Here is a list of wonderful shops around the world who champion and sell vintage items. “Why is a site about Retro Closet Vintage advertising other shops?”, you might ask. Good question. The thinking is simple: If there were limits or scarcity in this space, other shops could be considered competition, but we live in a world where scarcity is mostly an illusion. That is – there are plenty of vintage goods, and shoppers who want them – to go around! So, these are some RCV’s favorite collaborators around the world! You should know about them!
Europe
Nytjamarkaður ABC barnahjálpar á Laugavegi ($$)
This is a brick-and-mortar retail store with instagram presence. They have two locations in Iceland, with an anchor store in the capital of Reykjavik. Specializing in pop culture, high end, streetwear, and household items, they have a great multi-level layout. Proceeds go to support vulnerable children. Also, this store was so much fun just to walk around in. There were colorful items presented in such unique ways, everywhere you look.
Thrifted. ($$-$$$)
Thrifted. is mostly hosted online with multiple retail popups. Proudly located in the United Kingdom, this store specializes in streetwear and pop culture clothing. Granted, this store keeps its items at moderate to higher priced, but shipping is a consideration as well. They also tend to track trends more tightly than other shops of this size.
Canada
Lost Boys Vintage ($$$$)
LBV has presence online (web and multiple platforms) and retail spaces. They are anchored in Toronto, Canada, and specialize in streetwear and niche pop culture. This shop is featured because they seem like the dream for most thrifters and resellers. They say it themselves in their “About Us” that they:
“…started from the back of a car with a personal T-shirt collection. Since opening our doors in Toronto’s historic Kensington Market in 2019, we’ve paved the way for a new era of vintage shopping.”
USA
The Exchange ($$)
The Exchange specializes in quality clothing and household items, including furniture. This retail shop in Central, SC (USA)has a small Facebook presence, but no formal online sales. Proceeds go to support community needs. And, it provides multiple additional community services including giving away seasonal vegetables grown on site.
Lakeview Area Helping Hands ($)
Helping Hands is a thrift store in Stoneboro, PA, that sells everyday clothes, seasonal items, and also has a section for household goods. The store’s earnings help support community members in need. Additionally, thanks to local gardeners and bakers, shoppers often receive seasonal vegetables and bread when they leave.
Salvation Army Thrift Stores ($)
Salvation Army has a retail shop in almost every town. Specializing in almost anything, and not quite as picky about throwing away older items. You can find some real gold in these stores! Proceeds support global ministry and compassionate care.
Retro Closet Vintage ($-$$)
Many items from the above featured shops have sold or are now available in the RCV shop! This showcases how collaboration can work in this space. That is to say, when we donate, use, resell, and curate vintage items, everybody wins!
Vintage Shops Map
Do you know of other great shops? Comment below with the name and location! Share the wealth!
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