Are you a fan of unique fashion finds that won’t break the bank? Cape Town has a thriving thrift shopping scene with a range of shops and markets offering pre-loved clothing and accessories.
But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to begin. So, here are some of the city’s best thrift shops and markets:
Shops:
Nevernew
Nevernew is a thrift store in Observatory that offers a unique shopping experience for vintage and second-hand clothing, shoes and accessories.
The store has a trendy vibe, and the items sold are carefully curated to appeal to a range of fashion styles. Nevernew is popular among students and young adults who are looking for affordable and sustainable fashion options.
- Location: 15b Lower Main Rd, Observatory
- Times: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 6pm | Sunday: 11am to 5pm
- Website: instagram.com/nevernewstore
Afraid of Mice
Afraid of Mice is a vintage shop in District Six specialising in handpicked vintage pieces that are unique, timeless and of high quality.
Their motto is ‘the clothes you wish your mother had kept for you,’ and it perfectly sums up their philosophy. Afraid of Mice’s selection includes clothing, shoes, bags and accessories, and they offer a wide range of styles from the 1920s to the 1990s.
- Location: 99 Harrington St, District Six
- Times: Tuesday to Friday: 10am to 5:30pm | Saturday and Monday: 10:30am to 3:30pm
- Website: instagram.com/afraidofmicect
Grand Funk
Grand Funk Retro Vintage is a trendy and unique thrift store in Observatory that offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, accessories and homeware from different eras.
The store’s focus is on retro and vintage items, but it also stocks some contemporary pieces, making it the perfect spot for those who love to mix and match styles.
- Location: Shop 26, Lower Main Rd, Observatory
- Times: Monday to Friday: 10am to 5pm | Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 4pm
- Website: facebook.com/grandfunkthrift
Also read: 10 markets in Cape Town: A celebration of local design and food
SecondHand Rose
SecondHand Rose is a vintage and second hand clothing store that has been in operation since 1971, making it the oldest and longest running second hand ladies clothing shop in the city.
The shop has a diverse range of stock, from vintage items dating back to the early 1900s to upmarket local brands and luxury designer labels. The store has a constant turnover of stock, ensuring that there is always something new and interesting to see.
- Location: 8, Grove on the Square, Warwick St, Claremont
- Times: Monday to Friday: 9:30am to 5pm | Saturday: 9:30am to 1:30pm
- Website: secondhandrose.co.za
Vintage and The City
Vintage and The City is a vintage fashion store that hand-picks and reworks items to bring you the latest on-trend fashion. The store has a focus on streetwear and festival fashion from the 80s, 90s and 00s.
The founder has a background in environmentalism and started the store as a way to combine her love of fashion and her passion for the environment. She closed the physical store in June 2020 due to the pandemic and has since focused on its online presence.
- Website: vintageandthecity.co.za
Markets:
The Old Biscuit Mill
The Biscuit Mill is a popular destination for thrifting enthusiasts in the city. This trendy market hosts a variety of stalls selling vintage clothing, accessories and homeware.
Shoppers can find unique and one-of-a-kind items at affordable prices, and the atmosphere is lively and bustling, with food vendors and live entertainment adding to the experience.
- Location: 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock
- Times: Sunday to Friday: 10am to 4pm | Saturday: 9am to 5pm
- Website: theoldbiscuitmill.co.za
Milnerton Market
Milnerton Market, also known as the ‘treasure trove by the sea’, is a popular spot for thrifters. Located in Milnerton, the market is open every Saturday and Sunday, offering a wide range of vintage and secondhand goods, including clothing, accessories, furniture, books and more.
Visitors can browse through stalls filled with unique and eclectic finds, haggle for bargains and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market.
- Location: Marine Drive (R27) & Milner Road Intersection Metro Industrial Township, Milnerton
- Times: Saturday: 8am to 2pm | Sunday: 8am to 3pm
- Website: facebook.com/MilnertonFleaMarket
Also read: Thrifting around Cape Town – Why shopping preloved is so popular
The Bay Harbour Market
Located in Hout Bay, the Bay Harbour Market offers a unique and vibrant shopping experience with an array of artisanal goods, food and live music to accompany the variety of vintage and thrift stalls.
Offering shoppers the chance to score some one-of-a-kind finds, the market boasts everything from vintage clothing and accessories to antique furniture and collectibles.
- Location: 31 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay
- Times: Friday: 5pm to 9pm | Saturday and Sunday: 9:30am to 4pm
- Website: bayharbour.co.za
The Oranjezicht City Farm Market
While the Oranjezicht City Farm Market may not be a traditional thrift store, it offers a unique opportunity for thrifting enthusiasts to discover unique, handmade and artisanal items.
Visitors can find a variety of locally produced items such as clothing, accessories, crafts and homeware. The market is open every Saturday and Sunday, and it’s the perfect place to spend a lazy weekend morning browsing through the stalls and supporting local artisans.
- Location: Haul Road, Granger Bay Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- Times: Saturday: 8:15am to 2pm | Sunday: 9am to 2pm
- Website: ozcf.co.za/market-day
Greenmarket Square Flea Market
Greenmarket Square Flea Market is a popular destination for thrifting enthusiasts, offering a variety of second-hand and vintage goods, from clothing to accessories, artwork and handmade crafts.
Visitors can browse through the stalls and find unique pieces at bargain prices, with some haggling encouraged. The market has a lively atmosphere and is surrounded by cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a day out.
- Location: Burg St &, Longmarket St, City Centre
Also read:
Get your fill of fresh produce and little gems at these Cape Town markets
10 markets in Cape Town: A celebration of local design and food
Picture: Nevernew / Facebook