If you’re looking to join in on the mother city’s thrift culture but aren’t sure where to start on your retro-fashion journey, Cape Town has a vast menu of wonderful little thrifty gems scattered across the city.
Thrifting is a great way to save a few bucks, find some hidden gems and, of course, practice sustainable fashion.
Especially with spring on our doorstep, there are few thrills as exciting as finding epic jeans, a funky blouse or a perfect vintage-style dress for prices that’ll make your wallet shout ‘hooray’.
Here are 5 of the niftiest thrift spots to dress up your wardrobe:
Afraid of Mice
Afraid of Mice, the beloved Long Street stop is notorious for haute couture and name brands – thrift edition.
While the store has recently made the decision to move to 99 Harrington Street, AOM’s Long Street Era has an incredible sale going until 2nd July. Out with the old and in with the new…old. We can’t wait to explore this thrifting gem’s new experience, but for now, we can’t say no to a sale.
- Location: 99 Harrington Street, District Six
Nevernew Store
If it’s a funky jersey or jumper from the 80s and 90s you’re after, or a pair of Doc Martens perfect for winter, then it’s time to make a trip to Nevernew.
Nevernew is a Cape Town hotpot because of the diversity in clothing treasures, colour, vibrance and ranges. Looking for flared pants? They’ve got you. They also have a 60s wallpaper-style print to boast.
- Location: 15b Lower Main Road, Observatory
Grand Funk Retro Vintage
If your fashion sense requires pieces that stand out, then Grand Funk Retro Vintage has fabulous options from clothing to accessories. Patterns know no limit, with stock constantly changing.
If you know where to look, you’ll find your next favourite accessories and every kind of clothing item from vests to leather and button-up wonders.
Grand Funk is also an ideal pick for festival options, but for the firey fashionista, a festival piece could work any day of the week. You can also bet on some funky live music to get you grooving into the past.
- Location: 26 Lower Main, Observatory
Bangbang Vintage Market
If you haven’t been to Bang Bang Vintage Market, you definitely haven’t truly thrifted in Cape Town. Alternative, edgy and reminiscent of the Steampunk Era –Bang Bang is for the bold fashion lover.
If it’s sky-high boots or a faux fur coat and the most enchanting accessories you’re looking for, look no further. Bang Bang is like a wonderland of the most creative pieces, and if you come home with just one thing, you’re the exception.
- Location: 65 Lower Main Road, Observatory
Retrostash
If it’s a streetwear alley you’re looking to venture towards, Retrostash will come as music to your ears.
Athleisure and vintage renditions of brands like Nike are a snippet of some of the options you can explore. However, there’s a whole assortment of other curiosities from accessories divine to jacket lovers’ dreams.
Don’t forget to take a snap of your ‘new’ picks by the iconic Retro Baby mirror.
- Location: 45 Kloof St, Gardens
Compiled by: Tauhira Ajam
First published by Cape Town etc
Also see: 5 Secret hiking trails in Cape Town you need to try
