15 Best Vintage Clothing Stores in New York City

• L Train Vintage: Affordable 90s styles across multiple locations.

• Desert Vintage: High-end archival fashion from the 1900s to 1980s.

• Metropolis Vintage: Rare band tees and collectible items.

• Cure Thrift Shop: Affordable finds supporting diabetes research.

• 2nd Street: Japanese-curated designer and streetwear.

• Chickee's Vintage: Designer treasures like Chanel and Prada.

• 10ft Single by Stella Dallas: Eclectic mix of denim and retro styles.

• Mr. Throwback: 80s and 90s sportswear and memorabilia.

• Rogue: Y2K trends and nostalgic 2000s fashion.

• Amarcord Vintage: Premium European designer pieces.

• Monk Vintage: Budget-friendly with eco-conscious initiatives.

• Procell: 90s streetwear and archival designer gems.

• Proprietors: Curated vintage across eras and home décor.

• Tokyo Joe: Affordable high-end vintage from Gucci to Levi’s.

• James Veloria: Rare, luxury designer pieces from 60s to 90s.

Quick Comparison

NYC's vintage scene blends history, style, and eco-conscious fashion. Whether you're a collector or just looking for unique wardrobe staples, these stores offer timeless treasures for every taste and budget.

Guide To New York City's Best Vintage Stores

Selection Criteria

We chose stores based on four key factors: quality, variety, eco-consciousness, and convenience. These reflect what vintage shoppers care about most - finding unique, well-preserved items in an accessible and responsible way.

Quality and Authenticity

The backbone of our evaluation was the quality of the merchandise. We looked for stores that maintain high standards, offering items that are both well-preserved and genuine. For example, Amarcord Vintage stands out with its carefully selected high-end designer pieces [5].

Variety and Specialization

Every store offers something different, creating a unique shopping experience. Whether it’s Mr. Throwback with its vintage sportswear or 10ft Single by Stella Dallas with collections spanning multiple decades, there’s something for everyone [3]. This mix ensures shoppers can find anything from rare designer treasures to budget-friendly everyday pieces.

Eco-Conscious Practices

We gave preference to stores that emphasize sustainable practices. A great example is Cure Thrift Shop, which focuses on reducing waste and promoting second-hand shopping [3].

Location and Convenience

Accessibility matters. We prioritized stores located in well-connected neighborhoods. For instance, L Train Vintage has multiple locations, making it easy for shoppers across NYC to visit [4][1].

These criteria ensure that each store on our list not only offers standout vintage finds but also aligns with the values of today’s shoppers.

1. L Train Vintage

L Train Vintage has two standout locations: the East Village flagship, known for its 90s t-shirts and flannels spread across two floors, and the Crown Heights store, which focuses on denim, jackets, and dresses [4][2]. You’ll find the East Village spot at 202 1st Ave and the Crown Heights location at 616 Classon Ave [4][1].

Both stores are open daily with extended evening hours, making it easy to fit a visit into your schedule. Their inventory is sourced from estate sales and auctions, with each piece carefully inspected for quality.

If you're looking for affordable vintage finds with plenty of variety, L Train Vintage is a great pick. For a quieter shopping experience, try visiting on a weekday afternoon, and be sure to explore both levels of the East Village location [4].

Prefer a more upscale and curated selection? Check out Desert Vintage for a completely different vibe.

2. Desert Vintage

Desert Vintage, nestled at 34 Orchard Street in Manhattan's Lower East Side, opened its doors in Spring 2022 and has since become a haven for fashion enthusiasts and collectors. The shop showcases an expertly selected range of pieces dating from the early 1900s to the 1980s, offering a shopping experience that feels both exclusive and personal.

The store itself is a visual treat. With exposed cement walls and vintage architectural accents, like an antique sink and a bathtub centerpiece, the space feels both stylish and intimate. This design perfectly complements their collection, which features high-end archival pieces from iconic names such as Yves Saint Laurent, Geoffrey Beene, and Lagerfeld-era Chloé.

Prices range from $200 to $2,000, reflecting the rarity and quality of the items. Desert Vintage attracts collectors who enjoy blending timeless archival designs with modern fashion. By giving new life to rare designer pieces, the store also supports sustainable fashion practices, appealing to those who value both style and conscious consumption.

