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Remixing the past, grooving into the bygones, and rocking the retro-thrifting as a whole is an underrated trend in current fashion culture. While some may look at it as hand me downs, for many thrifters, it’s an opportunity to give a previously loved piece another chance, bring some old chic into the new era, support local and focus on sustainable fashion.

If you’re in with thrift culture and happen to be in the Mother City but aren’t sure where to press play on the fashion rewind, we’ve got you. Cape Town is notorious for having tons of wonderful little retro-gems scattered across the city. However, with it being lockdown at the moment you might not feel like sifting through racks upon racks of pieces. Don’t sweat it! This particular guide is your own treasure map to Cape Town’s thrills of thrifting- online edition. You’re welcome.

RetroStash

If some of the most iconic finds with a particular focus on thrifted jackets sounds up your alley, then you need to peak into RetroStash’s closet like, yesterday. When things eventually open up, you can give them a visit on 45 Kloof Street in Gardens, but for now their beautifully aesthetic Insta will serve as the ultimate catalogue.

 

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Instagram: @retrostashclothing

Website: retrostash.co.za

Retrostash was actually my first online thrift purchase back in the day, blessing me with a beautiful sixth sense baby pink coat that I still rock on special occasions – you can even check it out in our Wolf House video. I can proudly say I’ve never been disappointed by their service, while their quality lasts beautifully.

Better Half

If a minimalist vintage energy is what you’re seeking, you need to know about Better Half.

 

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A post shared by Better Half (@betterhalf_thestore)

Their aesthetic is so calmingly classic that it’s hard not to get lost in time while going through their looks. While their physical location is 114 lower main road in Observatory, their online locations can be found right here.

Instagram: @betterhalf_thestore

Website: betterhalf.co.za

Grand Funk Retro Vintage

Quirky. Colourful. The epitome of groove. If dreaming in technicolour is your vibe, then checking out one of Cape Town’s most beloved thrift gems is well worth your time.

Instagram: @grandfunk_retrovintage

Bonus: They’re currently in the midst of their mid-month sale, so if you’re looking for your latest, oldest addition, mosey on over to their page for sure.

Blood Orange

Blood Orange is one of the dopest thrift stores in the Mother City, accommodating all the vibes from dungaree sweethearts to streetwear looks that will make you melt. Their physical location is 7 Beckham Street in Gardens, and their online presence is right here.

Pro-tip: They are dungaree legends, so if you’re in need of some threads of that vibe, their page has all the scoops from look-books to new drops.

Instagram: @bloodorange_cpt

Website: bloodorange.co.za

Bang Bang 

Vintage-alternative is encapsulated by Bang Bang. From the retro Dr Martens to the Vinyls you might be lucky enough jive to in your docs and thrifted threads, Bang Bang has everything you never knew you needed.

Situated on 65 Lower Main Road in Obs, they only provide in-store sales, but scoping their looks online will have you up to date with outfit inspiration, drops and restocks. Their page is a brilliant, wild journey through time and space. In their orbit you’ll find a steampunk aesthetic, platform boots that’ll kick you right back into the 70s and nostalgic festival kit- all curated by the adventurous vintage-eye.

Instagram: @bangbangvintagemarket

Read Also: 

Muizenberg’s Corner Surf Shop turns 50: riding the waves of history like an icon since ’71

Picture: Instagram/ @dani_thelight shot by @taariqkhamissa

 

 

 

 

 

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