Sale! Discount! Door busters! 30% off! We’re finally in it – that time of year when we’re told to show and compelled to do so at a reduced price. You already know this girl loves a good deal, so Black Friday leading to Cyber Monday is my shopping Super Bowl.
Over 2019, I’ve made a pretty notable shift in how I shop. Both for budgetary and aesthetic purposes, I’ve sought out more vintage and thrift shops across NYC. I just love the thrill of the find – that really cool vintage dress, designer heels at a steal, classic high-rise Levi’s – and it’s all at the local, small businesses.
While there is still value in shopping at bigger retailers (I’m eyeing Zara’s Black Friday sale…), my heart just tends to beat a little faster when I’m perusing the racks of these small shops. It all goes back to the passion of these businesses, whose owners and buyers purposely seek unique merchandise
If you’re ready to curate a unique wardrobe and support local, small businesses, shop on Small Business Saturday and beyond at a few of my favorite stores!
AuH2O
This small shop in the East Village has a permanent $5 and $10 rack, and most other items don’t go far above that price either. I spend far too long looking at their jewelry, often buying multiple rings while I’m there.
Loveday31
Get out of Manhattan and check out Loveday31 in Astoria, Queens – it’s worth the trip!
Mirth Vintage
With new merchandise drops each Friday, you can expect something new in-store and online every week. I love the general vibe of this store, focusing on neutral classics that’ll last you forever.
Awoke Vintage
I’d heard of Awoke before, but only stepped foot in the store for the first time this summer and was immediately hooked. A sick jean collection, hair accessories, and vintage drops you can shop on their Instagram Stories makes this shop a MUST. [PLUS: they’re offering 20% off vintage clothing all weekend!]
L Train Vintage
Located in Brooklyn and Manhattan, I always turn to L Train Vintage for really affordable vintage Levi’s. You can also find a ton of other great things, like affordable leather (I’m attempting to make a shift to more sustainable leather, and vintage/thrifted has been my preferred), dresses, and chunky knits.
Beacon’s Closet
I’ve been a loyal to Beacon’s Closet for several years, digging through the racks of the crowded store near Union Square or spending hours at their extra large Greenpoint location. My favorite Reformation dress was purchased there.
Housing Works
A New York staple, I love thrift shopping at Housing Works because they have a wide variety of merchandise – clothing, shoes, bags, housewares and furniture. I recently found Cristian Louboutin heels for just $45!
Dusty Rose Vintage
This place is gold in what looks like a Brooklyn warehouse. Be prepared to dig – lots of the clothing are in storage containers, but you WILL find something you love. I found an entire summer outfit – a lace crop top, sea shell earrings, and dyed skirt. Summer 2020 can’t come soon enough! If you want to shop in store be sure to check the store hours before heading there – the shop is only open select days of the week.
Not in NYC? Here’s a few places you can shop online:
Thrilling
After a hectic week of work, I just wanted to go home and rest each workday. I stumbled upon Thrilling, which has an amazing purpose – bringing local vintage shops to you online. I love that you can shop a ton of vintage shops from the comfort of your own home, and the selection is top notch. I’m eyeing a 90s chain belt and 70s floral blouse. For Black Friday, they have 20% off site wide!
Etsy
Etsy has long been the go-to for vintage and handmade goods. It’s a huge marketplace, but I keep looking to the LolaMayy shop for beautiful vintage items (they had a few of their items at Dusty Rose Vintage, which is how I found out about them.) I also recommend Thrifting Coups, where I recently purchased a vintage rendition of the super cool Mejuri croissant ring.
This Black Friday, Cyber Week and beyond, make sure to shop small. You’ll help support the local economy, small business owners, and come away with someone no one else has!