10 Best Second-Hand Stores in Melbourne

With locations in Melbourne, as well as Bendigo, Kyabram, and Northcote, Storehouse Thrift is a powerhouse for vintage fashion in Australia. The bright orange sign of their Windsor location is impossible to miss, as are their eye-catching window displays. Step inside and you’ll be met with a kaleidoscope of colorful fashion, accessories, and homeware.

From retro designer brands to quirky one-off pieces, you’re sure to find a well-priced treasure or two. A handy tip from us: check out the $5 sale rail for the ultimate bargain. And the finishing touch? You’ll not only leave with an amazing new outfit but also feel good knowing that Storehouse Thrift donates 100% of their profits to their rehabilitation program for individuals with addictions.

Operated by the Muslim-run National Zakat Foundation, the Zikkies Community Store aims to help those less fortunate in the local community with every sale of new and pre-loved goods. Pop into the busy Sydney Road shop and take your time perusing every inch of this small but characterful collection.

You might come across a vintage dresser from years gone by or perhaps find the perfect toys for your kids at a fraction of the high street cost. Shelves are crammed with well-loved books looking for a new home, too. Don’t be shy to ask the friendly staff about their favorite picks, either. They’ll be happy to help.

Touted as Australia’s largest vintage store, RetroStar Vintage Clothing can be found inside the Nicholas Building on the busy corner of Flinders Lane and Swanston Street. Set aside a good hour to explore, because this shop is both huge and packed to the rafters with rails. Music lovers can search for a retro band shirt while fashionistas can update their wardrobe with rare accessories and clothes from decades past.

It's not just off-the-rack, either. Reworked items are for sale, too, giving second-hand garments a brand-new life so you can find something truly one-of-a-kind. Be sure to check out their website for handy blogs and exclusive products, and don’t miss their “Nothing over $5” warehouse sales.

Another gem situated within the Nicholas Building, Vintage Sole is a well-established thrift store dedicated to offering an alternative to fast fashion. The collection of clothing for sale has sustainability and affordability at its heart and contains both classic vintage staples and garments with a more contemporary flair to create something truly unique.

The store itself has a classy, retro vibe that perfectly complements the racks of pre-loved clothing, shoes, and accessories. Their range of cowboy boots in rich, buttery leathers is always popular, as is the selection of vintage designer options. Swing by the Fitzroy and Chapel Street locations for even more choices.

Surrounded by retail outlets, restaurants, and sightseeing opportunities, OTC Vintage on Flinders Street is a wonderful option when thrift shopping in Melbourne. The company’s been going since the 80s, making it one of the city’s oldest, and most beloved, vintage stores. You can rest assured that each product on sale is hand-picked for its quality and style and might even come from overseas.

There’s a cool, grungy aesthetic to the city store that matches its inventory, and we love that the walls are adorned with posters and murals. After you’ve pored over each heaving rail of garments, check out the stacks of vinyl and add a few to your collection. OTC Vintage has a Brunswick location, too.

Inside the QV Shopping Centre within Melbourne’s central business district, you’ll find American Rag, a well-known and well-established vintage shop with a big focus on imported American classics. Whether they’re from the 60s or the 00s, the staggering range of denim for men and women is nothing short of outstanding.

Pair your new-to-you pair of jeans with a colorful graphic tee or a Western-style button-up complete with fringing. Dresses take center stage here, too, with plenty of vibrant 60s patterns and elegant gowns to choose from. Customers rave about the super helpful staff, so be sure to ask if you have a piece in mind or want some recommendations.

Over 50 stallholders have set up shop at the Lost and Found Market in Fitzroy, making this warehouse market a must-visit when it comes to thrifting in Melbourne. The upstairs space in a heritage building covers a whopping 1,000 square meters, and every corner holds a multitude of riches just waiting for you to discover.

As long as it’s vintage and collectible, Lost and Found will sell it. Alongside clothing, accessories, vintage toys, and knickknacks, there’s eclectic art and quirky crafts to browse. You can choose your wares and then pay for them in one place, which makes the market a super convenient shopping experience.