Get in the car loser, we’re going Thrift shopping! If you hopped off the plane at LAX, with a dream and a cardigan then you’re in luck. In the city of stars, you’re bound to find thrifted treasures so you better make extra room in your wardrobe. Here’s your gay guide to finding the most fabulous secondhand clothing, decor and so much more in Tinseltown…
1. Crossroads Trading
Do we have the tea for you! Some notable “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Queens shop here. Season 15 winner and Los Angeles resident Sasha Colby declared this place worthy of a queen. Rumor has it, even Mama Ru has come through.
If that hasn’t convinced you, Crossroads’ curated selection makes it easy to find something good especially if you’re a thrifting newbie. You’ll find name brands at affordable prices. Find an outfit before hitting WeHo bars or dropping by a drag show at Hamburger Mary’s across the street.
2. Out Of The Closet
Looking for an outfit, need new home decor, or want to do your routine testing? Then gurl do we have the place for you. This national thrift Store chain lives up to its tongue and chic name by serving as an LGBTQ+ community resource. Not only can you find a fabulous outfit but when you shop here your purchases help support the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s mission. It makes looking good and giving back easy!
3. It’s A Wrap
If you want to feel like a star, you can scoop up the wardrobe from your favorite TV and film productions here. As you’re shopping around you’ll recognize the Toros cheerleading uniform from Bring It On, Pamela Anderson’s iconic Baywatch swimsuit, and the legendary Scream costume.
You’ll also find everyday basics like classic tank tops and more adventurous items like harnesses and jockstraps. Located in the heart of the media district with Disney studios down the street and Warner Bros. Discovery nearby, this shop is one you won’t want to miss.
4. Playclothes
This store has dressed A-listers like Taylor Swift, Julia Roberts and George Clooney. And when you step inside be prepared to take a trip back in time. Immediately you’ll feel transported when looking up at the ornate ceiling mural and the eye-catching window displays. For Vintage fanatics and retro enthusiasts, pick any era and you’ll find it here.
Thrift Tip: for a day of shop till you death drop. Magnolia Blvd offers numerous thrift and vintage shops, free street parking, and of course the beloved Porto’s Bakery for a quick recharge before hitting the shops.
5. Cherry Pick Vintage
Fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn and greats like Elvis graced the silver screen creating unforgettable moments. This store pays homage to the history of Old Hollywood glamor by carefully curating a timeless style. Behind the scenes, this is a woman-owned business so look no further if you’re looking to support a local female entrepreneur.
Nestled in Los Feliz, you might not find this special store if you blink. Nearby vintage stores like Squaresville and Replay Vintage are worth stopping by along N Vermont Street and Goodwill SoCal Los Feliz is nearby too.
6. Jetrag
Straddling the border of Hollywood and WeHo, this iconic Los Angeles thrift store offers a wide array of vintage items.
LA’s fiercest fashionists should pop in for their $1 Sundays when they fill their parking lot with piles of unsorted items. Each article of clothing costs only a dollar, you just need to get on your hands and knees and burrow through the tacky schlock to find the diamonds in the rough. But when you unearth that perfect pair of mod capris or hip-hugging pencil skirt, all the toil, and skinned knees, are worth it.
7. Society of St. Vincent de Paul
As they say, size matters so this list would not be complete without the biggest thrift store in LA. Located in Lincoln Heights – this place has a selection beyond clothing with a massive collection of furniture. Hollywood set decorators will frequently source from this notable location and even donate items back so you might see something you recognize. Be prepared to get a little lost and find some great things here!
8. The Council Shop
No thrift trip would be complete without stopping by Melrose and Fairfax. Captivating window displays capture the imagination with a mix of street style, up-and-coming designer boutiques, and of course secondhand gems. You might recognize Council Thrift from its six locations throughout LA with its Fairfax store offering a large selection of clothing, accessories, and furniture at an affordable price for a good cause. The Council Shop is run by The National Council of Jewish Women who are committed to helping local women.
9. Iguana Vintage
Experience nostalgia by stepping into the wonderful world of Iguana Vintage. This is your oasis for finding quality vintage at an affordable price. There are three locations (Hollywood, North Hollywood, and Sherman Oaks) with each store having a massive and highly organized selection. From rainbow shorts to eye-catching 70s shirts, you’re bound to find a thing or two.
10. Hidden Treasures Vintage
If you don’t want to be caught wearing the same Pride gear as anyone else, then this is a must-see store. For festivals, raves and special events like Burning Man, Hidden Treasures Vintage lives up to its name. When you arrive, you can’t miss the colorful exterior that feels like you’re entering Woodstock.
The eccentric store has numerous rooms to explore for finding both fun festival gear and jaw-dropping vintage. These finds will surely help you stand out from the crowd. Also, across the street is a cluster of artsy shops that are worth paying a visit.
