Let us take you back to your screens in 2018, where Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird starring Saoirse Ronan premiered. Not only did this film steal hearts and win awards, but it also started a revolution for thrift stores. Several scenes in the film were shot inside ‘Thrift Town’ in Sacramento, California in the vintage section, as Lady Bird and her mother hunt for a prom dress. These scenes were our initiation into the vast world of the thrift business and upcycled fashion, a previously relatively unknown concept in India. Today, however, thrifting and thrift stores, both online and physical, have taken the country by storm. Access to sustainable fashion at discounted prices, right at our fingertips. Instagram has made thrift shopping too easy. So, here is our review of some of the best and most affordable thrift stores on Instagram that you must take a look at!
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Known for their pop-up stalls, seasonal and festive discounts, and even their physical store location, Bombay Closet Cleanse is one to watch out for. They sell a wide range of clothing and accessories, such as vintage jewellery, corsets, varsity jackets, anime t-shirts, handbags, and even paperbacks! Be sure to check out their ‘Binge Sales’ when you visit their store at Waterfield Road, Mumbai.
2. Lulu Thrift
With ethical fashion becoming the new norm, thrift stores like Lulu Thrift have become all the rage on Instagram. This store offers second-hand clothes from clothing giants like Zara and Forever 21 at affordable prices. You can even find coats, formal and vintage trousers, handbags, and knitted sweaters. Lulu Thrift also has some hefty discounts on occasions such as Women’s Day and Black Friday.
This online store is one of the few thrift businesses that ship globally and their collection of smart casuals is quite a thing. From formal to party dresses, to jumpsuits, from shoes, to heels, and boots, you can name it and they have it. This store also conducts giveaways. Their social media content is fire, all the more reason for you to follow them!
We love their motto, ‘let’s get thrifty, let’s get sustainable’. This online thrift shop is a fan favourite because they also sell books and tote bags apart from clothing! Their collection of chequered shirts and tops will allow you to experiment with layering like a pro. So, find your next Clive Cussler thriller and jeans painted with a rendition of ‘A Starry Night’ all in one place.
5. Thrift India
With over fifty thousand followers on Instagram, Thrift India is a store to watch out for. Their feed is filled with the cutest party dresses, sundresses, and cocktail dresses that you’ll ever need. Off-shoulder, sweetheart neckline, neck plunge, backless, criss-cross, full-sleeve, lace, halter-neck, strapless dresses, they have them all. Prepare to be amazed as you browse through their curated collection.
6. Panda Picked
If you adore a classic winter fit, Panda Picked’s collection of cosy knit sweaters is for you. Apart from these, they also have all of the looks from your favourite Pinterest cottage core board and you will not be disappointed. From denim jackets to sundresses to skirts to handbags, and sweater vests much like Harry Styles, their curation has something for everyone.
Known exclusively for their reworked and upcycled vintage womenswear, if you are in the mood for a plaid jacket or a corduroy vest head over to The Local Vintage for your vintage clothing fix. They also have festive and seasonal discounts, and they preview their new collections on their feed regularly. So head over to their page and get your hands on some vintage finds.
8. Thriftiva
Thriftiva boasts of a lovely collection of both western and Indian womenswear on their feed. These include Kurtis, Shawls, Overcoats, and patterned sweaters. They even include freebies in your order, so prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Apart from clothing, their content is very informative and intriguing, encouraging folks to shop sustainably.
Remember to bookmark these virtual and in-person second-hand stores to find some of the best pre-loved looks at a bargain! Kool Kanya’s course on Thrifting will give you the entire download on a thrifted wardrobe, accessories, and how to put together the perfect look. Apart from thrift store myth-busting, you will also learn what is a big ‘No’ while thrift shopping, and thrifted pieces you should own. If you are looking to start your own thrift store or get into the vast world of the thrift business, then this course is for you. #RaiseYourPower by signing up to learn how to become an expert on thrifting.
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