So, I continue my journey to save money wherever I go. The journey continues wherever I go. BerlinI found an advertisement for a second-hand shop hidden behind a row of white and grey buildings. I walked in to a jump scare of colors and fabrics—and was immediately greeted by a towering pair of heels. It was a ‘weigh and pay’ store. You put your favorite items in a bag to be paid a flat (and very reasonable) rate. I’d never remember that trip—nor would I have something to wear to get into the notoriously elitist nightclubs—the same way without that store.
Thrifting with friends is a great way to bond. I was particularly happy for one of my close friends who finally felt comfortable in his own style and clothing. navigating his queer identity. We thrifted with each other in cities throughout Europe. In London, he put on a fabulous set of vintage silk tops. He called it an “edgy-chic-grandma” and wore it to dance that night. And thus began the start of a new phase—I’ve never seen someone look so much like themselves as he did in that fitting room. How else could he have discovered his superpower to create such looks if it wasn’t for the secondhand shops?
Enjoy shopping on Long Island, and everywhere New EnglandMost thrift stores in UK are charities or non-profits that support either clinical research. environmental initiativesDonations can be made to communities with lower incomes or those who are in need. You’re helping the environment and reducing textile waste by shopping at these stores. overproduction. In 2025 fast fashion giants are still pumping out clothes at breakneck speed—many destined for landfills across the Global South. Fast fashion is fueling the global waste crisis. the latest UN report reads. And while I’m not perfect—I’ve dipped into chains when it felt “necessary”—shopping at a mega-store never fails to feel hollow. There’s nothing like the thrill of rummaging through thrift store racks with your heart pounding and finding something that is undeniably perfect.
What to do in the world for a little bit of thrift
New York City There will always be some chain thrift shops like Beacon’s Closet or Buffalo Exchange. However, I suggest avoiding the crowds by visiting smaller shops. Some of these stores, like Monk Vintage Williamsburg has a variety of choices. Some, like Trintage Harlem has a more curated collection. Lower East Side is an oasis of art. Desert Vintage presents archival designer pieces—and they just recently started selling menswear, too. The outdoor flea market is a great place to go in the summer months. My favorite one is Dumbo, Brooklyn where you can catch the ferry and shop at tables set up under the Brooklyn Bridge by cool retailers who sell secondhand clothes or crafts. On Sundays, be sure to visit the Grand Bazaar On the Upper West Side, you’ll find the best designer accessories and re-stored items.
Sydney
You can spend a day (or more) shopping in Newtown. It’s hard to forget a flirty velour patterned dress in orange and yellow with leis. I wish I had purchased it. Vintage313. It’s one of those shops where the prices aren’t outrageous—which can be dangerous in a store full of rare finds. There’s no schedule but you’ll still find plenty of vintage vendors selling their best picks at and around Camperdown Memorial Rest ParkSometimes with live music performances too. Surry Hills is another treasure for any vintage fiend—from C’s Flashback You can also find out more about the following: Storeroom Vintage. The market, which is open every month on the first Saturday, is also home to a lot of vibrant art and vintage clothing, all at reasonable prices, along with food stalls, live music, and lots of other things.
London
Outside of London’s Square Mile, you can find amazing thrifting and antique shops. You can find amazing vintage shops on the side streets in London. Shoreditch Find trendy chain stores Atika London, buzzy Rokit Covent Garden is a place of constant happenings Bricklane Vintage East London. Shop in every store that calls out to you Portobello Road in Notting HillDo not forget to visit Lover’s Lane. Stop at the end of the street Found and VisionKate Moss and Alexa Chung are among the fashion icons who love this brand.
The UK
Nottingham is a city filled with music and art, located north of London. Take a bus from London for a day or two here—just make sure to stop and shop at easy-to-navigate OxfamCow Vintage, and airy BraderieIt also offers free shipping to the UK. You should not miss out on the charm of quirky town of Swansea in the Gower. The coast is perfect for surfers, as the city center is for stylish shoppers—you’re likely to find your next favorite item at YMCA Retail.
Paris
The best thrift store in Paris? Cinemachine, Montmartre. The small space under the shadow of Montmartre is a haven of chaos organized. Sacré-Coeur The basement is filled with clothing and you can find it by going down the spiral staircase. This is where I got my fur coat, and a date-ready red dress. In Marais, at Palettist VintageFrom designer to unmarked, we have it all. Thanx God I’m a V.I.P. Another huge store that was the victim of our shopping sprees.
Berlin
The second-hand market in Berlin is too easy to find: PicknWeights There are many hidden gems in the city. But the one located in Kreuzberg is the sweetest. Around the corner is where you will find Checkpoint and Cinema. The racks and bins of this store are full of hidden treasures, even though they’re more obvious and larger. City-Market is located around the corner. You can find colorful jackets and button-down basics. This is not to be confused with Berlin’s actual city market. Trendiest among them: Neukölln The “Nowkoelln Flow Market” is located directly on the Maybachufer.)
