Thrifting in the NY 101

By: Zoey Looney

If you’re anything like me, about 50-70% of your closet is off-priced or thrifted.  Before I moved, thrifting in Ohio was my all-time favorite thing to do.  When I first came to NYC, I was so discouraged by both the prices of most second-hand store and honestly the product as well.  However, with time I came to discover that cheap and trendy thrift shops are in fact out there.  All it takes to get your major thrifting on is a train ride to Williamsburg, Brooklyn.  Listen, I am telling you, this place is the all-time Holy Grail of all thrifting worlds.  Here is a list of the top five thrift stores in Williamsburg based off of price and merchandise.

1. L Train Vintage

You might of seen these bad boys in different areas of the city as well.  All locations of this store are amazing, but the Williamsburg location is like none other.  If you are one for 80’s and 90’s vintage, this is the place to be.  Not to mention, the prices are dirt cheap.  Best things to hunt for here are denim pieces and throwback Tees.  

2. Urban Jungle

Conveniently, Urban Jungle is located right next to L train vintage. This place is 90’s heaven. If you are looking for oversized flannels, ski jackets, or camo, this is the place to be. Also, the pricing couldn’t possibly be beat.

3. Collections

If you’re trying to travel back a few more decades in time to get the ultimate vintage pieces, take a trip to Collections.  Walking into this store feels like you took a time machine to the 40’s. Best items to find here are blouses, blazers, dresses, and silk pieces.  Since these garments are even more vintage, they are a little pricier but still are moderately priced.

4. Worship

Worship includes clothes from a little bit of every decade from 30’s-90’s, but they still have their key pieces that stand out.  The best things to shop for at Worship are leather shoes and denim pants. This store is moderately priced.

5. Beacons closet.

Beacon’s closet is all about the 80’s and 90’s, my personal favorite.  In particular, this store has a large collection of tennishoes, shorts, and skirts.

Regardless of your style or price range, Wiliamsburg will have the place for you.  If you are in need of a shopping trip, but don’t want to break the bank (while keeping it sustainable!), it's definitely worth a day-trip.