Open daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Desert Vintage offers an impressive selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Their expertise in sourcing standout vintage items has made them a go-to spot for fashion stylists and serious collectors alike.

Recently, the store expanded its offerings to include menswear, building on its already established womenswear collection. This addition has widened its appeal, drawing in an even broader audience of fashion lovers. Looking for something with a more laid-back vibe? Check out Metropolis Vintage in the next section.

3. Metropolis Vintage

Found at 123 E 7th St in New York's East Village, Metropolis Vintage is a go-to spot for anyone passionate about vintage fashion. Whether you're hunting for rare collectibles or looking for affordable gems, this store has something for every budget and style.

The shop boasts a carefully chosen collection that includes rare band tees, vintage denim, and collectible items. Highlights like vintage Prince t-shirts and Return of the Jedi souvenir shirts reflect their commitment to preserving pieces of fashion history that stand out.

What sets Metropolis Vintage apart is its mix of premium items and budget-friendly finds. Alongside rare band tees and concert memorabilia, you'll find $7 bins filled with hidden treasures. Their inventory spans decades and includes military jackets, vintage boots, and well-preserved denim.

Open daily from 12 PM to 8 PM (with extended hours on weekends), the store offers a boutique vibe while housing an impressive variety of items. The staff is knowledgeable and happy to share the stories behind the pieces, adding an extra layer of charm to your shopping experience.

4. Cure Thrift Shop

Cure Thrift Shop, located at 111 East 12th Street, offers two floors of vintage treasures in a boutique-style setting. From vintage clothing to accessories and home goods, the store's ever-changing inventory ensures you'll discover something new with every visit. With a solid 4.5/5 star rating, it's a trusted spot for high-quality secondhand finds.

Most items are priced under $50, making it an affordable destination for vintage enthusiasts. Founded by Liz Wolff, the shop donates its proceeds to diabetes research, blending fashion with a meaningful cause. This mission aligns with their goal of promoting sustainable fashion while supporting the circular economy.

The shop is open daily from 12 PM to 8 PM. The main floor is packed with clothing, while both levels feature accessories and unique vintage collectibles.

Cure Thrift Shop stands out by offering affordable vintage pieces while actively reducing textile waste. Their combination of style, affordability, and social impact has made them a key player in Manhattan's vintage shopping scene. Whether you're after a standout piece or working on a more eco-friendly wardrobe, this shop delivers a mix of fashion and purpose.

If you’re looking for a more curated and contemporary vibe, check out 2nd Street for a different take on secondhand shopping.

5. 2nd Street

2nd Street, a Japanese-owned chain, brings a curated selection of vintage fashion to spots across Manhattan and Brooklyn, including Chelsea, NoHo, and DUMBO. The store is known for blending streetwear and designer pieces with a focus on quality.

Their inventory spans designer items, streetwear, accessories, and contemporary essentials, catering to a wide range of fashion tastes. Prices are higher than typical thrift stores, reflecting the care and attention given to sourcing and maintaining quality. With frequent inventory updates and neatly arranged displays, shopping here is both smooth and enjoyable.

What sets 2nd Street apart is its strict quality control process. Every item is inspected to ensure it's in excellent condition before it reaches the racks. Combining Japanese attention to detail with New York's vibrant fashion scene, the store stands out as a go-to for second-hand designer and streetwear pieces. It also supports sustainable fashion, appealing to urban shoppers looking for style and eco-consciousness.

If you're after vintage clothing without the chaos of sprawling thrift shops, 2nd Street offers a polished and organized alternative. For a more relaxed and eclectic vibe, Chickee's Vintage provides a different kind of shopping experience.

6. Chickee's Vintage

Situated in Williamsburg at 135 Wythe Ave, Chickee's Vintage is a standout destination that mirrors the neighborhood's mix of style and purpose. Owner Kathleen Sorbara has created a space that offers a blend of high-end vintage treasures and timeless wardrobe staples.

This shop is known for its carefully chosen designer pieces from brands like Chanel, Prada, and Ralph Lauren. Each item is thoroughly checked for authenticity and condition, ensuring only the best make it to the racks. The focus here is on quality, not quantity, with a selection that spans decades of fashion history.

