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Whether you’re on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind vintage gem, designer goodies without the hefty price tag, or simply love the thrill of a post-brunch Saturday morning hunt, Sydney’s second-hand scene is overflowing with hidden treasures ready for the taking.
From curated boutiques in the Northen Beaches to the best op-shops in the Inner West, second-hand shopping is basically a sport in this city—and we're not complaining.
To help you navigate the racks, we’ve rounded up the best thrift stores in Sydney so you can score big on pre-loved fashion, homewares, books, and everything in between. Consider this your ultimate map to guilt-free shopping and securing some seriously smug finds.
SWOP Clothing Exchange
Darlinghurst and Newtown
Sustainable, stylish, and just naturally cool, SWOP is where you’ll find the pieces that will have the Depop-girlies swooning. Prepare to secure the latest in today’s trending brands as well as a great range of shoes and accessories. It’s the kind of place where you will stumble across a wedding-worthy Ganni dress hanging next to a perfectly worn-in vintage tee. With stores in Newtown and Darlinghurst, this curated buy-sell-trade space is a dream for those wanting to rotate their wardrobe without the waste. Pro tip: get in early because with high foot traffic, the best bits fly.
The Bower Reuse & Repair Centre
Marrickville
More than just a fun spot to browse after enjoying a Marricville pork roll, The Bower is a full-blown love letter to circular living. Predominantly known for furniture and homewares, we can confirm that the fashion section is quietly thriving. Whether it’s the racks of vintage pieces that feel like they belong in Emma Chamberlin's wardrobe, or the affordable coat range bound to keep you snug all winter long, this treasure-trove is a must-visit.
U-Turn
Newtown, Surry Hills, Bondi, Marrickville, and Rozelle
Vintage chain-stores are pretty rare, not unlike the stock they carry—but such is the popularity of U-Turn. This long-standing fave among seasoned thrifters hits that sweet spot between being an organised chaos and an absolute goldmine. Think leather jackets, Levi’s for days, band tees, and enough ‘90s nostalgia to make your inner teen scream. There’s even a dedicated designer rack if you’re feeling fancy. You’ll find outposts of this pre-loved paradise in Surry Hills, Bondi, Newtown, Marrickville, and Rozelle. The best part? Here the aim of the game is promoting sustainable shopping, so prices are reasonable for those shopping for a new wardrobe on a budget.
Fashion Icon Keelz On Being Raised A Thrifter And Her Favourite Penny Lane
Thrifting queen and disability advocate Keely Bradley’s shares how her love of secondhand fashion has coloured her life.
In partnership with
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Celebrating the launch of the brand new thrifting platform Vinnies Finds, we asked this thrifting queen a few quick-fire questions.
How did you get into thrifting?
“I have thrifted from as early as I can remember. All of the outfits I wore were made by my mum or second-hand from the local op shop.”
What's the best piece you have ever thrifted?
"I remember I found a vintage Penny Lane jacket, and it had just been brought into this vintage store, and I was like, wow, this has opened my entire world."
How do you thrift in your day-to-day?
“Being chronically ill, I do most of my thrifting and secondhand shopping online these days. It's a lot more accessible for me.”
Read more here.
Storeroom Vintage
Surry Hills
If your style leans Y2K, oversized streetwear, or coastal grandma with edge, consider Storeroom Vintage your new playground. It’s loud, it’s colourful, and it always has a killer edit of brands such as Ralph Lauren, Nike, Tommy Hilfiger to name a few. Although the in-store experience is hard to beat, we recommend keeping your eye on their Instagram drops because the sought after pieces move seriously fast.
Zoo Emporium
Surry Hills
Those that get it, get it. If you’re not already well-aquainted, meet the OG on the vintage scene, Zoo Emporium. This sanctuary of goodies is like stepping into a time capsule curated by a very cool aunty with unmatched taste. Spanning decades and styles, it’s home to everything from high-end vintage pieces and retro party dresses, to even the occasional Vivienne Westwood gem. Not cheap, but always iconic.
Reseller
Freshwater
Tucked just off the beach in Freshie, Reseller is the Northern Beaches’ answer to effortless and low-key luxe. This coastal gem specialises in pre-loved designer, elevated basics, and wardrobe staples that feel more Euro summer than secondhand scramble. Expect racks of Jacquemus, Camilla & Marc, vintage denim, and neutral-toned linen that’ll have you rethinking retail altogether. It’s got serious, elevated older sister energy—and the curation is chef's kiss. Plus after working up a sweat sifting through the racks, you can rest assured that the beach is near.
And with that, happy hunting. For more Sydney shopping spots, check out our guide to the best boutiques Sydney.
Image credit: Reseller, SWOP, Storeroom Vintage.
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