Milwaukee, Wisconsin, may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of thrift shopping, but it boasts a variety of stores ranging from vintage boutiques to contemporary second-hand shops.
Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Alive and Fine
Location: 2658 S Howell Ave, Milwaukee
Vibe: Eclectic, retro
Alive and Fine is a vintage haven with a flair for the dramatic and the unique. Specializing in vintage from the ’50s to the ’90s, the store curates a selection that spans various styles, from disco glam to punk rock. Shopping here feels like a dive into past decades, with each piece telling its own story.
Tip Top Atomic Shop
Location: 2343 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee
Vibe: Nostalgic, Americana
Tip Top Atomic Shop transports shoppers back to the mid-20th century, focusing on ’40s to ’60s Americana. Known for its collection of vintage clothing, furniture, and memorabilia, the shop is a paradise for those fascinated by this era, offering a mix of kitsch and classic elegance.
Designer Second-Hand
Retique
Location: 190 N Broadway, Milwaukee
Vibe: Chic, curated
Retique is Goodwill’s boutique store, offering a handpicked selection of designer and brand-name clothing and accessories. The shop combines the thrill of thrift store prices with the quality of high-end fashion, making it a go-to for eco-conscious shoppers looking for stylish, sustainable options.
Lela Boutique
Location: 321 N Broadway, Milwaukee
Vibe: Upscale, trendy
Lela Boutique stands out for its blend of contemporary designer consignment with select vintage pieces. The store offers a carefully curated collection that caters to fashion-forward individuals, emphasizing quality, style, and sustainability.
Unique Finds and Specialty Shops
Dragonfly Vintage Goods
Location: 1117 E Brady St, Milwaukee( Permanently Closed)
Vibe: Bohemian, eclectic
Dragonfly Vintage Goods offers a diverse array of vintage clothing, jewelry, and home decor. The store’s bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of items make it a perfect spot for those looking to add personality and charm to their wardrobe or living space.
Antiques on Pierce
Location: 1512 W Pierce St, Milwaukee
Vibe: Antique, treasure-filled
Spanning three floors, Antiques on Pierce is Milwaukee’s largest antique mall, featuring a vast selection of vintage clothing, furniture, and collectibles. Shoppers can expect to lose track of time exploring the myriad of booths, each offering its own slice of history.
Contemporary Second-Hand and Streetwear
Plato’s Closet
Location: 7820 W Layton Ave, Milwaukee, and other locations
Vibe: Youthful, trendy
Plato’s Closet caters to teens and young adults, offering gently used contemporary clothing and accessories at affordable prices. The store stays up-to-date with current trends, providing a budget-friendly option for those looking to refresh their wardrobe without compromising on style.
Brew City Salvage
Location: 524 W National Ave, Milwaukee
Vibe: Industrial, vintage-modern
Brew City Salvage is known for its selection of vintage-modern furniture and decor, but it also offers a range of streetwear and contemporary second-hand clothing. The shop’s industrial aesthetic is a nod to Milwaukee’s manufacturing heritage, appealing to those in search of unique, rugged pieces with a story.
Markets and Flea Markets
Milwaukee Public Market
Location: 400 N Water St, Milwaukee
Vibe: Bustling, gourmet
While primarily known for its food vendors, Milwaukee Public Market also hosts occasional pop-up thrift and vintage markets. These events bring together local vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing, providing a lively shopping experience in the heart of the city.
Third Ward Art Festival
Location: Historic Third Ward, Milwaukee
Vibe: Artistic, community-oriented
The Third Ward Art Festival, held annually, includes a section for vintage and artisan vendors alongside its showcase of local art. This community event highlights the creativity and diversity of Milwaukee’s thrift scene, set against the backdrop of the historic Third Ward’s charming streets.
Milwaukee’s thrift stores offer a rich tapestry of shopping experiences, from the hunt for vintage treasures to the discovery of contemporary fashion finds.