Vintage clothing isn’t just about fashion — it’s about self-expression, sustainability, and the thrill of discovering rare gems from decades past. Whether you’re chasing the perfect ’90s grunge flannel, a ’70s boho maxi dress, or ’80s designer jeans, the right thrift store can become a treasure trove of style.
But not all thrift stores are created equal. Some places specialize in curated vintage collections, while others offer true “dig-and-discover” experiences with racks packed full of hidden finds.
Here’s a guide to some of the best thrift stores for vintage clothing, covering both physical locations and online thrift spots. These stores have earned cult followings for their unbeatable selections, affordability, and unique atmospheres.
1. Goodwill (Various Locations & Online)
Goodwill is a thrift staple with thousands of stores across the U.S. Though it’s not specifically a vintage store, it’s an excellent place to dig for hidden vintage gems, especially if you enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
Why it’s great:
- Wide-ranging selection — you never know what you’ll find.
- Extremely affordable prices.
- New items are added daily.
Pro Tip: Visit locations in wealthier neighborhoods for higher-end vintage and designer finds.
2. Buffalo Exchange (Multiple U.S. Cities)
Buffalo Exchange is a trendy buy-sell-trade store that blends modern fashion with vintage gems. Known for its stylishly curated racks, it’s perfect for those who want to thrift but prefer a more organized, boutique-style experience.
Why it’s great:
- Carefully selected vintage and current fashion.
- Often features rare and high-quality vintage denim, leather, and accessories.
- You can also trade your own clothes for store credit.
Best for: Vintage streetwear, Levi’s, statement pieces.
3. Crossroads Trading (Various U.S. Cities)
Like Buffalo Exchange, Crossroads Trading focuses on buy-sell-trade but leans slightly more toward contemporary fashion with splashes of vintage and designer finds. For vintage lovers, it’s especially good for scoring designer vintage, leather jackets, boots, and bags.
Why it’s great:
- Organized and curated racks make shopping easy.
- Great place for vintage accessories and designer steals.
- Offers online shopping too.
4. What Goes Around Comes Around (New York, Miami, Online)
If you’re after luxury vintage, What Goes Around Comes Around is a legend in the world of vintage fashion. With a focus on high-end brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, this is the go-to for fashionistas seeking the crème de la crème of vintage clothing and accessories.
Why it’s great:
- Iconic store for luxury vintage and hard-to-find pieces.
- Impeccably curated, authenticated designer items.
- Available online for global shopping.
Best for: Vintage designer, luxury bags, vintage denim.
5. Thriftwares (Online & Pop-Ups)
Thriftwares is an online vintage clothing shop that also holds pop-up events across the U.S. It’s perfect for those who want carefully curated, stylish vintage without the digging.
Why it’s great:
- Focuses on trendy, wearable vintage pieces.
- High-quality selections from the ’60s to ’90s.
- Regularly updated online shop with Instagram-worthy pieces.
Best for: Vintage streetwear, denim, statement dresses.
6. The Salvation Army Thrift Store (Nationwide & International)
Salvation Army is another classic thrift chain where patience can pay off. Known for its massive inventory, it requires some hunting, but it’s one of the cheapest places to find vintage treasures, especially in lesser-known locations.
Why it’s great:
- Often overlooked vintage pieces.
- Major bargain opportunities.
- Weekly color tag discounts.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the week for fresh stock after weekend donations.
7. Depop (Online App)
Depop has transformed the vintage shopping game by turning smartphones into global thrift markets. You can browse from thousands of sellers offering vintage, streetwear, and indie fashion.
Why it’s great:
- Global access to rare and unique vintage pieces.
- Direct communication with sellers for negotiation.
- Personalized recommendations based on your style.
Best for: 90s Y2K fashion, vintage band tees, thrifted sneakers.
8. Vintage by Round Two (Los Angeles, New York, Chicago)
Round Two is an iconic name in streetwear and sneaker reselling, and their Vintage by Round Two branch focuses exclusively on vintage apparel. Expect to see rare ’90s and 2000s gems, including old-school Nike, Champion, Tommy Hilfiger, and more.
Why it’s great:
- Known for highly sought-after vintage streetwear.
- Celebrities and influencers often shop here.
- Curated vintage with nostalgic pop culture vibes.
Best for: Vintage sportswear, streetwear, pop culture tees.
9. Ragstock (Various Midwest & Southern U.S. Locations + Online)
Ragstock offers a blend of thrifted and new vintage-inspired clothing, making it great for beginners or those who want affordable vintage looks without deep diving into racks.
Why it’s great:
- Affordable vintage and vintage-style options.
- Great for bulk buying and party looks (think ‘80s ski jackets, ‘90s jeans).
- Seasonal pop-up events and curated collections.
10. Etsy Vintage Clothing Sellers
Etsy might be known for handmade crafts, but it’s also a goldmine for vintage fashion. You’ll find thousands of curated vintage shops selling everything from ’70s prairie dresses to ’90s streetwear.
Why it’s great:
- Wide selection from trusted vintage sellers.
- Easy to shop by era, color, size, or occasion.
- Secure checkout and buyer protection.
Best for: Vintage dresses, unique accessories, bridal vintage.
Final Thoughts: Vintage Thrifting Is About the Hunt
Whether you’re a die-hard thrifter who loves hours of rummaging or someone who prefers curated vintage boutiques, these thrift stores and platforms offer something for every style and budget.
For the budget-conscious, Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Depop are unbeatable.
For luxury lovers, What Goes Around Comes Around and Round Two are must-visits.
For online thrifting without leaving your couch, platforms like Depop, Etsy, and Thriftwares bring vintage directly to your fingertips.
Remember, the joy of vintage shopping comes not just from the savings but from owning pieces that tell stories, stand out, and reduce fashion waste.