Most consumers can agree on one thing: saving money is good. It's becoming shocking in recent years how expensive local boutiques and department stores have become, and how quickly styles go in and out of fashion. However, if you want to set yourself apart and truly curate your own sense of style, then thrifting is the way to go!
Not only can you save money and help to reduce overconsumption and rampant waste, but there is plenty to choose from and unique clothing pieces that aren't the stock-piled options in the department stores. If your looking for something new, want to recall the style of previous years, or are looking to save a little money, these following thrift stores are a great resource for you!
Top 10 Thrift Stores in New Orleans
1. Out of the Closet
2900 Magazine St., (504) 208-4100
outofthecloset.org
Offering a wide-selection of second-hand and vintage clothes and homeware, Out of the Closet is your one-stop-shop local thrift store! Founded in 1990 to help raise funds and awareness for AIDS healthcare foundation, today, Out of the Closet still donates 96 cents of every dollar to live-saving HIV care.
Stop by Out of the Closet on Magazine Street and discover hidden and affordable-gems. If you are looking for a place to donate, they've got in-store and pick-up services. All donations are also tax-deductible.
2. Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana
Multiple Locations
goodwillno.org
Goodwill is a thrift store focused on a greater cause and provides services like job training, foster care help, ex-offender work force re-entry, and disability employment. When you shop at Goodwill, you are helping to support their mission of supporting communities. Their large store offers a diverse selection of clothing, home wear, and at an affordable price.
Whether you're looking for your next great thrift find or need to donate some of your goods that are no longer in use, Goodwill is the place to go. They offer in store and pick up donations.
3. Bridge House/Grace House Thrift Stores
Multiple Locations
bridgehouse.org
The Bridge House/Grace House Thrift Stores sells a diverse selection of fine, yet affordable goods. From fine china to out-of-production vintage furniture, there is plenty to see and buy. They also offer pick up services and in store donations.
In partnership with Bridge House and Grace House, they are focused on providing gender-sensitive treatment to men and women who have become dependent on substances. They are a staple part of the community in helping individuals to recover and move forward with their lives. Purchasing from their thrift store helps to support their charity and ensures that everyone who needs help can get it regardless of wealth-status.
4. The Encore Shop
7814 Maple St., (504) 861-9028
encoreshopnola.com
If you're on a mission for high-end, second-hand clothing, The Encore Shop is the place to stop. Located in NOLA's university area, The Encore Shop offers business and formal attire in good condition at a bargain price. Gently used designer items can be consigned with an appointment and apparel can be donated as well.
This consignment store supports the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, with all sales benefitting the preservation of music arts in New Orleans since 1966. Find your next ball gown or suit at The Encore Shop, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5. Junk's Above
4626 D'Hemecourt St., (504) 952-5865
junksabove.com
Junk's Above prides itself in giving new life to any and all second-hand items. Adorned with vibrant colors and quirky art pieces in a repurposed plumbing supply building, Junk's Above is a true gem and you're sure to find a gem of your own inside. You'll find the cheapest items in the dollar closet—gadgets and gizmos aplenty, all for a dollar or less. So what kind of junk do they sell?
At Junk's Above, you can find your next favorite board game, record, candlestick, or helmet. See just what Junk's Above has in store by visiting from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Friday to Sunday.
6. Swamp Rags Vintage
533 St. Louis St., (504) 298-9719
swamprags.com
Selling original apparel as well as vintage clothing, Swamp Rags Vintage provides a memorable experience for customers in search of unique finds.
This store located in the heart of the French Quarter also sells nostalgic memorabilia for your favorite moments in pop culture, from retro band tees to cartoon character accessories. Original apparel is sold on their website, while eccentric pieces are yours to find in-store every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
7. Swap Boutique
3822 Magazine St., (504) 304-6025
swapboutique.com
In need of a designer outfit while shopping in the Uptown area? Stop by Swap Boutique, a women's designer clothing consignment store. Since 2008, Swap Boutique has provided fashionable apparel to shoppers searching for the finer things while on a budget.
Both buyers and consignors can feel confident in their eco-conscious community impact and their style. Consignors can opt to take home their earnings or donate to a named nonprofit organization with Consign for a Cause. Stay ahead of the trends and shop for designer clothing at Swap Boutique both in-store or online.
8. YEP Thrift Works
1626B Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., (504) 702-8070
facebook.com/yepthriftworks
The Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) gives young people the valuable experience of customer service, point of sale, and inventory management through YEP Thrift Works.
Peruse YEP Thrift Works' clothing, furniture, and houseware items while supporting New Orleans youth in this colorful, inviting retail environment. Stop by YEP Bike Works next door to shop bikes or get your own bike fixed. Empower youth by providing them valuable retail experience at YEP Thrift Works, open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
9. bdffrnt Vintage
1629 St. Charles Ave., (504) 702-8070
facebook.com/people/Bdffrnt/100063280477122
Searching for a blast from the past? Shop 70s, 80s, and 90s clothing at bdffrnt Vintage. This vintage gem also sells trinkets, jewelry, hats, and more in a welcoming, bright, revamped house.
Although your kids might not have been around during the late 20th century, they are sure to enjoy bdffrnt's retro television playing different movies. Be yourself, and most importantly, be different by shopping at bdffrnt Vintage.
10. Glue Clothing Exchange
8206 Oak St., (504) 939-5865
glueneworleans.com
The coolest thrift store in town, Glue Clothing Exchange has an interesting and spunky curated set of items that push the limits when it comes to fashion. From clothes to accessories, and even vintage guitars, the Glue Clothing Exchange has a lot to offer!
Try something new and look your best by stopping here. With affordable prices and fun vintage pieces, you can time-travel to any-era and find any style you're looking for.
Find Unique Items at NOLA's Best Thrift Stores
New Orleans is known for it's historic charm and vintage scene, making it one of the best cities to thrift in! Whether you want to find an avant-garde outfit for Mardi Gras, a fun and feathery Halloween Costume, or simply want to save some money—and help the environment—by buying second hand, then this list above has the best selection of thrift stores.
