How to thrift like a Joburg fashionista
Delete your Shein cart, and head to your local thrift store for affordable fashion worthy of Miranda Priestly's approval.
The rising cost of living has led many people to cut back on their clothing budgets.
Have you tried thrift shopping? Thrifting is a great way to switch up your wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Here's a look at some of the best thrift stores in Johannesburg.
What is thrift shopping?
Thrift shopping has been around for years, but has been gaining popularity due to concerns about fast fashion. Not only is it a sustainable way to shop, but it is also much more affordable than store-bought clothing.
Instead of forking out hundreds or thousands on new clothing, thrifters are opting to browse the clothing racks of vintage and secondhand stores, charity shops and garage sales.According to recent reports in America, 16-18% of people shop at thrift stores, while 93% shop online for previously used items, generating billions in revenue for the secondhand market.
Thrift like a Joburg fashionista
Many people often look down on thrifting as something "poor people" do, but influencers and celebrities are among those rummaging through clothes.
Why? Vintage enthusiasts have found designer clothes, leather bags, and fur coats. Others have found designer jewellery and rare video games. One person found a $3 bowl that turned out to be an ancient artefact worth $2 million. You never know what you will find at your local charity store!
Celebrities who have admitted to thrift shopping include Travis Scott, SZA, Drew Barrymore, Helen Mirren and Zooey Deschanel.
Research has also found that second-hand shoppers are likely to be more style-conscious because they are strategic about their buys. They also focus on fabric quality and timeless pieces that are stylish and look expensive.
Some thrift stores aren’t necessarily cheap, but cost much less than what you would pay in-store. Vintage and curated stores are usually more expensive than thrift stores and charity shops.
Here are some of the best places to thrift shop in Johannesburg:
Wizards Vintage
Wizards Vintage recently moved to Manor House, but it remains one of the top stores for Joburg fashionistas seeking vintage pieces at bargain prices. The store focuses on “carefully curated pieces, hidden gems, and timeless style”.
From second-hand Zara clothing to pre-loved Chanel, you are likely to find some of the best fashion at Wizards Vintage. Prices range from R350 to R3, 000 plus.
Some items are on the pricey side because they are secondhand designer items, but they are still worth it given their original prices.
Location: 32 Bompas Rd, Dunkeld, Johannesburg.
Monday to Saturday: 10am - 4pm
Second Chance Clothing
You can literally find thousands of items at Second Chance Clothing. Looking for a work blazer for R80? Second Chance Clothing has it.
“We replenish our stock 6 days a week, so our stores are packed with thousands of ‘one-of-a-kind’ pieces waiting for you. Ready to find your next favourite treasure?”
Locations: Honeydew, Centurion and Vanderbijlpark
Conrad Collective
This thrift store is more for the younger crowd who love to have fun with fashion. Suede skirts, Y2K style, festival pieces, and club-ready looks are some of the hot items you will find.
Location: 94A Conrad Drive, Blairgowrie
Joburg Thrift Markets
Markets are also good places to find amazing clothing pieces. There are a lot more vendors to choose from, and they each have their own style and vibe. Because they’re trying to grab your attention quickly, market vendors typically style their clothes to make for easier shopping. Less digging, more cool looks at your fingertips.
Picnic and Thrift
- Y2K vibes
- Summer clothing vibes
- Festival clothing vibes
- Too cool for school vibes
Rosebank Sunday Market
- Pre-loved fashion treasures
- Vintage gems & unique pieces
- Everyday staples & standout styles
- Sustainable fashion at budget-friendly prices
Bonus Stores
- Junkie Charity Store
- Huntress Luxury Fashion
- Thrift & Plants
- Saint’s Charity Shop
- Hypethriftcloset
- Rags and Lace
Pretoria and Centurion:
- Snuffles (Pretoria)
- Second Chance Clothing (Centurion)
- Ons Winkel Charity Store (Pretoria & Centurion)
- The Vintage Square Thrift Fair (Pretoria)
- Daddy’s Cool (Centurion)
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