Getting Real About the NYC Second-Hand Scene

The NYC thrifting scene is a whirlwind of possibilities! This city's fashion trends change so fast that yesterday's must-haves quickly become today's thrift store finds. You're not just dealing with one or two stores, but an ocean of options. You might think you need to go to one specific neighborhood to find a specific type of store, but surprisingly you can find a good range of all kinds of second hand shops all over the city.

Whether you're looking to score some vintage gems from the past, a rare designer bag, or just a pair of cool jeans that nobody else has, there is a spot for you! Whatever your style or budget, you're likely to find something here. It can feel overwhelming at first, but don't worry, we'll break it all down for you.

Okay, let’s talk about the different types of second-hand stores:

• Curated Consignment Boutiques offer designer labels and high-quality pieces, often with a very organized and curated feel.
• Vintage & Retro Shops are where you can find clothing and accessories from past decades.
• Community-Based Thrift Stores are non-profit spots that are often filled with donations and offer a range of items at affordable prices.
• Independent Second-Hand Shops are usually smaller, local stores that have a unique style and a wide variety of items.
• Specialty Second-Hand Shops focus on specific items like furniture or books, and they can be located within any of the other shop types listed above.

Don't be afraid to check out all of the different kinds of stores because they all offer different types of opportunities!

NYC has a long history of fashion, so that translates to really unique finds in the second hand stores. Because of the city's diversity, you'll find styles here that you won't find anywhere else.

Breaking Down the Neighborhoods - Where to Hunt

Alright, let's talk neighborhoods – while each one has its own vibe and some unique stores, you'll want to stick to areas with a higher concentration of shops if you're looking for the most variety in one go. So, let's dive into some of the best spots to find second hand stores!

Manhattan

SoHo:

Overview: SoHo is where high-end fashion and art collide! You'll discover some of the most stunning Curated Consignment Boutiques that will make you want to spend hours exploring.

Thrifting Style: Expect to find a range of designer items and high-quality pieces at a range of prices.

Top Store Recommendations:

The RealReal: 80 Wooster St. - Focuses on designer consignment items. Great for higher-end, curated designer finds.

INA: 101 Thompson St. - Has a range of designer clothing, accessories, and shoes. Look out for good deals on brands.

What Goes Around Comes Around: 351 W Broadway - Focuses on vintage designer clothing, and has a wide range of items.

Upper East Side:

Overview: The Upper East Side is a mix of upscale residential and high-end retail, it also has some amazing Curated Consignment Boutiques.

Thrifting Style: You'll find classic and designer items, often in great condition.

Top Store Recommendations:

Michael's, The Consignment Shop for Women: 1041 Madison Ave. - Specializes in designer consignment items, with a wide range of items.

Second Time Around: 1040 Lexington Ave. - Carries a variety of designer pieces. Look here for gently used items at a discount.

Designer Revival: 324 E 81st St. - A place that sells pre-owned luxury goods, including handbags.

Greenwich Village:

Overview: This area has an eclectic feel to it, it is a mix of second-hand store types, such as Vintage & Retro Shops and Community-Based Thrift Stores.

Thrifting Style: Find a mix of vintage items, unique and art-inspired pieces, and some quirky finds.

Top Store Recommendations:

No Relation Vintage: 163 Bleecker St. - This place has a mix of vintage items that are organized by type and color, which makes it easy to shop.

Buffalo Exchange: 114 W 26th St. - A popular store that sells a variety of clothes.

Monk Thrift Shop: 117 Macdougal St. - This shop has an amazing selection of retro clothes.

Lower East Side:

Overview: The Lower East Side is known for its edgy and alternative style, with a lot of Community-Based Thrift Stores and Independent Second-Hand Shops.

Thrifting Style: Here you'll find a great mix of affordable and unique pieces, with a focus on edgier and trend-forward styles.

Top Store Recommendations:

Goodwill: 252 E 5th St - This thrift store is a great community spot where you will find an amazing assortment of finds.

L Train Vintage: 173 Avenue A - As mentioned before, L Train has an amazing selection of retro and vintage clothes.

Buffalo Exchange: 132 Allen St - This store has a wide range of items from more modern brands.

Harlem:

Overview: Harlem has a rich history that is reflected in its stores, which are mostly Community-Based Thrift Stores and Independent Second-Hand Shops.

Thrifting Style: Expect a mix of vintage pieces, cultural apparel, and community-focused items.

Top Store Recommendations:

Unique Boutique Thrift: 2247 3rd Ave - A thrift store where you will find everything from clothing to furniture.

Harlem Thrift Store: 19 W 120th St. - This place is a great community resource, with a variety of unique items.

Housing Works Thrift Shop: 245 W 104th St - Another location of this popular community thrift shop.

Brooklyn

Williamsburg:

Overview: A trendy and hip neighborhood, Williamsburg has Independent Second-Hand Shops with a focus on modern and curated pieces.

Thrifting Style: Here you will find lots of curated and trend-forward items.

Top Store Recommendations:

Beacon's Closet: 74 Guernsey St. - A very popular and large second-hand shop. You can always find something here.

Crossroads Trading: 135 N 7th St. - This shop is a popular spot and you can expect to find clothes that align with current trends.

Monk Vintage: 536 Driggs Ave. - A great vintage shop with a variety of styles, worth checking out.

Bushwick:

Overview: Known for its artistic and eclectic feel, Bushwick has Independent Second Hand Shops and Vintage & Retro Shops.

Thrifting Style: Expect to find a mix of unique and artistic items.

Top Store Recommendations:

* Urban Jungle: 118 Knickerbocker Ave. - A popular store with a wide variety of clothes and accessories.

* L Train Vintage: 108 Knickerbocker Ave. - Another location for this chain, with a good selection of vintage clothes.

* Shop 112: 112 Knickerbocker Ave. - A small vintage store with a wide variety of clothes and accessories.

Practical Thrifting Tips for NYC

• Best Times to Go: Hit the stores on weekdays, especially in the morning for the best selection.

• Navigating Crowds: Be patient, take your time, and don't be afraid to dig! The best finds are in unexpected places.

• Cash vs. Card: Carry some cash just in case, as smaller shops often prefer it.

• Checking Quality: Always check zippers, buttons, and look for any damage before committing to buying.

• What to Wear: Layer your clothes to easily try stuff on, and always wear comfortable shoes.

• Using the App: Don't forget to use our app to help you plan your thrifting trip!

Your unique NYC thrifting adventure awaits! We hope you enjoy every minute of it.

We're on a mission to make sustainable shopping more accessible to you, and our app is one of the ways that we are doing that! Use it to filter through some of the store types discussed above and find even more stores. Also, check out our thrifting guides if you are new to thrifting! Download our app now and start finding your one-of-a-kind items!