This list of hidden gems will have you wandering down laneways, behind laundromats and under old Queenslander houses to find Brisbane’s best thrift stores created by talented fashion stylists, collectors and vintage enthusiasts. These shops will help re-invent your image and leave you inspired.
If you’re looking for more traditional thrift stores check out The Best Brisbane Op Shops for Bargain Hunting.
ADDRESS: 161 Boundary St, West End QLD 4101, Australia
OPEN HOURS: 9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday, 10-5pm Sunday
WEBSITE: www.swop.net.au
SWOP, stands out as a beacon of sustainable and responsible fashion in the heart of Brisbane. Located in the trendy West End area, SWOP draws in a fashionable crowd looking for a mix of vintage treasures and modern flair. The store stocks an ever-changing stock that includes everything from vintage formal dresses to contemporary pieces with a touch of eccentricity.
What sets SWOP apart is its clothing exchange service, allowing customers to trade in their old garments for cash or store credit.
Since its establishment in 2013, SWOP has expanded to multiple locations and has an online presence, but their core mission remains steadfast—to challenge wasteful practices in the fashion industry by offering a circular fashion economy. By promoting the extended life-cycle of garments through reuse, SWOP aligns with the principles of sustainability and transparency. Their curated inventory reflects the latest trends, ensuring the pieces find new homes and are cherished by the next owners.
SWOP’s commitment to integrity and inclusivity is evident in their fair pricing and focus on ethical labour practices. With a range of items for all bodies and price points, the store welcomes everyone and provides a safe, judgment-free space. The team at SWOT actively engage with the community, fostering partnerships with young creatives and not-for-profit organizations to promote sustainable fashion choices.
For shoppers seeking not only fashionable finds but also the chance to contribute to a greener fashion industry, SWOP Thift Store is the go-to destination. By supporting this local clothing exchange service, customers become part of a movement that values quality, sustainability, and inclusivity in the world of fashion.
ADDRESS: 46 Russell St, West End
OPEN HOURS: 1-6pm Friday and Saturday
WEBSITE: depop.com/elcvintage
Step into the vibrant world of ELC Vintage in West End, Brisbane.
To experience this colourful haven, make sure to plan your visit on Fridays and Saturdays from 1 pm to 6 pm. Alternatively, catch them at one of the markets or festivals they set up at. Situated just off Boundary St, right across from Serendipity Op Shop, ELC Vintage promises an eclectic mix of styles, from oriental embroidered satin to zebra print jackets with a splash of fluorescent colour and Hawaiian prints.
Can’t make it in person? No worries! Explore their stock on Instagram or shop conveniently through Depop, with the added perk of free national shipping (at the time of writing).
ADDRESS: 209 Boundary St, West End QLD 4101, Australia
PHONE: 04 2071 5575
OPEN HOURS: 9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday, 10am-3pm Sunday
WEBSITE: instagram.com/vintagestreet_official
Situated in the heart of West End, this curated vintage thrift store effortlessly blends leather, lace and tweed.
As you wander along Boundary Street, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of treasures sourced from far and wide at Neo-Generalist. Owner Tayla Wallace’s keen eye for fashion brings blends feminine with punk. Soft pastel paisley print dresses, embroidered leather cowboy boots and Harley Davison print T-shirts are on display showcasing the cleverly curated collection. At the Neo-Generalist vintage store, the style of bygone eras blends beautifully with contemporary pieces.
The store’s range goes beyond apparel, encompassing handcrafted felted wide-brim hats, red patent leather stilettos, and an array of accessories, including vintage leather handbags, and exotic leather belts.
Whether you’re an avid vintage enthusiast or simply seeking a touch of old-world allure, one visit to Neo-Generalist will have you redefine your personal style.
ADDRESS: 116 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington QLD 4064
PHONE: 04 7817 8317
OPEN HOURS: 12-4pm Thursday & Friday, 11am-4pm Saturday
WEBSITE: barbarellasvintage.business.site
Barbarella’s Vintage is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Paddington on Latrobe Terrace. This vintage wonderland operates as an online shop on Etsy, but if you have the opportunity to visit, they opens their doors from Thursday to Saturday.
Follow the street signage that guides you down the side entrance, below an old Queenslander and peruse the eclectic collection of clothing as you descend the stairs. This basement-style thrift store is anything but gloomy. Entering the space, you’re met with vibrant, multicoloured psychedelic carpet and a quirky record plastered ceiling!
ADDRESS: 284 Given Terrace, Paddington QLD 4064, Australia
PHONE: 04 1325 4251
OPEN HOURS: 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10am -4pm Sunday
WEBSITE: www.rarasuperstar.com
Just across the road from Retro Metro Op Shop, look for the pastel pink laneway lined with palm trees leading to Ra Ra Superstar. Tucked behind a laundromat, talented stylist Kathy Szwedzinski refashions vintage into unique contemporary pieces.
