Thrifting is a great way to get unique clothing at an affordable price. Here are a few of the best places to shop for vintage apparel in the Bay Area.
Indigo Vintage Co-Op:
Located on Haight Street in San Francisco, Indigo Vintage Cooperative is a vintage lover’s dream. Racks of colorful pieces pop out the second you step inside the cozy store. Employee Johnny Gutierrez, who sported a stylish cami top, cargo pants, and accessories galore, said, “Being able to connect with your customers… It doesn’t feel like you’re shopping in a store, it feels more like an experience.”
Having worked at Indigo for a year, Gutierrez knows the in’s and out’s of the store. While there is a wide variety of vintage stores to choose from, I highly suggest visiting Indigo because of the impeccable customer service, and wide variety of clothing.
Each rack of clothing is cataloged by a different employee, reflecting their own individual aesthetic. Gutierrez said, “The way I view it, everybody has a piece for themself here.”
In a world of constantly changing fashion trends, Indigo keeps up with the latest fads. Gutierrez said, “Cami tops and cargo anything, whether a skirt, jacket, or pants. It’s very popular in the Y2K fashion scene.”
Blue Bin Vintage:
Just a short drive from M-A on Bryant Street in Downtown Palo Alto, Blue Bin Vintage is the perfect place to find unique pieces. Whether it’s comfy hoodies or a classic pair of Levi’s, Blue Bin has it all.
Senior Robbie Kuhnen, who frequently visits Blue Bin Vintage, said, “My favorite thing I’ve gotten from Blue Bin is a Harley Davidson T-shirt.”
Employee Brissna Pelcastre said, “I love how personal it is. The clothing is really custom to the people who come in here.”
The employees are more than happy to help customers find the perfect outfit. Pelcastre said, “I like to talk to customers and see what they are looking for. Then, the next time they come in, we might have something for them.”
Fillmore & 5th:
The Fillmore & 5th consignment store has been a Palo Alto staple for years. The difference between a consignment store and a thrift store is that they pay donors for the clothes they bring in.
M-A alumna and former employee Evin Holley said, “The store is unique because the clothing is catered to many different age groups and styles.”
The shop has a straightforward layout that makes it easy to find something for any occasion. Clothing is separated by item and size.
Junior Kaitlyn Harding said, “Since it’s not a huge thrift store, it takes less time to find good pieces.”
Despite its smaller size, Fillmore & 5th offers many different kinds of fabulous fashion. Holley said, “The customers love how much of a range there is in clothing. Many times, people would come in looking for something specific and walk out with what they were looking for and more.”
Goodwill Boutique:
Small but mighty, this boutique in downtown Menlo Park provides a more selective shopping experience. Compared to a larger Goodwill, GW Boutique curates specific pieces to present a one-of-a-kind selection, stocking higher-end, designer pieces in addition to everyday wear.
Freshman Vivan Depero said, “I really like their prices for clothing. Some stores are really expensive, but Goodwill is pretty fair.”
With a cozy feel and a wide variety of clothing options, customers will easily find something unique to add to their closets.