"Why not invest in the original designs instead of reproductions?" - Kathleen Sorbara, Owner

Though the space is compact, the layout makes browsing easy and enjoyable. Prices are competitive compared to Manhattan's vintage boutiques, with designer items typically priced between $175 and $500. Open daily from 12 PM to 7 PM, the store offers a calm and refined shopping experience that feels a step above the usual vintage hunt.

What sets Chickee's apart is its commitment to blending vintage fashion with modern awareness. Alongside its curated vintage collection, the shop also features pieces from local eco-conscious designers, offering shoppers a mix of past and present styles.

"Incredible staff, really fair prices and most importantly, top of the line selection. My #1 favorite vintage store." - Customer Review

For those looking to own pieces with a story, Chickee's Vintage is the place to go. From everyday classics to rare collector's items, the shop has earned its reputation for authenticity and quality. It's a must-visit for anyone aiming to build a stylish, sustainable wardrobe with genuine designer finds.

If you're in the mood for a broader selection, check out 10ft Single by Stella Dallas for a more eclectic vintage experience.

7. 10ft Single by Stella Dallas

Located at 285 North 6th Street in Williamsburg, 10ft Single by Stella Dallas is a go-to spot for vintage lovers, offering a wide range of clothing from different decades.

This store is all about discovery. With racks filled with vintage denim, rare designer finds, and unique pieces, it’s a treasure trove for anyone who loves digging for something special. The layout invites you to explore, making the hunt just as exciting as the find.

Whether you’re after 1970s bell-bottoms or a 1990s band tee, the collection covers a variety of styles and eras. The shop is known for its mix of variety, quality, and affordability, making it a favorite for vintage enthusiasts. Each item is carefully selected for its character and story, offering shoppers a chance to own something truly special.

"The store has earned a 4.5/5 star rating on Yelp from over 200 reviews, with customers consistently praising both the selection and knowledgeable staff."

By giving vintage items a second life, 10ft Single contributes to reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly shopping - a perfect match for NYC’s growing interest in sustainable fashion.

For a quieter shopping experience, try visiting on weekday mornings when it’s less busy. Prices generally range from $10 to $100, though rare finds can go higher. The store also hosts events and pop-ups, keeping things interesting for regular visitors.

If you’re after vintage sportswear with a nostalgic twist, check out Mr. Throwback, which specializes in retro athletic gear.

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8. Mr. Throwback

Found at 437 E 9th St in Manhattan, Mr. Throwback is the ultimate destination in NYC for vintage sportswear. The shop focuses on jerseys, team jackets, and rare collectibles from the 1980s and 1990s, featuring iconic leagues like the NBA, MLB, NFL, and NHL. Beyond sportswear, you'll find nostalgic toys, vintage video games, and secondhand sneakers - perfect for sports fans and retro fashion lovers.

"The store has earned a 4.5-star rating on Yelp, with customers praising its extensive collection and knowledgeable staff."

Prices for vintage jerseys range from $50 to $500, depending on their rarity. Open daily from 12 PM to 8 PM, the shop attracts both local vintage enthusiasts and tourists exploring the East Village.

Mr. Throwback stands out in NYC's vintage scene by offering a niche experience for sportswear collectors. The shop not only celebrates the history of sports through its collection but also supports sustainable fashion by giving these items a second life.

If you're looking to switch gears from retro sportswear to upscale European fashion, Amarcord Vintage is a great choice, offering high-end designer pieces with timeless style.

9. Rogue

Rogue, located at 154 Allen St in the Lower East Side, is the brainchild of Emma Rogue. Known for its Y2K fashion and nostalgic 2000s vibe, the store gained popularity thanks to Emma's viral success on TikTok. Inside, you'll find an eclectic mix of pieces from Jean Paul Gaultier, Hysteric Glamour, and Chrome Hearts, alongside thrifted baby tees and vintage designer bags from Dior's John Galliano era.

"This is a sustainable way of shopping. And it's a sustainable lifestyle that my business is promoting, and that thrifting in general promotes." - Emma Rogue, Founder of Rogue

The shop is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 7 PM, Saturdays 11 AM to 7 PM, and Sundays from noon to 7 PM. Prices start at $45 for vintage t-shirts, with higher-end designer items available for serious collectors.

