13 Dec Thrifting in San Francisco

Written By: Mariola Menéndez

San Francisco, a city known for its unique culture and diverse neighborhoods, offers a treasure trove of thrifting opportunities. From community thrift stores to vintage boutiques, you can discover second-hand gems that not only save you money but also provide a sustainable shopping experience. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a newbie, here’s a little guide to thrift shopping in San Francisco.

Community Thrift Store on Valencia Street

One of the gems of thrift shopping in San Francisco is the community thrift store on Valencia Street (the one of the photo). This store is a mecca for thrifting enthusiasts and is an excellent place to begin your thrifting journey. What makes it stand out is the wide variety of items it offers. While clothing is a significant part of their inventory, you can also find second-hand decoration items, furniture, home appliances, books, and much more. This eclectic mix means you might stumble upon unexpected treasures every time you visit. About the clothing, despite common brands being the trend of the store, I was lucky finding a pair of channel heels. What I mean is that if you take your time, unique high-fashion pieces can be part of your wardrobe. The best part is that your purchases often support local charities and nonprofits, making your thrift shopping experience even more rewarding.

Haight Street Vintage

If you’re a fan of all things vintage, Haight Street is your paradise. Among the plethora of bohemian stores, “Love on Haight” is a standout. The store not only boasts an impressive collection of designer hand-made clothing but also surprises visitors with its psychedelic decor and iconic photographs of figures from the hippie movement, such as Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix. It’s a slice of San Francisco’s countercultural history right in the heart of Haight Street.

For those looking for high-quality, curated vintage pieces, 2nd STREET Haight St is the place to be. They specialize in offering a selection of vintage archive pieces that you won’t find just anywhere. From timeless classics to more current style, one-of-a-kind items, this store caters whoever is passionate about fashion. If you are looking for a new pair of Nike, Yeezy or even Jordan sneakers this is your place. You’ll find both rare gems and more budget-friendly thrift finds at the back of the sore.

So-So Supermarket is a haven for fans of Y2K fashion. If you’re into the aesthetics of the early 2000s, you’ll find a huge selection of Y2K pieces here. This store is perfect for those looking to add a nostalgic touch to their wardrobes. It’s the ideal spot for finding mini-skirts, lingerie dresses, baby-tees, and jewelry that capture the essence of the early 2000s.

Thrift shopping can also be a fashionable experience, and Wasteland beautifully blends second-hand fashion with high-fashion brands, which add a touch of luxury to the mix. It is a great place for those who appreciate both vintage and contemporary styles. Their in-house brand offers an equally cool alternative. I also must mention that the industrial style of the large warehouse that houses the clothes, along with the beautiful classic-style chandeliers creates an indistinct atmosphere.

For those who seek fashion from a bygone era, Decades of Fashion is a must-visit. Owned by Cicely Hansen, this vintage boutique specializes in very old pieces that provide a glimpse into the history of fashion. Whether you’re looking for 1920s flapper dresses or 1950s pin-up couture, this store is a time capsule of fashion through the ages. A thing that caught my attention was the exposition of vintage make up and newspaper articles related to this fashion style they show us around the store.

Although not a typical thrift clothing store, Bound Together Bookstore is a remarkable place since it is named as “anarchist library”. It offers a unique collection of titles by authors such us Mijail Bakunin, George Orwell, Emma Goldman, etc., so you can spend a relaxing afternoon browsing through their selection. With a mission rooted in activism, the store not only provides great reads but also supports important social causes.

To sum up I would like to give you some tips for a successful thrifting in San Francisco.

1. Plan Ahead: Research the thrift stores you want to visit and make a plan. San Francisco has a wide range of thrift shops, so knowing where to start can save you time.
2. Visit on Weekdays: Thrift stores tend to be less crowded on weekdays, giving you more time to explore and find hidden gems.
3. Inspect Items Thoroughly: When thrift shopping, closely examine items for any damage or wear. Check zippers, seams, and buttons to ensure they’re in good condition. Moreover, as there are usually a huge catalogue, you need to take your time to find your wanted items.
4. Be Open-Minded: Thrifting is all about surprises. Keep an open mind, and don’t limit yourself to specific styles or eras. You might find something unexpected that becomes a cherished addition to your wardrobe.
5. Bring Cash: While many thrift stores accept cards, some smaller shops may prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to carry both.
6. Don’t Forget Accessories: Thrift stores often have a wide selection of accessories, from caps to scarves. These items can add a unique touch to your outfits.