Best Thrift Shops in Cape Town
For years now, conscious consumption and cyclical living has been on the rise - and for good reason. Our beautiful city is a testament to the wonders of the world and well worth preserving. Thrift and vintage shopping is just one way you can reduce your carbon footprint and with Cape Town being a thrift shop haven, it’s easy and fun. As a bonus - who doesn’t love finding that special, one-of-a-kind preloved treasure?
Most stores can be found in Observatory main street, but there are some gems to be found in town.
BARLEYS BLOSET
This absolutely adorable thrift store in Observatory is a new kid on the block. With incredible taste in thrift finds and the store organized by color, the friendly staff is not the only thing that will have you keep coming back.
BANGBANG VINTAGE MARKET
The go-to place to find your next crazy festival outfit. Whether you are looking for lumo, preppy, leather, quirky, vintage or bazaar - they have it all. As well as an impressive range of sunglasses, steampunk clothing and Doc Martens.
THE SLOW FASHION COLLECTIVE
An incredible collective started by thrift brands Mulberry & Pulse, Thrift Uplift, Style Bargains and New Wings. They have curated a space where multiple online thrift brands rent rails on a monthly basis. The store has all the preloved options, in all the styles, from all the era’s. Truly a one-stop thrift shop. Keep an eye on their socials for their next thrift market, hosted in the store's courtyard.
BETTER HALF THE STORE
Better Half is an OG preloved fashion heaven with all the style and grace. You can find a mix of high fashion and commercial brands like Gucci, Levi, Armani, Adidas, Asos, New Balance and Hugo Boss - to name a few. They also stock a beautiful range of household items and fashionable shoes along with vintage favorites like suits and leather jackets. A thrifty fashionista's delight.
NEVERNEW
The absolute treasure trove of patterned shirts, summer dresses and long hippie skirts. You’ll find this Cape Town gem just next door to the iconic Vroom Vroom, where you can browse their impressive range of records. If you're in the market for chunky silver jewelry, band patches, belts and bags, and fur coats - this spot has you covered.
PEREIRA VINTAGE
A collector’s dream. This shop will take you back to childhood memories of playing dress up in dreamy vintage threads. Sourced both locally and abroad, their pieces can range from an authentic vintage find to more gently worn second hand apparel. The owner’s love for quality and the finer details make each silhouette truly one of a kind.
Location
AFRAID OF MICE
A truly special vintage store that specializes in high fashion brands located in Harrington Street. You can expect to find Gucci, Armani, D&G, Hugo Boss, Louis Vuttion and Prada - to name a few. They have a smaller boutique collection that is well worth a browse.
KAAP DIEM
Bold patterns, shapes and colors are the name of the game at Kaap Diem. You’ll be able to find the usual thrift store suspects - patterned shirts, vintage dresses, old-school blazers, retro jackets, classic tees and jeans - but if you’re looking to dress with all the colors of the rainbow then this is your spot. They also offer an exchange discount where you can bring in your pre-loved treasures and they’ll give you cash or credit.
RETRO CLUB & CO
This little Muizenberg gem has managed to curate your dream 60s and 70s wardrobe. For now you can only find them online, but they often have a pop rail at markets around town. Corduroy, flowy surfer dresses, bell bottoms and big jackets - their unique vintage style and creating their own small batch clothing makes supporting local businesses easy.
COATS FOR AFRICA
The absolute best hidden gem in Cape Town for any festival goer. You’ll find rows upon rows of fur coats, leather and waterproof jackets at the most unbelievable prices!
