What Are the Best Places for Thrift Shopping in Seattle?
Seattle has a unique and vibrant style, and many people who dress up have bought their clothes at boutiques with rather eccentric items, combined with the latest designer pieces. There are over 150 rainy days per year in Seattle, but even while bundled up and perhaps feeling a wee bit melancholy, residents of this city have the option of visiting the numerous thrift shops. In any case, secondhand is very much alive in Seattle, so whether you are a resident of this city, or are simply in Seattle for a few days, secondhand shopping will not let you down.
First, a thrifting, and Seattle expert – hello, I’ve been thrifting for years and I know a thing or two about finding hidden gems around Seattle. Whether it’s a giant Goodwill with plenty of clothes or a small store that has a mix of old and new finds, here are the best thrift stores in Seattle. And for assistance on cleaning after a shopping adventure of thrifting, consider Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy for green cleaning solutions for the space.
Seattle Goodwill Flagship
Seattle Goodwill Flagship store located on 1400 S Lane St is perhaps the largest thrift and retail store in the region. I have been to this colossal store many times and to this date, I always find it very easy to navigate through the store that is filled with clothes, home utensils, books and even furniture. Unlike stores where there is limited stock and you’re likely to come across something good, there is a guarantee that in the showroom of the Goodwill Flagship, there is something good.
One unique feature is that the clothing is sorted by color, so if, for example, you only want to look at clothes in burgundy, you can go straight to that section. The price is slightly higher than in other locations of Goodwill, but convenience and a great quality of products demonstrate that it is worth it.
Fremont Vintage Mall
If you prefer shopping for vintage clothing stores that are more selected in a single place, you can go to the Fremont Vintage Mall (3419 Fremont Ave N). There are many small shops and stalls open underneath the ground, and virtually all of them have something related to the vintage style, such as old clothes, furniture, and many others.
The mall has an unusually funky and eclectic feel and it is quite possible that one might lost several hours just wandering around, discovering all the specialty shops. There is recycled products alongside original artifacts as well new products from skilled art stainless around the country. Because it is a revolving door there is nothing much wrong with it which makes you keep on going there more often just to check the latest.
Bon Voyage Vintage
Bon Voyage Vintage (110 S Washington St) is a charming shop located in Pioneer Square. The owners have a passion for vintage fashion from the 1950s through the 1990s, and the store is thoughtfully laid out like a boutique. In addition to clothing, Bon Voyage also carries locally made jewelry and accessories.
While the prices are a bit higher than a standard thrift store, you're paying for a highly-curated selection and a lovely shopping experience. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and always happy to help you hunt for the perfect piece.
Lucky Dog Clothing
Thrifters and fashion lovers alike have been enjoying the various shops of Seattle but not all the fixated persons are women. Another men’s clothing store that I believe are some of the best thrift stores in Seattle includes the Lucky Dog Clothing store which is located in Greenwood and the University District.
Greenwood shop is in a large light-blue building where all possible types of clothes, shoes, hats, and accessories are hanged or piled in order. For casual wear, they mostly look and feel perfectly rewarding; for second hand sportswear, they look excellent. Hvin gone through some nice seahawks clothing there over the years. The price is also cheap given every dress is new and had not been worn due to their good condition.
Pretty Parlor
Pretty Parlor (119 Summit Ave E) is a hidden gem in Capitol Hill. The shop has a great selection of vintage clothing, but its real specialty is vintage lingerie and wedding dresses. You can often find gorgeous slips, robes and nightgowns from the 1940s and 1950s.
The shop itself is an experience, with a lovely, almost boudoir-like atmosphere. It's the perfect place to hunt for a unique piece for a special occasion or just a beautiful everyday item. They also carry a selection of new clothing and accessories from local designers.
Honorable Mentions
These are just a few of my favorite thrift stores in Seattle, but there are so many great ones that it's hard to choose. Here are a few more that are worth checking out:
Lifelong Thrift Store (Capitol Hill) - Proceeds benefit Lifelong AIDS Alliance
Red Light Vintage (University District) - A huge selection but higher prices
Revival Shop (Capitol Hill) - Small but well-curated, with vintage and locally made goods
St. Vincent de Paul (multiple locations) - Benefits local charities, great for housewares and furniture
No matter your thrifting style, Seattle has a secondhand shop for you. With so many options, it's easy to get carried away, so be sure to set a budget and have an idea of what you're looking for before diving in. Happy thrifting!