This sustainable fashion label has a distinct 1950s- 1970s feel, with its mix of suede, crochet and velvet.
Whether you visit for the kitch fashion or sustainable ethos of the recycled textiles, Ra Ra Superstar is undoubtedly one of Paddington’s best-kept secrets and a must-visit destination for any vintage lover or fashionista seeking playful and stylish pieces.
*Update: Ra Ra Superstar are closing their storing in Paddington as of August 2023 but you can still visit them at the Peregian store and shop online.
ADDRESS: 44 Conifer St, Alderley QLD 4051, Australia
PHONE: 04 5244 0137
OPEN HOURS: By Appointment
WEBSITE: the-red-queen-27-latrobe-tce.business.site
While Red Queen Design is now only open by appointment, we still wanted to share this beautifully curated collection.
Owner, Sarah Scott, has a wide skillset ranging from business consulting to interior design. She’s let the business evolve over the years, Red Queen Design is now primarily focusing on lending her vintage treasures for set and event hire but still sells vintage items online.
Whether it’s a garden party or a photo shoot, The Red Queen Design has a diverse selection of items available for hire, including giant yard games, vintage crocheted blankets, picnic baskets, and so much more.
Check out her collection online and if something catches your eye send Sarah a message to set up a visit. From exquisite vintage furniture, decor, art, and lighting to stunning fashion pieces.
ADDRESS: 65 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
OPEN HOURS: 10am – 5pm Tuesday to Friday, 10am-4pm Saturday, 11am- 4pm Sunday
WEBSITE: projectstorebne.com
Project Store is the ultimate destination for authentic vintage sneakers in Brisbane. Situated on James Street in Fortitude Valley, Project Store is the go-to thrift store for quality streetwear brands.
Founder Ethan Kostromi’s passion for unique and branded fashion led him to create this one-of-a-kind space in Brisbane, filled with a curated collection of vintage streetwear from iconic 90s sporting and American classics. They stock a vast range of 100% authentic sneakers, including popular brands like FOG Essentials, Yeezy, and Air Jordan.
Project Store takes pride in its authenticity guarantee, using digital authentication and in-hand verification to ensure that every product is genuine and as described. Whether you’re a vintage aficionado or a fan of cutting-edge streetwear, this retailer offers an exceptional shopping experience with carefully selected pieces. Plus, you can even consign your own pieces to share your unique style with others.
ADDRESS: Shop 5/360 Logan Rd, Greenslopes QLD 4120, Australia
PHONE: 04 3471 1005
OPEN HOURS: 10am-5pm Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm Saturday, 9am-3pm Sunday
WEBSITE: instagram.com/vintagestreet_official
If you like PROJECT. then Vintage Street will be right up your alley… You’ll find this thrift shop by venturing down Stoneham Lane just off Logan Road in Greenslopes.
Vintage Street stocks well known global brands such as Tommy Hilfigure, Levis, Adidas, Lacoste, Ralph Lauren and Burberry. Their footwear collection is also on-point with Doc Martins and Birkenstocks in good supply.
ADDRESS: Westfield Chermside & Westfield Mt Gravatt, Brisbane
OPEN HOURS: 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Wednesday & Friday, 9am-9pm Thursday, 9am- 5pm Saturday, 10am-5pm Sunday
WEBSITE: arkivevintage.com
Managed by a fashion industry veteran who started by selling vintage at markets and then worked in fashion retail, Arkive Vintage has strong connections and expertise in the vintage clothing world. The owner’s experience with one of the UK’s largest vintage clothing companies helped establish a wide network of suppliers from around the globe.
These thrift stores source stock from North America and Northern Europe, ensuring a diverse range of international brands and sizes. With their store locations at Westfield Garden City, Westfield Chermside, and the CBD, Arkive Vintage has become a go-to destination for vintage fashion enthusiasts, offering character-filled pieces that add uniqueness to any wardrobe.
ADDRESS: 619-621 Stanley St, Woolloongabba QLD 4102, Australia
PHONE: 04 2063 4743
WEBSITE: canyoukeepasecret.com.au
If you’ve made it to the end of this article then you deserve this little gem – Can You Keep A Secret.
Behind the poster-plastered windows of this beautiful historic 1860s shop front is a lounge bar come vintage clothing hideaway.
The store was previously located in Greenslopes then moved to Woolloongabba in 2014. Owners Ajanta Willert and Emily Moss have created a space you won’t want to leave with its fab decore, effortlessly cool rooms, and surprises around every corner.
Embrace the secret and revel in the charm of this cutesy wine and craft beer bar, where vintage treasures and delightful beverages await. You’ll fall in love with this bar and vintage clothing store.
