Discover the Thrills of Thrift Shopping: Your Ultimate Guide to 17 La Thrift Stores
Exploring thrift stores is an exciting adventure, offering a unique shopping experience and a chance to uncover hidden gems. Los Angeles, with its vibrant culture and diverse communities, is home to an array of thrift stores, each with its own personality and treasures waiting to be discovered. From vintage fashion finds to unique home decor, thrift shopping in LA promises an enjoyable and sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe and home. Join us on this journey as we unveil the best thrift stores in LA, providing an ultimate guide to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the amazing hauls these stores have to offer.
The Charm of Thrift Shopping
Thrift shopping has gained immense popularity, appealing to a wide range of shoppers, from those seeking sustainable and budget-friendly options to fashion enthusiasts hunting for one-of-a-kind pieces. The thrill of discovering a hidden gem at an affordable price is an exhilarating experience. Thrift stores offer a diverse selection of items, often including vintage and designer pieces that can be found nowhere else.
Benefits of Thrift Shopping:
- Sustainability: By choosing second-hand items, you contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly shopping habit, reducing waste and supporting a circular economy.
- Affordability: Thrift stores provide access to high-quality items at a fraction of their original price, making luxury and designer brands more accessible.
- Uniqueness: Each thrift store has its own character, and the items within reflect the local community and culture, ensuring a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.
- Community Support: Many thrift stores are run by charities or non-profit organizations, and your purchases contribute to supporting these causes.
Exploring LA’s Thrift Scene
Los Angeles boasts an impressive array of thrift stores, each with its own specialty and charm. From trendy vintage boutiques to massive warehouses filled with treasures, LA’s thrift scene offers something for every taste and budget. Here, we present a comprehensive guide to 17 of the best thrift stores in LA, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the incredible hauls these stores have to offer.
1. Buffalo Exchange - Silver Lake
Address: 3900 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Buffalo Exchange is a beloved thrift store chain known for its carefully curated selection of vintage and contemporary clothing. The Silver Lake location, in particular, offers a unique shopping experience with its trendy and eclectic vibe. Here, you’ll find a mix of vintage finds, designer pieces, and modern styles, all at affordable prices.
What to Expect:
- A wide range of vintage and modern clothing, including unique dresses, jackets, and accessories.
- Regular sales and promotions, making it an even more budget-friendly option.
- A friendly and knowledgeable staff who can assist you in finding the perfect piece.
2. Out of the Closet Thrift Store - Hollywood
Address: 1226 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Out of the Closet is a unique thrift store with a mission-driven approach. All proceeds from this store go towards supporting HIV/AIDS research and healthcare services. With a vast selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods, you can feel good about your purchases while finding great deals.
Highlights:
- An extensive collection of designer and brand-name clothing at significantly reduced prices.
- Regular themed sales, such as “Everything $5” or “Buy One, Get One Free” events.
- A well-organized layout, making it easy to browse and find what you’re looking for.
3. Crossroads Trading - West Hollywood
Address: 8000 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Crossroads Trading is a popular thrift store chain known for its high-quality, gently used clothing and accessories. The West Hollywood location offers a stylish and curated selection, perfect for those seeking trendy and unique fashion finds.
Features:
- A focus on contemporary and designer clothing, with a wide range of styles to choose from.
- A dedicated section for luxury and designer brands, featuring labels like Chanel, Prada, and Gucci.
- Regular buying events where you can sell your pre-loved items and earn store credit.
4. Square Circle - Los Feliz
Address: 1833 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Square Circle is a hidden gem in the Los Feliz neighborhood, offering a carefully curated selection of vintage and modern clothing. This boutique-style thrift store provides a unique and intimate shopping experience, with a focus on quality and sustainability.
Unique Offerings:
- A diverse range of vintage clothing, including rare and hard-to-find pieces.
- A carefully selected collection of modern and contemporary fashion, catering to various tastes.
- A commitment to sustainability, with a focus on ethical and eco-friendly practices.
5. The Salvation Army Family Store - Mid-City
Address: 5250 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019
The Salvation Army Family Store is a well-known thrift store chain with a mission to support local communities. The Mid-City location offers a vast selection of clothing, furniture, and household items, all at incredibly affordable prices.
