Thrifting in Boston is a treasure hunt that can yield great finds of designer clothing, pre-loved furniture, and unique vintage items. Some of these shops count as Boston’s best-kept secrets where prices are fabulously low, and you get the satisfaction of knowing that profits benefit good causes. Thrift shoppers are also doing the earth a favor by upcycling items that would otherwise end up in the landfill. When in Boston, map out the following thrift stores to create your own treasure map.
BOOMERANGS (VARIOUS LOCATIONS)
These stores are far from your nana’s thrift shop. Well-lit with displays inspired by fashionable retail outlets, the selections appeal to a diverse demographic. Whether you’re after floral palazzos for a themed event, an alternative for your well-worn little black dress, or statement jewelry pieces for a special outfit, check out a Boomerangs store. We especially like the Jamaica Plains location.
BUFFALO EXCHANGE ON HARVARD AVENUE
Trendy apparel might as well be the tagline for Buffalo Exchange. The displays are showroom quality, and the men’s and women’s clothing have been carefully selected because this shop is a cross between thrift and consignment. You have the option of swapping your own stuff for 30% cash or exchanging your items for merchandise at 50% of value.
GOODWILL STORES (VARIOUS LOCATIONS)
Goodwill upgraded all its stores to create customer-friendly showrooms of consistent quality. The West Campus location on Commonwealth Avenue is easy to browse as merchandise has been arranged by color so you can zero in on your preferred hues. Many items are never-used donations from businesses, and the store offers a tag discount that may change daily.
URBAN RENEWALS ON BRIGHTON AVENUE
Quantity is the name of the game at the Urban Renewals store. The showroom looks more like a warehouse store than a shiny retail shop. Make sure to budget enough time to browse endless racks of men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing and occasional oddities such as jewelry, books, and knick-knacks.
VIVANT VANTAGE ON LINCOLN ST.
This thrift store doubles as a showcase of valuable vintage items. Rocker and boho-style clothing rule the racks with gauzy shifts displayed beside leather jackets with old cameras and antique typewriters completing the retro display. The inventory is wildly varied like that of general stores in the old days.
Don’t pass up the chance to spend an hour or two in Boston thrift stores. You may just find deeply discounted luxury brands, everyday apparel at giveaway prices, or real treasures for pennies on the dollar.