Rogue also stands out with its weekly Saturday pop-ups featuring local NYC designers. The store's lively atmosphere, complete with 2000s music, makes it a fun spot to explore Y2K-inspired styles. New arrivals hit the shelves daily, ranging from Hannah Montana memorabilia to modern custom jewelry and accessories.

Rogue captures the essence of NYC's vintage scene by blending past trends with current fashion, all while encouraging eco-friendly shopping. If you're after high-end European vintage with a more polished touch, Amarcord Vintage is another great option to check out.

10. Amarcord Vintage

Amarcord Vintage, located at 223 Bedford Ave in Williamsburg, focuses on premium European vintage fashion. Owners Patti Bordoni and Marco Liotta have put together a thoughtfully selected collection featuring pieces from legendary fashion houses like Alaïa, Chanel, Courréges, and Mugler. Each item reflects both quality and a sense of history.

The boutique showcases a wide range of vintage clothing, accessories, and jewelry, neatly arranged by designer and era to make browsing effortless. Its cozy, refined layout allows collectors to find specific treasures without losing the store's elegant vibe.

Amarcord blends luxury designer finds with options at more approachable price points, appealing to a variety of shoppers. For dedicated collectors, the store provides personalized services, including detailed information about the history and origins of each piece. Known for their focus on authenticity and quality, Amarcord has become a trusted destination for costume designers, stylists, and vintage enthusiasts throughout New York City.

If you're looking for a more relaxed and varied vintage shopping experience, Monk Vintage offers a different take on the city's vintage fashion scene.

11. Monk Vintage

Monk Vintage, situated at 500 Driggs Ave in Williamsburg, is a go-to spot for anyone hunting for vintage treasures. This store offers an eclectic range of clothing and accessories from various decades, making it a favorite among vintage enthusiasts. Plus, their recycling program is a win for eco-conscious shoppers - donate gently used clothes and get a 25% discount.

Inside, you'll find walls adorned with vibrant T-shirts and racks packed with everything from casual everyday wear to high-end designer pieces. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking for rare collector’s items, there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye out for bold graphic tees and retro jackets - hidden gems are everywhere if you take the time to browse.

Monk Vintage is open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 AM to 8:15 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 7:30 PM. Their accessories section is a standout, offering a fantastic range of costume jewelry and vintage clutches. With affordable prices, a wide selection, and eco-friendly initiatives, this shop has carved out its place in New York City's vintage fashion scene.

For a more curated vintage experience, check out Procell, which specializes in pieces that highlight cultural and fashion history.

12. Procell

Procell, located at 5 Delancey St in the Lower East Side, is a must-visit spot in NYC for anyone hunting rare vintage gems. From hard-to-find sports jerseys to archival pieces by Comme des Garçons, this store has become a favorite among fashion lovers.

What sets Procell apart is its carefully chosen inventory, which blends the past with current fashion trends. The store leans heavily into the revival of 90s streetwear and archival designer pieces, breathing new life into these items while promoting eco-friendly fashion. Their sharp selection has drawn in high-profile customers like Amy Sedaris and fashion critic Jon Caramanica [5].

Inside, you'll find a mix of standout items, from casual streetwear to luxury designer pieces like pink Fendi dresses. This balance between approachable and high-end fashion makes Procell appealing to both collectors and everyday shoppers [5].

Prices vary depending on the item, but the range reflects the diversity of the collection. For a more relaxed shopping experience, try visiting on weekday mornings when the store is quieter. With new arrivals coming in regularly, each visit offers the chance to discover something unexpected.

For those who love Procell's curated vibe but want an even more exclusive experience, check out Proprietors, which takes a similar approach to vintage fashion.

13. Proprietors

Proprietors, located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn (157 Green St.) and Hudson (558 Warren St.), is a standout destination for vintage fashion lovers in New York. The Brooklyn store welcomes visitors daily from 12 PM to 7 PM, while the Hudson location operates Thursday through Monday, 11 AM to 6 PM.

This shop collaborates with well-known vintage vendors to offer a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home décor. By bringing together pieces from different eras, Proprietors creates a shopping experience that's both diverse and thoughtfully curated. New items are added daily, making each visit feel fresh and exciting for regular shoppers.

