A new word I discovered after moving to New York was ‘thrifting’. I can’t really think if in London we have a similar (maybe bargain hunting?!) but thrifting is the most wonderful word and one of my very favorite hobbies. But it can be a minefield of disappointment. Which shops are full of junk and where are the hidden treasures? How come everyone on Instagram seems to find UNBELIEVABLY amazing finds and I’d be lucky to find a pot without a crack or chip? I offer some advice here on thrifting in New York City and some of my favorite haunts. 

Housing Works

A large chain and dotted all over New York some are definitely better than others – mainly based on which have bigger home sections. I often go to the one on East 23rd Street. They have a really varied home section and I have found gems hidden among the trash on many occasions. I will say though that in recent months the ‘curating’ has really taken a nose dive – so don’t hate me if you make the trip and find nothing – it’s pretty hit and miss!

Vintage Thrift

Possibly my favorite shop in New York. Located on 2nd Avenue between 22nd and 23rd this place really is FULL of gems. It is beautifully curated (unlike Housing Works – sorry Housing Works) and although the prices are a little higher, you really do find beautiful items here. I don’t think I have ever been in and NOT bought something. In need of vintage glasses for your bar cart? This is the place. They have one of a kind furniture pieces, frames, art, pots and pans. They also have a pretty great clothing section! It really is a magical place – I wonder if I should even be telling you all about it?

Salvation Army

A lot of the people I follow that live in Southern States seem to find incredible items here. I wouldn’t say in New York I have been so lucky, but I always think it’s worth popping in JUST in case. You’re unlikely to find real gems, but I have found a couple of sad looking West Elm vases that I have up-cycled.

Out of the Closet, Brooklyn

I will admit, I have actually only been here the once – but had one of the most successful hunts of my thrifting career. It started dismally. I wandered round the rather shabby disorganized room and the only thing I found was an old Ikea pot for $2. I didn’t even like it,  but I’d come all the way from Manhattan and couldn’t bare to go home empty handed. I left to go home and as I tried to get my bearings to head back to the subway saw a sign pointing downstairs to the furniture section! How had I missed it!!!! I re-entered the shop full of renewed hope that this wouldn’t be a wasted trip after all and boyyyyy was I right. An entire floor of furniture, all priced under $20! Things were very dusty and in need of some love but if you have the time and patience to restore items it’s so worth it. I found a vintage wooden mirror for $10, a magazine rack for $4.50 a lamp for $2….and a nightstand for $5 that I up-cycled into a thing of beauty.