Benefits:
- An extensive range of gently used clothing, including brand-name and designer pieces.
- Regular sales and discounts, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
- A large furniture section, perfect for those looking to furnish their homes on a budget.
6. Savers - Van Nuys
Address: 6200 Sepulveda Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91411
Savers is a popular thrift store chain known for its massive selection and affordable prices. The Van Nuys location is a treasure trove, offering a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home goods.
What Makes it Special:
- An enormous inventory, ensuring a diverse and ever-changing selection of items.
- A dedicated section for vintage and retro clothing, perfect for those seeking unique fashion finds.
- Regular promotions and discounts, making it an ideal destination for bargain hunters.
7. Goodwill - Downtown LA
Address: 926 E 12th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Goodwill is a well-loved thrift store chain, with the Downtown LA location offering a vast selection of pre-loved items. From clothing and accessories to household goods and furniture, Goodwill provides an affordable and sustainable shopping experience.
Key Features:
- A large and diverse clothing section, with a focus on contemporary and brand-name pieces.
- Regular sales and promotions, including color-coded discount days.
- A commitment to community support, with proceeds going towards job training and employment programs.
8. The Exchange - Pasadena
Address: 400 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105
The Exchange is a unique thrift store with a mission to support local artists and charities. Located in Pasadena, this store offers a carefully curated selection of vintage and contemporary clothing, as well as a range of art and home decor items.
Standout Factors:
- A focus on sustainability and supporting local communities.
- A diverse range of vintage and modern clothing, with a particular emphasis on unique and quirky pieces.
- Regular pop-up events and collaborations with local artists, providing a dynamic shopping experience.
9. The Vintage Hunter - Long Beach
Address: 2031 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90802
The Vintage Hunter is a boutique-style thrift store specializing in vintage and retro clothing. Located in Long Beach, this store offers a carefully selected collection of one-of-a-kind pieces, perfect for those seeking a unique and authentic style.
Unique Aspects:
- A vast collection of vintage and retro clothing, including rare and hard-to-find items.
- A focus on quality and authenticity, ensuring each piece is carefully curated and in excellent condition.
- A dedicated section for vintage accessories, including bags, shoes, and jewelry.
10. The Getup - Venice
Address: 1301 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
The Getup is a trendy thrift store located in the heart of Venice. This boutique-style store offers a carefully curated selection of vintage and contemporary clothing, with a focus on sustainability and ethical fashion.
What Sets it Apart:
- A unique and eclectic mix of vintage and modern fashion, catering to various styles.
- A commitment to sustainability, with a focus on promoting eco-friendly and ethical practices.
- Regular pop-up events and collaborations, keeping the shopping experience fresh and exciting.
11. American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Sherman Oaks
Address: 14615 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
The American Cancer Society Discovery Shop is a mission-driven thrift store, with proceeds going towards cancer research and patient support. This store offers a diverse selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods, all at affordable prices.
Key Highlights:
- A well-organized and curated selection of pre-loved items, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience.
- Regular sales and promotions, making it an excellent choice for bargain hunters.
- A dedicated section for designer and luxury items, featuring high-end brands at discounted prices.
12. Unique Thrift Store - North Hollywood
Address: 11420 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606
Unique Thrift Store is a popular destination for those seeking a diverse and eclectic mix of thrift items. With a vast selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods, this store offers something for everyone.
What to Look For:
- A massive inventory, ensuring a constantly changing selection of unique finds.
- A dedicated section for vintage and retro clothing, perfect for those seeking a vintage look.
- Regular promotions and discounts, making it an affordable choice for shoppers.
13. St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store - Santa Monica
Address: 1447 7th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store is a community-focused thrift store, with proceeds going towards supporting local charities and programs. This store offers a wide range of pre-loved items, including clothing, furniture, and household goods.
Notable Features:
- A well-organized and curated selection, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.
- A focus on quality and affordability, ensuring great value for your money.
- Regular sales and promotions, including special events like “Dollar Days” and “Half-Off Wednesdays.”