Both locations are known for fair pricing while maintaining excellent quality and condition standards. If you prefer a quieter visit, weekday afternoons are your best bet. Have questions? You can reach the Brooklyn store at 347-463-9612.

Proprietors stands out by blending various vintage styles into a well-organized and appealing collection. The store also supports eco-conscious shopping by giving pre-loved items a new life. Whether you're after bold statement pieces or everyday vintage finds, you'll discover options that suit different styles and budgets.

For those seeking a more specialized collection with global influences, consider checking out Tokyo Joe as your next stop.

14. Tokyo Joe

Tucked away in the East Village at 334 E 11th St, Tokyo Joe has been a go-to spot for vintage fashion lovers in New York since 1994. Run by female Millennials and Japanese immigrants, this boutique specializes in a thoughtful selection of high-end vintage clothing and accessories for both men and women.

Despite its small size, Tokyo Joe makes the most of its space with an organized and welcoming layout. Inside, you'll find an impressive collection of designer items from top brands like Gucci, Miu Miu, Anna Sui, and Louis Vuitton. What sets this boutique apart is its blend of luxury and affordability. Where else can you snag a Chloe sweater for $28 or a vintage D&G blazer for $245?

"The selection is top notch here. True, the store is VERY small... but all that doesn't matter to me when I see all these great designer items for sale."

Tokyo Joe is open every day, welcoming visitors from 1 PM to 7:30 PM on weekdays, with longer hours on weekends. A highlight of the store is its denim collection, featuring brands like Levi's and Everlane, and they also offer worldwide shipping for vintage fans beyond NYC.

By giving designer pieces a second life at affordable prices, Tokyo Joe embraces sustainable fashion while making luxury accessible. Their dedication to quality and authenticity has earned them a loyal following in New York’s vintage scene.

For those looking for a more daring and curated vintage shopping experience, James Veloria presents a bold alternative in the world of vintage fashion.

15. James Veloria

Tucked away in Manhattan's Lower East Side, James Veloria is a boutique specializing in designer pieces from the 1960s to the 1990s. Known for its carefully chosen selection, the store ensures every item is genuine through expert appraisal, cementing its reputation for offering true vintage finds.

The collection includes everything from timeless designer classics to daring, avant-garde pieces. Expect to see prestigious labels like Gucci and Miu Miu, all sourced from estate sales and private collections. This thoughtful curation not only celebrates fashion history but also supports eco-friendly shopping habits.

Prices start in the hundreds, with rare, sought-after items climbing into the thousands, reflecting their rarity and craftsmanship. The boutique’s cozy layout enhances the shopping experience, while the staff’s expertise helps customers uncover the story behind each garment and explore styling possibilities.

With a constantly updated inventory, James Veloria keeps shoppers coming back for fresh finds. If you’re on the hunt for rare, high-end designer pieces with a rich backstory, this boutique is a must-visit in NYC’s vintage fashion scene.

James Veloria blends vintage luxury with sustainability, offering a shopping experience that’s as unique as the city itself.

Conclusion

New York City's vintage fashion scene showcases the city's rich style heritage. From the budget-friendly gems at L Train Vintage to the curated designer collections at James Veloria, these 15 stores highlight the variety and charm of vintage shopping. Each shop offers something special, whether it's Mr. Throwback's streetwear vibe or Amarcord's luxury designer pieces, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

What makes these stores stand out is their careful selection process. Owners and staff, with years of expertise, handpick items that combine historical value with quality. This attention to detail ensures every piece has a story to tell while meeting today’s standards.

Neighborhoods like the East Village and Lower East Side are hubs for vintage enthusiasts, offering clusters of stores to explore in one trip. From designer fashion to casual essentials, these shops make it easy to stumble upon one-of-a-kind finds.

Shopping vintage not only adds unique items to your wardrobe but also supports a more eco-conscious approach to fashion. These stores prove that personal style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Whether you’re hunting for rare designer pieces or everyday staples, NYC’s vintage shops offer timeless treasures that bridge past and present.

Why wait? Dive into these iconic stores and discover the hidden stories behind your next wardrobe favorite.