Austin, Texas, is well-known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, and one of the best ways to explore this is by visiting vintage and thrift stores. Austin has many options if you’re looking for unique clothing, rare vinyl records, or quirky home decor.
SoCo: The Heart of Austin’s Vintage Scene
South Congress Avenue, known as SoCo by locals, is the epicenter of Austin’s vintage and thrift scene. Here you’ll find a wide range of stores, from high-end vintage boutiques to second-hand shops. Some must-visit stores on SoCo include Feathers Boutique, which specializes in vintage and designer clothing, and Uncommon Objects, which features an eclectic mix of antique and vintage items.
Another standout store on SoCo is Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds, which offers a massive selection of costumes and vintage clothing. It’s not uncommon to see people walking down SoCo in full costume, as the store’s selection is so extensive and fun to browse. Additionally, Buffalo Exchange is a well-known chain thrift store with a location on SoCo that is worth checking out for trendy, affordable clothing.
Beyond SoCo: Exploring Austin’s Hidden Gems
While SoCo is Austin’s most popular destination for vintage and thrift shopping, plenty of hidden gems can be found in other parts of the city. One such spot is the North Loop neighborhood, which has a growing number of vintage and second-hand stores. Blue Velvet, in particular, is a must-visit store for vintage enthusiasts, with a well-curated selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories from the 1920s to the 1990s.
Just down the street from Blue Velvet is Room Service Vintage, which offers a mix of vintage and contemporary clothing and quirky home decor items. Another great store in the North Loop area is Laced With Romance, which specializes in vintage lingerie and hosiery. If you’re looking for something unique, this store is worth visiting.
For those willing to venture outside the city, the nearby town of Wimberley is home to a charming vintage store called Kiss the Moon Vintage. Here you’ll find a well-curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and home decor, all displayed in a beautifully decorated storefront. It’s worth the drive if you’re a vintage lover looking for something unique.
Additional Details About the Vintage and Thrift Stores in Austin
- Feathers Boutique – located on SoCo, Feathers is a well-curated boutique that offers a mix of vintage and designer clothing, accessories, and jewelry. The store has a stylish and eclectic vibe, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.
- Uncommon Objects – located on SoCo, is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, and oddities. The store is packed with unique finds, from old medical instruments to vintage taxidermy, and it’s a great place to browse for hours.
- Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds – as mentioned earlier, this store is a costume and vintage clothing paradise. The selection is vast and diverse, and the staff is always willing to help you create the perfect outfit.
- Buffalo Exchange – this thrift store chain has a location on SoCo, and it’s a popular spot for those looking for trendy, affordable clothing. The store buys and sells clothing and accessories, and the selection is constantly changing.
- Blue Velvet – located in the North Loop neighborhood, Blue Velvet is a must-visit store for vintage clothing enthusiasts. The store has a great selection of dresses, jackets, and accessories from the 1920s to the 1990s.
- Room Service Vintage – also located in the North Loop area, Room Service Vintage offers a mix of vintage and contemporary clothing and home decor items. The store has a fun and playful vibe, and it’s a great spot to find unique statement pieces.
- Laced With Romance – this store in the North Loop specializes in vintage lingerie and hosiery. The selection is unique and well-curated, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
- Kiss the Moon Vintage – located in the nearby town of Wimberley, Kiss the Moon Vintage is a charming vintage store with a well-curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home decor. The store has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and it’s worth the drive if you’re a vintage lover.
Conclusion
Overall, Austin is a vintage and thrift shopper’s dream come true, with many stores to explore and treasures to uncover. Whether you’re a seasoned vintage hunter or just looking for something unique to add to your wardrobe or home, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Austin’s vintage scene is worth exploring, from the trendy boutiques of SoCo to the hidden gems of North Loop and beyond.
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FAQs
What’s the best time to go vintage shopping in Austin?
Most vintage and thrift stores in Austin are open year-round, but checking the store’s hours before you go is always a good idea. Weekends are the busiest, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed shopping experience, you should visit on a weekday.
What’s the price range for vintage and thrift items in Austin?
Prices for vintage and thrift items in Austin vary widely depending on the store and the item. Some stores specialize in high-end designer clothing and accessories, while others focus on more affordable, trendy pieces. Setting a budget before shopping is a good idea so you can spend your money wisely.
What should I wear when vintage shopping in Austin?
Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing when vintage shopping is always a good idea, as you may need to try on many different items. Additionally, some stores can get quite hot if you’re shopping in the summer, so dress accordingly.
What’s the return policy for vintage and thrift stores in Austin?
Return policies for vintage and thrift stores in Austin can vary widely, so it’s always a good idea to ask about the store’s policy before you make a purchase. Some stores may offer store credit or exchanges, while others may have a no-return policy.
Can I sell my clothing at vintage and thrift stores in Austin?
Many vintage and thrift stores in Austin buy and sell clothing and accessories, so it’s worth asking if the store is interested in purchasing your items. Remember that the store may be selective about what they buy, and they may offer you a lower price than what you originally paid for the item.
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