The thrifting scene in Singapore has been steadily growing, and as more people become aware of the benefits of thrifting, it has become a trend, especially among young people, to shop for vintage clothing. Furthermore, with the rise of popular second-hand stores like Refash, thrifting has become more accessible, no longer hidden away in remote shop houses but instead easily spotted in malls.
Benefits of Thrifting
So, what exactly is thrifting? In short, thrifting is the act of buying used goods, such as clothing, furniture, or books. It allows people to save money, as many of these items are budget-friendly—even if they're branded and originally came with a hefty price tag. Beyond being budget-friendly, thrifting is part of a sustainable fashion movement, helping to reduce textile waste, one of the world’s biggest contributors to environmental harm. In Singapore, thrifting also means supporting local communities. Many of our second-hand stores are run by non-profit organisations, so by thrifting, you're not only giving back to society but also helping sustain the planet. What a win! Read on to find out where you can thrift and discover hidden gems!
Charitable & Social Enterprise
Praisehaven Mega Family Store (Salvation Army)
Address: 500 Upper Bukit Timah Rd, Singapore 678106
We're sure the Salvation Army is a familiar name to many Singaporeans. Many of us donate our pre-loved goods to help those in need, both locally and around the world. However, did you know that they have a mega family store here in Singapore that sells second-hand goods at a fraction of the price? The amazing part is that you can find branded clothes with the tags still on—at a steal! Of course, most of the proceeds go back to the community. As a result, this store is one of the best and largest second-hand shops in Singapore!
MINDS Shop
MINDS Shop @ Rosyth: 29 Rosyth Rd, Singapore 546190
MINDS Shop @ Margaret Drive: 800 Margaret Dr, Singapore 149310
MINDS Shop Plus @ NTUC Healthcare: 71 Redhill Rd, #01-29, Singapore 150071
MINDS stands for the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore, and all shop proceeds go directly to the organisation, providing allowances for the trainees. The store is managed and operated by MINDS trainees and clients, giving them valuable opportunities in retail and customer service, so they can acquire skills that prepare them for employment. This place is also a hidden gem—dig around, and you might just find a few vintage pieces worth keeping!
SSVP Shop
Address: 501 Geylang Rd, Singapore 389459
Opened about five years ago, this place has gained popularity and become one of the leading charity thrift stores in Singapore. With a wide range of alluring and affordable pre-loved and new items, it's perfect for budget hunters of all ages! The store primarily features women's apparel, along with other knick-knacks—come see for yourself what you can add to your wardrobe! Furthermore, all proceeds go towards funding the Society of St. Vincent de Paul's (National Council of Singapore) programs, which support 3,000 low-income and disadvantaged families of all races, religions, and nationalities. In short, you're doing good!
Trendy & Vintage
The Fashion Pulpit
Address: 298 Jln Besar, #04-00 Allenby House, Singapore 208959
Singapore’s first and largest swapping platform for pre-loved clothes, The Fashion Pulpit has created a system where you can swap clothes instead of buying them. Not only is swapping more sustainable for the environment by reducing carbon emissions, but it also gives you more wardrobe space. Simply sign up to become a member and bring your clothes to their store! They offer a variety of membership options, from a one-time swap membership to a year of unlimited swapping, starting at just $12 for students! Once they’ve checked your clothes, they’ll award you points to start shopping. Can’t use all your points that day? No worries! The points don’t expire, so you can always come back to get more clothes another time. What an interesting thrifting concept!
Loop Garms
Address: 635 Veerasamy Road #01-148 Singapore 200635
If you're a streetwear fan, you can't miss thrifting at this store. Specialising in vintage street fashion and sportswear, you’ll find rare jerseys and vintage concert t-shirts at a fraction of the price! If you're into retro fashion, this place is a must-visit, as you can also find gems like '90s Marilyn Monroe Jeans tees. To get a glimpse of what they have, check out their Instagram store for more!
Kaeru Thrift
Address: 19 Haji Ln, #02-01, Singapore 189212
Specially curated and sourced from countries like Japan and the United States, you know you’re in for a treat at this store! All of their pieces are affordably priced, starting from just $8, to stay true to the meaning of ‘thrift.’ You’ll find beautiful, one-of-a-kind statement pieces as well as basic fashion items. Their items are constantly on restock to keep things fresh and updated! Be sure to check out their social media platforms to see what's new in store!
Refash
Address: Multiple locations around Singapore
As Singapore's largest secondhand fashion destination, we can't talk about thrifting without mentioning them! Featuring a wide range of pre-loved blog shop clothing, you can find quality dresses at a fraction of the price. Most of these dresses have likely only been worn a couple of times before being tossed to the back of the closet. To combat the ever-evolving fast fashion industry, it’s time we take responsibility and reduce waste by shopping for pre-loved goods that are as good as new. Refash has multiple outlets around Singapore, often located inside shopping malls. So, the next time you need a new dress for a special occasion, consider getting it from Refash instead of buying a new piece that you’ll only wear once.
Hone Décor & Collectibles
Junkie’s Corner
Address: 65 Sims Ave, #01-07A, Singapore 387418
Looking for traditional household furniture or decorations? These items are becoming rare and can cost a fortune! However, at Junkie’s Corner, they’re still collecting and selling a wide range of second-hand antiques and old treasures! If you enjoy rummaging through an endless collection of items, this place is a must-visit. You might even score a beautiful rosewood calligraphy table, old telephone receivers, antique wardrobes, and more! Head down now to discover these forgotten precious gems!
Siloam Thrift Store
Address: A'Posh Bizhub, 1 Yishun Industrial Street 1, #05-15, 768160
Driven by their goal to transform communities, Siloam Thrift Store aims to improve the living standards of underprivileged communities in Singapore and Cambodia. Their philosophy is to turn trash into treasure. The store features not only recycled clothes but also a variety of other gems, such as board games, toys, and household items like plates and glassware. With prices as low as $2 per item, you can find precious knick-knacks for yourself while supporting a better community both here and abroad.
In short, thrifting has gained popularity over the years, and for good reason. Whether you’re environmentally conscious while thrifting or simply wish to pay it forward and create a better community, it's a win-win! Let’s do good and look good by trying out thrift shopping today!