Providence, Rhode Island, with its rich academic and artistic heritage, offers a unique thrift shopping experience that blends New England charm with an eclectic array of styles. This guide gets into the best thrift stores in Providence, highlighting spots that are as diverse and creative as the city itself.
Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Rocket to Mars
Location: 144 Broadway, Providence
Vibe: Retro, nostalgic
Rocket to Mars transports shoppers back in time with its assortment of vintage clothing, housewares, and oddities from the mid-20th century. The store’s vibrant, kitschy atmosphere makes it a destination for those seeking unique, funky finds that echo past eras.
The Vault Collective
Location: 235 Westminster St, Providence
Vibe: Cooperative, curated
The Vault Collective operates as a cooperative of various sellers, each offering a curated selection of vintage clothing and accessories. Its downtown location makes it a convenient stop for fashion enthusiasts looking for high-quality vintage pieces that span from the 1920s to the 1990s.
Designer Second-Hand
Carmen & Ginger
Location: 65 Weybosset Street #108, Providence
Vibe: Charming, boutique-like
Carmen & Ginger offers a carefully chosen selection of vintage goods, focusing on designer labels and high-quality fabrics. Its boutique setting in the historic Arcade Providence adds to its allure, providing a quaint shopping experience for those in search of upscale vintage and collectibles.
Second Time Around
Location: 294 Thayer Street, Providence
Vibe: Upscale, fashionable
Located in the bustling Thayer Street area, Second Time Around features an array of designer second-hand clothing and accessories. The store specializes in contemporary brands, offering fashion-savvy shoppers the latest trends at reduced prices.
Unique Finds and Specialty Shops
Nostalgia
Location: 236 Wickenden St, Providence
Vibe: Eclectic, artsy
Nostalgia is known for its diverse collection of vintage clothing, antiques, and pop culture memorabilia. The shop’s eclectic aesthetic and array of unusual items cater to collectors and those with a flair for the dramatic.
Armageddon Shop
Location: 436 Broadway, Providence
Vibe: Alternative, underground
While primarily a music store, Armageddon Shop also offers a selection of vintage band t-shirts and music-related memorabilia. Its alternative vibe appeals to music lovers and those looking for clothing with an edge.
Contemporary Second-Hand and Streetwear
Savers
Location: 201 Branch Ave, Providence
Vibe: Spacious, well-organized
Savers in Providence is a large thrift store offering a wide range of second-hand clothing, including contemporary styles and streetwear. Its organized layout and vast selection make it a popular choice for those looking to update their wardrobe on a budget.
Closet Revival
Location: 30 Broadway, Providence
Vibe: Trendy, youthful
Closet Revival specializes in contemporary second-hand fashion, offering a mix of streetwear, designer, and vintage styles. Its trendy vibe and rotation of new arrivals make it a hit among young adults and college students looking for affordable fashion.
Markets and Flea Markets
Providence Flea
Location: 345 South Water St, Providence
Vibe: Lively, artisanal
Providence Flea is a seasonal market that features a mix of local artisans, vintage vendors, and food trucks. Its lively atmosphere and scenic waterfront location make it a favorite weekend destination for locals and visitors seeking unique finds and handmade goods.
The Hope Street Farmers Market
Location: Lippitt Memorial Park, 1015 Hope Street, Providence
Vibe: Community-focused, vibrant
While primarily a farmers market, The Hope Street Farmers Market also hosts several local vendors selling handmade and second-hand items. The market’s community-focused vibe makes it a pleasant place to shop for locally sourced products and crafts.