For the girls that wouldn’t be caught dead wearing the same thing as your roommate, this one’s for you. Thrift shopping in L.A. isn’t for the faint of heart; its all about the hunt. But since it can be daunting, we’ve done the dirty work for you. Whether you’re searching for a vintage Chanel bag or your mom’s favorite band tee, here’s a guide for the hunt of every kind. Read on for the five best thrift stores in L.A., no matter what you’re looking for.
If You’re Looking for Seriously Cool ‘90s Pieces
The Store: Squaresville
The Address: 1800 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Squaresville is a quirky little shop that is a cool-girl go to. It houses great denim pieces and graphic tees, not to mention a super friendly staff that keeps you coming back. Check out their website for a peek at their super fun team (and niche aesthetic). As a buy-sell store, you’re sure to find trendy staff-picked pieces. The best part—it’s student budget friendly!
If You’re Looking for a Killer Deal
The Store: Jet Rag
The Address: 825 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
If you’re up for it, head to Jet Rag for Sunday $1 deals. These can be hit or miss, but the experience is something you definitely don’t want to miss. It’s flea market meets vintage shop, plus a whole lot of people searching for their own diamond in the rough. And after hours of searching, when you do find that perfect piece, it almost feels a little sweeter.
If You’re Looking for Gently Used, On-Trend Pieces
The Store: Wasteland
The Address: 7428 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Wasteland is a trendy shop with a dash of rock and roll. If your style is equal parts Vivienne Westwood and Marc Jacobs (both designers that have come to the store in search for inspiration!) look no further for this unique shop. Wasteland’s popularity means the L.A. site is one of four locations, so it isn’t exactly a mom and pop shop. However, you’ll be sure to score anything from designer bags to denim.
If You’re Looking for Crazy Good Designer Pieces
The Store: Decades
The Address: 8214 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
A showroom like space of designer dresses that you don’t need an appointment for—need I say more? Decades is the place to be for a day of luxury shopping (or maybe just looking). It has a well-earned high price point and has made an iconic name for itself around L.A.
If You’re Looking for Curated Boutique Vintage
The Store: Painted Bird
The Address: 4208 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
This one is a cute boutique space with all the fun of a good thrift hunt—without the hassle. No thrift adventure is complete without a stop in this small hippie shop. Shop Painted Bird for some fun unique pieces, all curated by the staff. Its price point isn’t necessarily a dollar deal, but it’s moderately priced for the pieces they offer.
What are your favorite places to thrift in L.A.? Let us know in the comments below!
Opening image by @theunkempt.
