Goodwill Hunting: A Guide to Toronto’s Top Thrift Shops

As the great Ryan Lewis once said to the musical legend Mackelmore: “Can we go thrift shopping?”

In recent years, the art of the second-hand shop has become all the rage, and for a good reason. Hitting the thrift is more than just buying used items. It is a social occasion, an economic movement, an environmental revolution, and - dare I say it - a cultural reset.

There are few things I enjoy more than purchasing an iced coffee and browsing the aisles of a downtown thrift shop on a sunny afternoon. With anticipation and an heir of excitement, I eagerly shift through hangers, never knowing what unique piece I’ll find.

But there are other benefits of thrifting as well. Consignment stores offer vintage, trendy, costume, and couture pieces all at a discounted price. You’re able to stretch your paycheque and take home more designer for your dollar while at the same time securing a piece you know is entirely original. There are no back stock or racks of the same item in different colours; at a thrift store, what you see is what you get, and what you discover is authentically yours.

In an age of fast fashion, second-hand shopping provides an environmentally sound solution to the microtrend. When buying previously loved items, you are doing your part to counteract the fashion industry's carbon footprint. Giving a discarded item new life is a sustainable option that everyone can participate in.

I recently received my latest thrift fix while walking the streets of downtown Toronto. The city is an epicenter for culture, art, and fashion, making it the perfect destination for your next vintage shopping spree.

To save you some time browsing the many search results of second-hand store options in the city, I have compiled a list of my top five favourite spots. Consider the following your personal, go-to Toronto thrift guide.

Black Market

Best if you’re looking for: graphic tees and oversized crewnecks

Price Score: $

Location: 347 Queen St W, Toronto

Black Market is a Toronto cult classic. Located on the second floor of its Queen Street location, you might feel as if you have entered a punk rock concert as you ascend the stairs. But don’t let the edgy exterior scare you away; the finds are just too good. Black Market has always been my go-to when looking for a new oversized hoodie, band tee, or piece of funky costume jewelry. Black Market might seem a bit overwhelming at first with its overflowing clothing racks and floor-to-ceiling stock of distressed denim, but it’s perfect for the thrifter who likes a good hunt.

Throwback Vault

Best if you’re looking for: vintage jackets and authentic sports apparel

Price Score: $$

Location: 550 Queen St W, Toronto

Throwback Vault is a curated shop with a clear emphasis on the collegiate and sports vibe. Easy to navigate and sort through, you’ll be quick to find something you love. Rugby shirts, jackets, jerseys, and tracksuits are a specialty for the Throwback Vault. Hard to miss when you first walk in is the eye-catching display of Air Jordans and rare colourway Nikes, making Throwback Vault a must-visit even for the thrifty sneakerhead.

Vintage Depot

Best if you’re looking for: fun prints and cool denim

Price Score: $$

Location: 70 Kensington Ave, Toronto

Since 2001, Vintage Depot has been a Toronto hot spot for all things secondhand. Providing everything from classic faux fur coats to trendy streetwear, this shop in Kensington is a must for your next thrift trip. One thing to love about Vintage Depot is the constant overturn of stock. There’s always something new to discover and add to your collection, so you can be sure to find your next favourite piece any day of the week.

First Kiss Vintage

Best if you’re looking for: a new tattoo

Price Score: $$$

Location: 652 Bloor St. W, Toronto

Upon entering First Kiss Vintage, you will take in the neatly organized shelves of vintage heels, dainty jewelry in display cases, and of course, hear the sound of a tattoo gun. Convenience meets consignment at this vintage shop as you can purchase your newest thrift find and next tattoo all in one place. The fusion of antiquity and grunge styles at First Kiss creates a unique atmosphere and funky vibe.

Common Sort

Best if you’re looking for: Levi’s and brand name basics

Price score: $$

Location: 760 Queen St. E, Toronto

I stepped into Common Sort on a whim one day as I was killing time - and I was pleasantly surprised. Located in the Annex of Toronto, Common Sort is where to go when searching for well-known brands without a high price tag. Brands like Zara, Wilfred, and TNA fill the hangers, but what I found most exciting were the several racks filled with Levi’s denim. No need to worry about finding the right size here either- the shop has an amazing variety when it comes to size inclusivity.

Happy Thrifting!