? 84 E 7th Street, Brooklyn, 11218
When is it open? 7 days a week, 12pm - 8pm
How can I get there? The nearest train station is 1 Avenue Station
Eleven Consignment Boutique
As the name suggests, this is a consignment store which allows clients to sell their own items in store, with the business taking a commission on sales. For customers looking to pick up a vintage bargain, this makes it worth the visit - prices are low and quality is often high. Vintage clothing is in near mint condition and includes the likes of Chanel and Marc Jacobs at far less than designer prices - expect to pay up to $350 for a dress. The atmosphere is bubbly and the store feels more like a treasure trove than a shop!
Where is it? 180 1st Ave, New York, 10009
When is it open? 10am - 10pm 7 days a week
How can I get there? The nearest train station is 1 Avenue Station
As you can see, there is no shortage of vintage and thrift store in New York. Whether you’re a resident or tourist, get exploring and get your hands on some vintage treasures today!
Have we missed any good shops? Drop a note in the comments & we can update it :)
All pictures via Unsplash