US Trip Vintage Haul & Thrift Shopping Tips
I recently went on the trip of a lifetime with my good pal Jess where we explored LA, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree and Portland. We’d both been here previously together for stints with work but this time decided to return and get some creative inspiration and have a bit of fun!
We knew the vintage shopping was out of control from our previous trips so scoping out the thrift shop and market scene was top of the list for us when visiting each area.
Below I’ve collated an overview of the gems I found, along with some tips on how to consciously second hand shop and find pieces that suit your style and will last for years to come along with our hotspots if you visit these areas. Enjoy!
SEE VINTAGE FINDS IN BELOW VIDEO
Thrift Shopping Tips
01
MAKE SURE THE FABRIC AESTHETICALLY FITS YOUR STYLE
When thrifting/second market shopping the easiest thing to do is make sure when you’re sifting through the racks/piles that you’re in love with the colours, patterns, etc of the fabric and that it suits your existing wardrobe style.
02
CAN IT BE RE-PURPOSED?
Once you’ve been drawn in by the fabric and you’re now holding up the garment can you think of any ways to repurpose the garment so it better suits you style? Considering this means that if it doesn’t fit you, you at least have a fall back.
03
DOES IT MATCH YOUR LIFESTYLE AND ANY PIECES YOU ALREADY HAVE?
Asking yourself this question will help determine whether the piece will last you for years to come. Consider the fabric weight and if it suits where you live (breathable for more hot locations and warmer for more cooler places, or even able to adapt seasonally), if this garment will pair well with exisiting accessories or other items of clothing so you know you’ll actually wear it practically fit into your existing style
04
DO YOU ACTUALLY NEED OR LOVE THIS?
It’s so easy to get caught up in the excitement and the feeling of FOMO when shopping but remember to just slow down and think about all the practical aspects of how this piece will integrate into your life. Wouldn’t you rather have a wardrobe full of go-to pieces that you LOVE than things that just take up unnecessary space.
Places we second hand shopped in LA (and surroundings) and Portland.
LA/Cali
Melrose Trading Post - On Melrose and Fairfax every Sunday
Rose Bowl Flea Market - Held monthly on every second Sunday
Wasteland - Store on Melrose (a handful of others around here too)
Revolve Vintage - Pop up store on Melrose
Various Thrift Shops - Whenever you're visiting a new area just google the local thrift shops and see if you find any gems
The End - Yucca Valley
Portland
House of Vintage - SE Hawthorne Blvd (plus a handful of other spots in surrounding blocks)
Rebels & Heroes - SW 10th Ave
Buffalo Exchange - W Burnside St