Shop Secondhand In Your Neighborhood
By Emmalee Oberg
In today's world of fast fashion and overconsumption, secondhand shops offer an accessible alternative for those looking to make environmentally and socially responsible choices. These stores give new life to pre-loved items and often support local communities and charitable causes. To help you build a more ethical wardrobe, we've highlighted some standout secondhand shops across the U.S. where many Dressember Advocates reside.
If you don't see your city listed, don't worry! Many of these stores are part of national chains, making it easier to find one near you. And for those who are new to secondhand shopping, here's a quick lesson on the differences between thrift and consignment shops and what each offers:
Thrift Stores
Items are typically donated, leading to generally lower prices.
Often operated by charitable organizations or nonprofits, with proceeds supporting specific causes.
Offer various items in varying conditions, from clothing to furniture and household goods.
Often have sales or discounts to move inventory quickly.
Consignment Stores
Items are brought in by individuals for resale, with the store taking a commission.
Operate as a for-profit business, focusing on higher quality, often brand-name or designer items.
Prices are generally higher, reflecting the quality and selection process.
Less frequent discounts as prices are set to benefit both the store and consignors.
Shop Thrift and Consignment Stores In Your City
Los Angeles, CA
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles ReStore
A nonprofit thrift store and donation center offering home improvement items at significant discounts. Sales support affordable housing initiatives for low-income, hardworking families and individuals.
Find a local Habitat for Humanity Restore near you. habitat.org/restores
A thrift boutique and consignment store in Los Angeles, California, with a wide range of styles to fit any budget. Find secondhand clothing, home goods, accessories, jewelry, vintage and more.
Photo by TROVE
Austin, TX
A consignment shop perfect for trading in your wardrobe for fashionable secondhand finds. When you shop at Buffalo Exchange, you positively impact the environment, support thousands of local charities, and keep clothing out of landfills—all while styling yourself sustainably!
Find a local Buffalo Exchange near you.
A consignment shop that offers upscale fashion for men and women at significant discounts. Uptown Cheapskate offers a tax-deductible donation option for items they don't buy and supports incredible charities. Their environmentally friendly business model keeps millions of pounds of textiles out of landfills annually.
Photo by Austin Chronicle
Seattle, WA
A family-owned, fashionable, and affordable women's consignment shop located in the Phinney Ridge since 1988. Labels is very conscious of the fashion industry's devastating impact on climate change and believes in reducing waste and recycling everything—including wardrobes! In partnership with the nonprofit Aurora Commons, donate many unsold items still in wearable condition to folks in need.
A West Seattle landmark consignment store offering secondhand clothing and accessories for men and women. Formally known as Funky Janes Consignment, they curate gently loved items from basics to one-of-a-kind pieces ranging from vintage to new, never-worn items. For over 30 years, they have committed to West Seattle, the people who thrive within it, and making a positive impact on the planet, one garment at a time.
Denver, CO
Since 1968, arc Thrift Stores has been one of Colorado's largest employers of people with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and many other intellectual and developmental disabilities. Thanks to the fantastic donations they receive, they have a wide selection of thrifted items at great prices!
An eclectic, vibrant, woman-owned consignment boutique run by a community of eco-conscious fashion lovers who are mindful of our planet's future and the effects of overconsumption. Discover your favorite brands, unique vintage, and affordable designer secondhand pieces all in one place, ready for a second home.
Photo by Secondlove
Chicago, IL
McShane's Exchange Consignment
A consignment shop that introduces new inventory daily from cosigners in the Chigaco area. McShane's Exchange is committed to slow fashion and environmental friendliness and offers a range of pieces from high-end designers to affordable everyday wear.
Unique Brickton is a Savers store committed to making secondhand second nature. They've grown from a single shop to a global reuse champion, focusing on reusing, repurposing, and up-cycling to help save the planet.
Whether you're in Los Angeles or Chicago, Austin or Seattle, shopping at these local secondhand shops not only helps the environment but also supports your community. Remember to look for a Habitat for Humanity Restore, Buffalo Exchange, Uptown Cheapskate, and Savers near you! Embrace sustainable fashion and explore the treasures waiting to be discovered in your neighborhood consignment store.
About the Author
Emmalee Oberg is a second-year advocate for Dressember because she believes in the inherent dignity of all people. She is a Dressember Communications Contractor and a student at the University of Northwestern, St. Paul where she studies Graphic Design and Marketing. In her free time, you can often find Emmalee working on her photography business, grabbing coffee with friends, dancing in musicals at her school, and enjoying summer weather. You can find her at @emmaleeoberg & @emmaleeobergphotography on Instagram.