New York is home to many things: some of the world’s biggest cultural institutions, that iconic skyline, Broadway, next-level pizza and perhaps the greatest park to ever exist, to name just a few. Oh, and then there’s the shopping. It’s a certified world fashion capital, with New York being the first stop on the biannual Fashion Month circuit. And while there are new shops and designers popping up everywhere you look, one of the greatest things about New York’s shopping scene is its vintage offering – making it the ideal place to forgo fast fashion trends and embrace sustainability. But in a city this big, how do you know where to start? Which vintage stores are actually worth a visit? Here’s a a local-approved, tried-and-tested guide to get you started...
1. Kalimera, Brooklyn
Alexandra Cherouvis‘ has had an impressive first year. Her Brooklyn store boasts a beautifully decorated space with lots of light and even better clothing. Often sourcing from Europe, expect high-quality leathers and inclusive, well-fitting pieces. Out front, you’ll often has a sale rack packed with more affordable buys. Longevity is key to its ethos. “I gravitate towards classic staples,” says Alexandra. “I want customers to get a great quality piece that lasts longer than a single season or trend.”
2. Tired Thrift, Brooklyn & Manhattan
What started as a “passion project” for founders and cousins Elona and Lediona Zharku has grown into one of our favourite spots. They were at college when they set up in Green Point, sourcing “authentic pieces directly from the decades current fashion trends are getting their inspiration from”. Launching a store “for Gen Z, created by Gen Z” proved a hit, and Tired Thrift has since opened a second location in Manhattan. The aesthetic is all witty Y2K slogan tops and micro minis in inclusive sizes. There’s also a focus on community via Instagram Story sales, TikTok content and in-store customer events.
3. Madame Matovu, West Village
Madame Matovu has been a West Village staple since 2007. It’s a treasure chest of clothing, accessories and costume jewellery, where each piece tells a story. The eclectic experience of shopping there encapsulates the vibrant energy of NYC perfectly. And while the city is ever changing and gentrifying, owner Rosemary Wettenhall retains a loyal community of customers thanks to her excellent taste and years of experience. Perfect for fashion magpies.
4. Rogue, Lower East Side
Rogue might just be reminiscent of your childhood bedroom – if you’re a ’90s baby, at least. Focusing on the ’90s and ’00s with a nod to old-school rave wear, the store’s “nostalgia will hit you like a brick”, according to founder Emma Rogue. She progressed from online selling to a bricks and mortar store in 2021, and has since gained fans including Post Malone and fashion designer Jeremy Scott. This seal of approval is testament to Emma’s hard work and social media following (check out the popular street interview series on Rogue’s Instagram and TikTok). Visit for colourful pieces that won’t break the bank, and don’t forget to give SpongeBob a nod on the way out.
5. Reservations Only, Chinatown
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Just steps from the Manhattan Bridge, you’ll find 75 East Broadway Mall. It might look so special from the outside, but step inside and you’ll find a treasure trove of independent designers and vintage sellers, including Reservations Only. The store sources vintage finds from all over the world – head to its website to see a selection of pieces for sale, plus archive pieces available for rent (by fashion professionals only). Everything, as you’ll see, is a total vibe.
