A Guide To Thrifting in Boston

1. Research: There are countless spots for thrifting around Boston, and it can be hard to find a spot that has exactly what you are looking for. Researching each spot can help you narrow down some of their unique factors and determine which is your best bet.
2. Stores versus markets: While there are some great stores around Boston, they often have the same types of pieces available all year round. Seasonal markets, such as The Fenway Flea, can bring a new rotation of pieces. These markets are also a great way to support small businesses, as they usually form partnerships with some local shops!
3. The Bins: Some thrift stores have bins that you can sift through, and even buy clothes by the pound. The bins are a great way to find unique pieces and discover new layers to what is available at thrift locations. Beware, you may want to bring gloves to sort through the sometimes dirty bins!
4. Prices: Prices range per location, item and status of the piece. Some designer pieces can still be costly, but they are still significantly marked down from their original price in thrift stores. Curated shops tend to be on the pricier end, but massive warehouse style locations are a great way to find cheaper items.
5. Pieces: Hardcore thrifters are super particular about the specific details of their thrifting finds. From certain brands to the stitch type of clothing, every bit counts!
6. Have Fun: Go thrifting with your friends, discover new parts of Boston and have a good time!

Student Thrift Store Picks:

• Khaya Dryden-Peterson (I)
  The Garment District in Cambridge
  “The pit at the Garment District is
  great; it is always an adventure, and you
  never know what you are going to get. It
  is also a lot less expensive!”
• Olivia Huynh (I)
  Goodwill in Allston
  “The location is super accessible
  (right on the Green Line) and usually has
  a good selection of style since it’s next to
  a college […] I love the purse rack coat
  hanger situation going on to display all
  the bags.”
• Madeline Kim (III)
  Buffalo Exchange in Brookline
  “They have a lot of cool pieces
  you won’t find elsewhere, and it’s [at]
  Coolidge Corner, so it’s a pretty good
  shopping area. [It’s] fun!”
• Dearbhla Reilly (III)
  Goodwill in Jamaica Plain
  “I found a piece that was trending
  for the summer in a bin underneath a pile
  of black leather stiletto boots […] [There
  are] endless colors and styles of clothes.”