Thrifting is buying second-hand and pre-owned items at thrift stores, consignment shops, flea markets and garage sales. It is very popular in countries like Australia, the United Kingdom and Germany, where mostly young people congregate to buy their latest threads at affordable prices and keep with the ethos of sustainability. In India, second-hand clothing is seen as a marker of poverty but that is quickly changing as the shopping habits of millennials and Gen Z shift to reflect the new norms.
The following five places stock a combination of second-hand and export surplus clothing and accessories so it’s best to check with the company first if you are keen on buying only pre-loved items.
This thrift store opened its doors in 2020 to create a physical space for enthusiasts to find the clothes of their dreams at affordable prices. Buyers can find almost all kinds of clothing styles here, from streetwear and summer dresses to accessories like bags and bucket hats. Their online store and Instagram page are popular with fashionistas who keep an eye out for pop-up sales.
Address: Ground floor, 11A, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016
Kawai Fuku specialises in vintage finds that live up to its Japanese name of “cute clothes.” The store is renowned for its premium, second-hand items that follow the Y2K fashion trend. Their petite t-shirts, shorts and swing dresses are popular with customers both online and off.
Address: 16, near Rang Art Gallery, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016
With a keen eye for the latest styles and a commitment to affordability, Find Stalk Love is your go-to destination for all things fashion. They stock athleisure, coordinated sets, cropped shirts, fun skirts and a sexy “party edit” collection consisting of body con dresses in chic colours. While their website did not feature plus-size clothing, you may find just what you’re looking for in their physical store. They are open all week from 11AM-7PM.
Address: Shop number 172, Sarojini Nagar Market, Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi 110023
Founded by Neha Shenaz, Huckleberry Hangers stocks factory rejects from brands that are in new or pristine condition; they don’t take in second-hand clothes. Besides dresses, tops and bottoms, what is notable about their collection is its wide range of shoes from brands like Birkenstock and Asra. Whether you’re scouting for loafers, sandals, combat boots or even cowboy boots, chances are that Huckleberry Hangers has got your back.
Address: 50E, Ground Floor, near Hauz Khas Fort Road, below Mia Bella, Hauz Khas Village, New Delhi 110016
H&M, Nike, Zara, Vans, Fila, Bershka and Mango are just some of the brands which feature in ReThought's thrift store. They have crop tops, bralettes, dresses, Hawaiian shirts, Korean high-rise trousers and more selling for nearly 80 per cent off the maximum retail price. Each piece goes through an in-house quality control and brand authentication process before being put on the rack. Their sizes range from small to XXXL depending on the item in question.
Address: Shop number 11 basement, beside Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016