In recent years, Belfast has seen a surge in the number of thrift stores specializing in vintage clothing, vinyls, books, and general knick-knacks. Whether you are looking to update your summer wardrobe with the fashions of yesteryear or just want to see what this retro-craze right now is all about, our guide to thrift shopping in Belfast will help you on your way to finding some unexpected forgotten gems.
Having opened less than a year ago, Young Savage has attracted quite the reputation among those who are looking for a retro bargain. Ask the friendly owner and he will tell you how he hand picks all the vintage clothing from wholesalers himself. His eye for detail and taste is obvious, with everything from quirky silk scarves to chunky denim jackets on display. There is no shortage of men’s fashion either, with the entire upper floor dedicated to clothing styles spanning the last 50 years.
The Vintage Magpie
Shop, Store
What this little one-room shop lacks in size it makes up for in vintage merchandise. Predominantly a clothes shop, the store offers funky, colourful 1980s and 1990s jackets and shirts that are sure to grab anyone’s attention. Whether you enjoy the unique feeling of nostalgia of wearing some retro threads or you are throwing a themed party and are looking for the perfect costume, this place should definitely be high on your list of stops in Belfast.
Appropriately off the beaten track, this edgy establishment is perhaps the largest of any of the stores on this guide. As well as an impressive selection of fur coats, army jackets and boot-cut jeans, Octopus’s Garden also boasts a pretty impressive vinyl and CD collection, largely made up of donations from the general public. Upstairs, the ‘sale room’ can be found, in which everything can be bought for £5 (or £10 if you buy 3 items) ranging from vintage hats and caps to second-hand Irish-dancing costumes. The possibilities are endless here!
If you like your thrift stores complete with a soundtrack of The Beatles and a strong 1960s and 1970s nostalgic vibe, then the aptly named Yellow Submarine is the thrift store for you. Hidden away on an upper-floor on Botanic Avenue, this multi-floored store is a must-see for Bohemia-lovers of all ages. Some of its main attractions include a sale room where everything is £1 and the vintage band posters and memorabilia gracing the walls. The staff are friendly and approachable and when paying for the treasures you’re sure to find, make sure you don’t miss the selection of vintage knick-knacks at the till.
Oxfam Ireland
The only thing better than spending a few hours sifting through the forgotten gems in a thrift store is doing so while knowing the money you spend is going toward a fantastic cause. Oxfam Ireland do incredible work improving the lives of those in need both at home and abroad and you can be a part of this, all while finding the perfect retro ensemble. The fashions, trinkets and books are all reasonably priced which means you’re sure to find a bargain or two in this store! If it’s more second-hand literature you’re after, or perhaps some furniture, two further Oxfam stores can be found within walking distance.
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Quaint and charming, Red Cross Vintage and Retro offers a touch of sophistication to the Belfast thrift store scene. Specializing in elegant 1950s style dresses and floral blouses, this store is the perfect place to look for a present for Mother’s Day or add some golden age style to your summer wardrobe. Feel like accessorizing? This store has no shortage of retro silk neck-scarves, sun-hats and pearls to spruce up any outfit.
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