Albuquerque, New Mexico, offers a unique thrift store scene that blends Southwestern culture with eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and sustainable shopping practices. From sprawling thrift stores supporting local charities to boutique vintage shops with curated selections, the city’s thrift landscape is as diverse as its history and people.
Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Off Broadway Vintage Clothing
Location: 3110 Central Ave SE
Vibe: Quirky, nostalgic
This vintage shop is a treasure trove of fashion from bygone eras, specializing in clothing and accessories from the 1920s to the 1980s. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide selection, making it a go-to for vintage enthusiasts looking for authentic pieces with history and character.
Revolver Vintage
Location: 3507 Central Ave NE
Vibe: Eclectic, retro
Revolver Vintage offers a carefully curated selection of vintage clothing, footwear, and accessories that capture the essence of Albuquerque’s unique style. The store’s retro-inspired decor and diverse inventory appeal to those in search of one-of-a-kind, statement pieces that span various decades.
Designer Second-Hand
Buffalo Exchange
Location: 3005 Central Ave NE
Vibe: Trendy, fashion-forward
Part of a national chain known for its selection of contemporary second-hand clothing, Buffalo Exchange in Albuquerque maintains a local flair with its assortment of designer labels, vintage pieces, and modern streetwear. It’s a hub for fashionable locals and visitors looking to buy, sell, or trade clothing in a lively and stylish setting.
My Best Friend’s Closet
My Best Friend’s Closet
Location: 2910 San Mateo Blvd NE(Closed)
Vibe: Chic, sophisticated
My Best Friend’s Closet is a high-end consignment store offering designer clothing, shoes, and accessories at a fraction of retail prices. The shop features a range of luxury brands and prides itself on its selection of gently used items in excellent condition, catering to those with an eye for quality and style.
Unique Finds and Specialty Shops
Thrift-A-Lot
Location: 7900 Central Ave SE( Permanentaly Closed)
Vibe: Funky, adventurous
Thrift-A-Lot stands out for its vast selection of clothing, furniture, and oddities. This store is a favorite among locals for its affordable prices and the thrill of the hunt, offering everything from vintage decor to unique clothing finds, ensuring a fun and unpredictable shopping experience.
Masks y Mas
Location: 3106 Central Ave SE
Vibe: Cultural, artistic
Masks y Mas is not your typical thrift store but a vibrant boutique that showcases New Mexican art, crafts, and a selection of unique clothing items. The store offers a colorful array of masks, textiles, and jewelry, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Southwest and providing shoppers with a distinctive blend of art and fashion.
Contemporary Second-Hand and Streetwear
Plato’s Closet
Location: 8100 Wyoming Blvd NE
Vibe: Modern, youthful
Plato’s Closet in Albuquerque caters to teens and young adults looking for current fashion trends at bargain prices. Specializing in gently used brand-name clothing and accessories, this store offers a wide range of casual wear, athletic apparel, and trendy outfits, perfect for those updating their wardrobe without overspending.
Urban Outfitters Surplus Store
Location: 3000 Central Ave SE(Permanently Closed)
Vibe: Urban, chic
While not a traditional thrift store, the Urban Outfitters Surplus Store offers discounted clothing, accessories, and home decor items from past seasons. It’s a unique spot for finding contemporary and bohemian styles at reduced prices, appealing to those in search of deals on popular brands.
Markets and Flea Markets
The Flea Market at EXPO New Mexico
Location: 300 San Pedro Dr NE
Vibe: Bustling, diverse
The Flea Market at EXPO New Mexico is one of the largest open-air markets in the state, featuring hundreds of vendors selling a vast array of items, from vintage clothing and antiques to handmade crafts and local produce. It’s a lively weekend destination for bargain hunters and those looking for unique finds in a vibrant, communal atmosphere.
Rail Yards Market
Location: 777 1st St SW
Vibe: Hip, community-focused
Set in a historic blacksmith shop, the Rail Yards Market blends local culture with artisan goods, including a selection of vintage and second-hand clothing. This Sunday market is a gathering place for local artists, farmers, and craftspeople, offering a curated shopping experience alongside live music and food vendors.
Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage Southwestern wear, designer consignment pieces, or unique local art, the city’s thrift scene offers something for every taste and budget.