Charlotte, North Carolina, blends Southern charm with a growing, diverse population, reflected in its eclectic thrift and vintage shopping scene. From upscale consignment boutiques to hidden vintage gems, the city offers a variety of thrifting experiences catering to sustainable shoppers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
Location: 6424 South Blvd, Charlotte
Website: sleepypoetstuff.com
Phone number: +1 704-529-6369
Vibe: Nostalgic, eclectic
More than just an antique mall, Sleepy Poet is a destination for vintage clothing lovers, offering an extensive array of vintage finds spanning various decades. The sprawling space houses numerous vendors, providing a treasure trove of retro fashion, accessories, and even furniture and home decor, all under one roof.
Buffalo Exchange (Permanently Closed)
Location: 1521 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC
Vibe: Youthful, fashion-forward
Part of a national chain known for its contemporary take on vintage and second-hand clothing, Buffalo Exchange in Charlotte is a hotspot for trendy, eco-conscious shoppers. The store’s curated selection includes everything from vintage dresses and denim to modern streetwear and designer pieces, appealing to a diverse crowd looking for unique finds.
Designer Second-Hand
JT Posh
Location: 2400 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC
Website: jtposh.com
Phone number: +1 704-375-1334
Vibe: Upscale, chic
JT Posh specializes in high-end women’s consignment, offering an impressive selection of designer clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories. The boutique’s elegant interior and carefully selected inventory provide a luxury shopping experience, with items from top brands like Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch, and Lululemon at a fraction of retail prices.
Clothes Mentor
Location: 8120 Providence Rd #500, Charlotte
Website: charlottearboretumnc.clothesmentor.com
Phone number: +1 704-594-7949
Vibe: Modern, sophisticated
Clothes Mentor is a women’s resale store that stands out for its wide range of designer and high-quality second-hand clothing and accessories. Catering to fashion-savvy women, the store offers a variety of sizes and styles, from casual wear to professional attire, all at affordable prices.
Unique Finds and Specialty Shops
The Rat’s Nest
Location: 442 E 36th St, Charlotte, NC
Website: the-rats-nest.jany.io
Phone number: +1 704-371-3599
Vibe: Retro, Americana
The Rat’s Nest is Charlotte’s go-to spot for American vintage clothing, specializing in items from the 1940s to the 1980s. The store’s Americana vibe is reflected in its collection of denim, leather jackets, vintage tees, and workwear, making it a haven for those in search of authentic, retro pieces.
Hong Kong Vintage
Location: 1200 The Plaza Suite E, Charlotte
Website: hongkongvintage.com
Vibe: Quirky, vibrant
Nestled in the heart of Plaza Midwood, Hong Kong Vintage offers a colorful and eclectic mix of vintage clothing, accessories, and novelties. The store’s fun and inviting atmosphere, combined with its affordable prices, make it a popular choice for shoppers looking for something out of the ordinary.
Contemporary Second-Hand and Streetwear
Plato’s Closet
Location: 10215 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC
Website: platoscloset.com
Phone number: +1 704-717-2972
Vibe: Casual, trendy
Plato’s Closet in Charlotte caters to teens and young adults, offering gently used clothing and accessories that reflect the latest trends. The store is perfect for those looking to update their wardrobe without spending a lot, with a selection that includes popular brands like Adidas, American Eagle, and Forever 21.
Uptown Cheapskate
Location: 9015 J M Keynes Dr #5, Charlotte
Website: uptowncheapskate.com
Phone number: +1 704-900-8014
Vibe: Contemporary, stylish
Uptown Cheapskate offers a fresh approach to second-hand shopping, featuring a selection of current styles from well-known brands and designer labels. The store’s chic, boutique-like setting provides a pleasant shopping experience, with the added benefit of selling or trading in your own gently used clothes for cash or store credit.
Charlotte’s thrift stores and markets not only offer a wide range of shopping options but also reflect the city’s evolving fashion scene and commitment to sustainability.