Want to look Fresh (Prince)?
Then Philadelphia’s best thrift stores are a non-negotiable.
From upcycled athleisure to vintage band tees and rare sneakers, this city holds fashion-secrets that need uncovering.
But thrifted Philly clothing is not all you’ll find, the City of Brotherly Love boasts killer discounts on high-end accessories, local art, and “revolutionary” decor.
So grab a Philly cheesesteak to go, hail the cab with dice in the mirror, then make like Rocky and “step” to it.
Oh and make sure you old-skool up on these thrift shopping tips before you ring your Liberty Bell on thrifting privileges.
Exploring Philadelphia Thrift Stores
- Philly Aids ThriftPHILLY AIDS THRIFT Jump to store
- Once Worn Consignment Jump to store
- Project Homespun Boutique Jump to store
- The Wardrobe Jump to store
- Thunderbird Salvage Jump to store
- Penny Buck Junction Jump to store
Philly Aids ThriftPHILLY AIDS THRIFT
We love to support a shop that supports their community.
And Philly AIDS Thrift does just that, with charitable endeavors and ridiculous prices.
Every year, proceeds are distributed to local organizations involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS. To date, they’ve donated over 3.7 million dollars.
Support their mission by shopping a selection of clothing and accessories plus books, unique home decor, and even vehicles.
Located in Queen Village, Philly AIDS Thrift is one of Philadelphia’s best thrift stores if you’re looking for a bargain. And there’s no fear of losing out, with daily sales, color coded monthly deals, and ever changing dollar sections.
Price: $-$$$
Once Worn Consignment
Take a ride on the bougie side at Once Worn.
Located in Northern Liberties, this Philadelphia consignment shop curates timeless and modern, high street and designer.
Pop-name brands (think: Free People, Anthropologie, and Urban Outfitters) for a fraction of retail price is the name of the game here.
Once Worn’s penchant for high-quality garments guarantees a head-turning #thrifthaul every time.
Price: $$-$$$
Project Homespun Boutique
Because everyone—and everything—deserves a second chance, stop by HOMEspun Boutique for pre-loved clothing if you’re strolling down the Schuylhill River.
All sales help provide employment and job training to adults and teens recovering from chronic homelessness.
And it’s not just clothes. Visit partner Project HOMEmade for original art and handmade gifts.
Both Philly thrift stores operate as part of Project Home, a nonprofit empowering adults, children, and families to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty.
Your purchase (or donation) to HOMEspun Boutique creates jobs and supports our unhoused neighbors in real time, making this socially minded thrift store one of the best in Philadelphia.
Price: $-$$
The Wardrobe
The Wardrobe is more than just one of the many thrift stores in Philly, it’s a social enterprise fighting clothing insecurity.
While anyone can shop at their local store and snag a deal, The Wardrobe provides free clothing to more than 5,000 folks in need each year.
They frequently host community events focused on professional development, including resume reviews, professional headshots, legal assistance, and support for minority groups.
Since their start in 1995, The Wardrobe has helped over 90,000 people through life transitions where the cost of clothing is a barrier to employment and independence.
Price: $-$$
Thunderbird Salvage
If you’ve got chills—and they’re multiplying(!), we suggest a good dose of Thunderbird Salvage.
You’ll find a hodgepodge of vintage threads, housewares, and furniture, plus records, wall art, and more.
Shop in person at the East Kensington location, or tune in to their Instagram feed to get first dibs on new arrivals.
In addition to vintage treasures, Thunderbird Salvage obtains art and decor from local Philly makers to feature in store.
A Philly thrift store selling one of a kind pieces with a sense of humor?
Tell me about it, stud.
Price: $-$$$
Penny Buck Junction
Neighboring Warminster plays host to Penny Buck Junction, where you can shop great stuff with great sales all for a great cause.
Under founder Deborah Arnone, Penny Buck Junction’s mission is clear: 100% of proceeds are put back into the community to support people recovering from alcoholism or substance abuse.
Like rehab aftercare, housing assistance, financial aid, and community service. In fact, all Penny Buck Junction volunteers have personal or professional experience with substance use disorders.
Your purchase of clothing, accessories, and household items helps Penny Buck Junction stay a safe space.
Price: $-$$
Why Support Philly Thrift Stores?
Every year, Philadelphians toss out over 35,000 tons of clothing and textiles.
In fact, 85% of all textiles purchased in the US end up in landfills, where health hazards like odor, smoke, water contamination, and pollution cause environmental damage.
Which is exactly why thrifting (and shopping at the zero waste stores Philadelphia has to offer) is one of the best ways to embrace slow fashion (and sustainable living) without sacrificing personal style, or the planet.
Liberty from wasteful fast fashion can be as simple as shopping locally for pre-loved pieces. And, if you’re like us, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of finding a steal.
And in Philly you’re not alone: Textile recycling programs like FabScrap and Circular Philadelphia are helping manufacturers do their part too.
