HOW TO SHOP VINTAGE LIKE A PRO: MEL’S MELBOURNE THRIFT GUIDE
WORDS BY NFC STUDENT, MEL YILMAZ
Trips to the thrift shops were a core memory growing up, being affordable and sustainable. As a fashion forward individual, thrifting allows me to go beyond my creativity whilst sticking to a specific budget. I love to style different outfit combinations, experiment with different patterns and colour combinations. I get complimented a lot on my outfits, and most of the time the pieces I'm wearing have been thrifted. As an experienced thrifter I have good knowledge of the best ways to thrift and where the best places are to thrift in Melbourne.
The most common question I get asked is where do you thrift? Good question!
I will talk about a couple stores specifically but here is a list of good thrift stores around Melbourne: Salvation Army, Vinnies, Savers, Swop, Fashion Thrift Society, Get Wasted, Market 755, Retro Star Vintage, Stupid Vintage, Trasho Mondo and Buzzkill Vintage.
For days that you can’t go out to explore there is also: Depop, Facebook Marketplace and eBay, Visuel Studios and Jamdrobe
The best way to thrift to enhance your experience is to:
1. Dedicate a specific day to go so you enjoy your time thrifting.
2. Bring a pair of headphones with you.
3. We all want to look fashionable when going out, but for thrifting sometimes the good fits need to be compromised. (WEAR SOMETHING COMFY). – This is because it is easier to try on something especially if there are no fitting rooms available.
4. Go through EVERY. SINGLE. ITEM. – This is my favourite method for finding the best and unique pieces.
5. Have fun trying on things and jam out to your fave tunes!
TIP: On the topic of sustainability, choose pieces that will be put to good use, rather than buying something now and not liking it a week later.
The places I recommend the best to thrift are:
Salvation Army - One of the most common thrift stores in Melbourne. Even though it’s a very popular store chain, you can still find hidden gems and your favourite pieces. As an example, I’ve thrifted a $500 We11done shirt at a local Salvo’s. As well as a good clothing selection, they often have really nice vintage jewellery too.
RestroStar Vintage - Located on Swanston Street and with a warehouse in Brunswick, Retrostar is such a good place to find “retro” pieces. Everything at the warehouse is so affordable, with retro styled clothing like sports jerseys and vintage rain jackets on offer. They also have different quirky pieces, like gothic velvet clothing and a wide range colourful patterned skirts for lovers of maximalism.
Fashion Thrift Society - Whilst not specific to Melbourne, this one is on the list because it’s such a good market to thrift the best pieces, they offer everything you need! All the different fashion styles, vintage luxury, jewellery, accessories, bags, clothing, and yummy food too. And since it's a market, you can bargain with sellers if you think something is unreasonably priced. Since it is a traveling fashion market, it’s good to save dates for the next time they visit Melbourne. You can buy tickets for it on Moshtix (not sponsored - just letting you know!)
Depop - I know it’s not only limited too Melbourne (and also isn’t even a physical store) but Depop is definitely a high recommendation! I have found my now favourite skirt on it — Like I wear this skirt ALL THE TIME. Similarly, Fashion Thrift Society and Facebook Marketplace, you’re able to bargain for prices. It's a nice app to find great pieces, and cures online shopping cravings at a cheaper cost!
TIP: If you thrift at a Salvation Army or Savers in a suburb with lot’s of designer or premium stores, you’re more likely to find luxury pieces.
In the end you can thrift however you are comfortable with! I’m just giving advice from my own experience thrifting at different locations, and have shared a variety of stores around Melbourne you can go and visit. You never know, you might find your next favourite piece and you can thank me!