POP SOME TAGS: BK, NY EDITION
I think one of the major dilemmas getting in the way of people actually thrift shopping is the fact that they don’t know how to “actually thrift”. Unfortunately, there isn’t a secret formula behind copping some great thrifted gems. When I first started out, I too thought I was really bad at it, and found it really difficult to find some great pieces at a thrift store. But, with time, practice, knowledge, and a plan, I soon became pretty good at spotting pieces that I’ll be able to keep forever and use for a multitude of looks.
It isn’t just about the shopper, though. Depending on where your thrift store is located, the items within the department might be different to that compared of something you’ll find at a different location. For example, the Buffalo Exchange in Astoria, Queens may not carry as many glamorous items as you’d like, but the one in Brooklyn may have better pieces (I find both locations to be fabulous). I like to do some research before hand- that means checking for location, reading online reviews, scrolling through social media pages (especially tagged posts), reading through websites, and things as such.
Last Friday I spent the entire day in Brooklyn jumping around Williamsburg to Greenpoint searching for the best thrift stores in terms of style, location, and price. If you’re in the area, or find yourself in New York on a trip, you definitely should consider thrifting. Whether you love to thrift as much as I do or you’re just looking to get into it, I recommend these following places:
STELLA DALLAS LIVING & 10 FT SINGLE = $$
A two-in-one. If you live and breathe vintage, Stella Dallas Living in Williamsburg is your spot. With its neighbor, 10 Ft Single (they’re literally right next to each other), you can find some one-of-a-kind vintage finds in each location. While one specializes in antiques, the other doesn’t disappoint in its selection of apparel. I will say the store seems quite smothering, as the racks are super close to each other. However, I was able to buy genuine brown leather pants for $35 that are stellar, and I can’t wait to flex them.
10 Ft Single by Stella Dallas
285 N 6th St
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Stella Dallas Living
300 N 6th St
Brooklyn, NY 11211
AWOKE VINTAGE = $$$
A hotspot for designer goodies. Their selection of accessories, shoes, and clothing is *chefs kiss*. Not as overwhelming as most other thrift shops, Awoke Vintage is like a breath of fresh air. But- expect to spend some real cash here. As I said, it’s a secondhand designer go-to place, from brands like Helmut Lang to Versace. Not everything is over $100, so don’t be alarmed- it’s still a super great thrift store for some cute closet add-ons. I was able to snag 3 pairs of earrings for $16 ;)
Awoke Vintage
132 N 5th St
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Monk Vintage = $ - $$$
Another gem. Monk vintage was so fun to walk through; I would give it a 10/10 for visuals, as it gave me authentic Brooklyn second-hand shop vibes. I was able to find labels like Helmut Lang, Ann Taylor, Gap, Forever 21, H&M, Zara and more at this place! They’re so reasonably priced and a great place to find those unique pieces.
Monk Vintage
496 Driggs Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Buffalo Exchange = $$ - $$$
Classic! I love me a successful visit to Buffalo Exchange. I’m always bragging about how great their treasures are, and it’s 100% true. Not going to lie, I would say they’re a bit up there in price for a thrift store, but all locations have a greatly lit vicinity, aren’t crazily cramped, clothes are like new (with tags, even), and there’s multiple locations everywhere. During my visit, I copped an all black puffer coat for $28 and the most gorgeous rings that I wear religiously.
More great thrift stores in Brooklyn includes:
Urban Jungle {$}
L Train Vintage {$ - $$}
Beacons Closet {$$ - $$$}
Mother of Junk {$$}
All of these locations are based in Brooklyn! I love jumping around from thrift store to thrift store; I plan on dedicating another day to searching for more second-hand shops outside of Brooklyn (the best ones just so happen to be in BK). I’ll keep you all posted on my visits via my instagram stories at fcrz_ .