Normally any excuse will do for a shopping spree, but why build up that Afterpay debt when you can revamp your whole wardrobe without breaking the bank. From second-hand boutiques to thrift shop treasure troves, the Gold Coast has got the goods for great op shopping. And trust us, shopping is a lot more fun without that guilty feeling. Not only will you find unique new (or old) threads, but you’ll also earn some seriously good karma by shopping sustainably and giving to charity.
So gather your pennies and get hunting at these vintage and op shops on the Gold Coast.
Arkive Vintage
Surfers Paradise
Hidden away in Surfers Paradise is Arkive Vintage—your go-to for authentic vintage apparel. Travel back to a place where everyone looked hip all day, every day. Arkive’s European vintage collection with a trend-conscious touch, ranges from 1950’s tailored suit pants to 1990’s Drew-Barrymore-eat-your-heart-out crop tops. Be sure to check out the accessory cabinets for unique cuff links, tasselled earrings and even a few original clip-ons.
Miss Brown Vintage
Burleigh
If you’re after that perfect pair of worn in ‘boyfriend’ jeans and the comfiest band tee then Miss Brown Vintage is for you. A strong believer in ethical fashion, their range is 1970's boho chic is absolutely epic. Specialising in vintage denim, re-modified vintage and upcycled clothing, they source their vintage products from all over the world, including USA, UK, Europe and Japan, so you know their range is legit.
Salvos
West Burleigh
If you're looking to overhaul your entire wardrobe then look no further than the West Burleigh Salvos who have a HUGE range of pre-loved threads. Imagine if every second-hand shop you’d ever been in combined to create one giant store, with a collection so good you wanted to empty your wallet there. Well, this is it. Fusing new, old, fancy and fierce, this op shop has something for everyone, making it well worthy of its place in the list of best op shops on the Gold Coast. And you’ll be supporting our local volunteers while you’re there, so you can shop without the guilt.
The Village Markets Rack Sale
Burleigh
Consider yourself busy every first and third Sunday of the month for the next 20 years. Burleigh Heads State School is The Village Markets’ playground and the place to go when on the hunt for trendy, locally made threads. If you’re a mad keen op shopper, head along to the rack sale, now held at both of their markets, where you can pick up pre-loved indie outfits collected by our local fashionistas and look damn fine in the process.
Antique Centre
Miami
Whether it is in the form of a retro painting, vintage armchair or pre-loved overalls, Miami’s Antique Centre has got you covered but we're sad to say, not for much longer. Specialising in rare antiques, 1920’s to 1980’s fashion and interesting gallery pieces, the much loved store is officially closing its doors 30 June. They're hosting a huge closing down sale with everything a whopping 30-50% off. We suggest you make a beeline for this place.
RSPCA
Burleigh
Set among the Burleigh industrial estate you’ll find a pre-loved furniture wonderland, filled with striped couches, paisley rocking chairs, and coffee tables galore. Deck your new pad out with all of the necessities you’ll need to throw your house warming party—a recipe book for dinner as well as plates and cutlery for the crew and cocktail glasses and teacups. Get in touch with that mate who has a van and stock up on the goods at the RSPCA. Plus 100% of profits goes to helping out our furry friends.
Hunt and Gather Vintage
Burleigh
Hunt and Gather have taken thrifting to a whole new level. After searching far and wide for only the best vintage homewares, furniture, fashion pieces and collectable items, these geniuses bring pre-loved treasures straight to your Facebook feed. Scroll through their online Facebook shop where all pieces are posted and new collections uploaded each Tuesday and Thursday night at 7pm. Simply comment “sold” under your chosen old world piece, DM the page and pick up from their HQ at Mo's Desert Clubhouse. They also hold vintage markets with music and a coffee van every second month if you're the type of person that likes to try before they buy.
Her Wardrobe Market
Broadbeach
Her Wardrobe sets up shop on the last weekend of each month (most recently at Albert Waterways Community Centre) and invites local brands, boutiques and vintage sellers, along with locals, to sell their wardrobes.
Admission is free with the next market kicking off at a 9am Saturday 25 May.
Found
Tugun
Step one foot inside this vintage store and you'll instantly fall in love with heir mid-century Australian and European pieces. And while it's not a thrift store, it's packed full of vintage gems so we had to include it in this list. The legends at Found in Tugun jet set around the globe each quarter to bring you incredible antiques from all over the world so you can pick yourself up a statement piece for your house. Found can also restore any goods you already own but need a little TLC. Abundant with groovy pre-loved gems, you’re bound to find a real treasure at Found.
AWLQ
Burleigh
This op shop might be small in size but inside you’ll find a literal treasure trove of vintage delights. Think perfectly worn leather jackets, endless denim and designer threads. They’ve also got vintage glasses, art and homewares. Plus, all profits go to the Animal Welfare League so everyone leaves a winner.
Image Credit: Stocksy