14. The Store Kearny Mesa - San Diego
Address: 4655 Kearny Mesa Rd, San Diego, CA 92111
The Store Kearny Mesa is a unique thrift store with a mission to support the local community. Located in San Diego, this store offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods, with a focus on sustainability and ethical practices.
Standout Factors:
- A diverse range of pre-loved items, including brand-name and designer pieces.
- A commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
- Regular events and workshops, providing an engaging and educational shopping experience.
15. Goodwill Boutique - Costa Mesa
Address: 1740 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Goodwill Boutique is a stylish and curated thrift store, offering a unique shopping experience. Located in Costa Mesa, this store provides a carefully selected collection of vintage and contemporary clothing, accessories, and home decor.
What Makes it Special:
- A focus on quality and style, with a curated selection of pre-loved items.
- A range of designer and brand-name pieces, offering luxury at affordable prices.
- Regular pop-up events and collaborations, keeping the shopping experience fresh and exciting.
16. The Rescue House Thrift Store - Temecula
Address: 42379 Winchester Rd, Temecula, CA 92590
The Rescue House Thrift Store is a community-driven thrift store, with proceeds going towards supporting local animal rescue organizations. This store offers a diverse selection of pre-loved items, including clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Key Features:
- A well-organized and curated selection, ensuring a pleasant and efficient shopping experience.
- A focus on sustainability and supporting local causes, with a mission to make a positive impact.
- Regular sales and promotions, making it an affordable choice for shoppers.
17. Housing Works Thrift Store - Encinitas
Address: 615 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Housing Works Thrift Store is a mission-driven thrift store, with proceeds going towards supporting people living with HIV/AIDS. This store offers a diverse selection of pre-loved items, including clothing, furniture, and home goods.
Notable Aspects:
- A wide range of gently used clothing, including brand-name and designer pieces.
- A commitment to social impact, with a focus on supporting those in need.
- Regular sales and promotions, including special events like “Dollar Days” and “Half-Price Wednesdays.”
Tips for a Successful Thrift Store Haul
To make the most of your thrift store shopping experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Arrive Early: Many thrift stores receive new donations daily, so arriving early increases your chances of finding the best items.
- Be Open-Minded: Thrift stores offer a unique and diverse selection. Embrace the unexpected and be open to trying new styles and brands.
- Check for Quality: Always inspect items for any signs of damage or wear. Look for high-quality materials and construction.
- Try Before You Buy: Don’t be afraid to try on clothing to ensure a perfect fit. Many thrift stores have fitting rooms available.
- Negotiate: Some thrift stores may be open to negotiating prices, especially for bulk purchases or items with minor flaws.
- Research Brands: Familiarize yourself with popular and high-quality brands to spot great deals on designer items.
- Explore Regularly: Thrift stores often have a constantly changing inventory, so frequent visits increase your chances of finding hidden gems.
Notes:
🌟 Note: The opening hours and inventory of thrift stores can vary, so it's always a good idea to check their website or call ahead before visiting.
Final Thoughts
Exploring LA’s thrift stores is an adventure filled with unique finds and exciting discoveries. From vintage boutiques to community-driven stores, each location offers a distinct shopping experience. Whether you’re seeking sustainable fashion, supporting a good cause, or simply looking for a bargain, LA’s thrift scene has something for everyone. Happy thrifting!
FAQ
What are some tips for finding the best deals at thrift stores?
+To find the best deals, arrive early, be open-minded, and inspect items for quality. Regularly explore thrift stores to take advantage of their ever-changing inventory.
How can I identify designer or brand-name items at thrift stores?
+Familiarize yourself with popular brands and their logos. Look for unique details, high-quality materials, and construction that indicate a designer piece.
Are thrift stores a good option for finding unique home decor items?
+Absolutely! Thrift stores often have a wide selection of unique and vintage home decor items, offering a great way to add character to your space.
Can I negotiate prices at thrift stores?
+While not all thrift stores allow price negotiations, some may be open to it, especially for bulk purchases or items with minor flaws. It’s always worth asking!
How often do thrift stores receive new inventory?
+The frequency of new inventory varies among thrift stores. Some receive new donations daily, while others may have a more sporadic schedule. It’s best to check with the store or visit their website for updates.
