Rochester offers a quaint yet robust thrift shopping experience that reflects the city’s commitment to community and sustainability. From eclectic vintage shops to contemporary second-hand stores, this post covers the best thrift stores in Rochester, each providing its unique charm and variety of offerings.
Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Far Out Vintage
Location: 633 Monroe Ave, Rochester (Permanently closed)
Vibe: Retro, nostalgic
Far Out Vintage is a treasure trove of vintage apparel and accessories, focusing on the 60s to the 90s. The shop is filled with a colorful array of clothing, from psychedelic shirts and floral dresses to classic leather jackets, catering to those who love to make a statement with their style.
Treasure Trove Vintage
Location: 121 Park Ave, Rochester (Permanently Closed)
Vibe: Elegant, curated
Nestled in the bustling Park Avenue area, Treasure Trove Vintage offers a carefully selected collection of vintage garments and accessories. Specializing in items from as early as the 1900s to the 1970s, this boutique appeals to vintage aficionados looking for authentic, high-quality pieces for their wardrobe or special occasions.
Designer Second-Hand
Panache Vintage & Finer Consignment
Location: 1855 Monroe Ave, Rochester
Vibe: Upscale, sophisticated
Panache Vintage & Finer Consignment specializes in high-end vintage and designer clothing for women. With a focus on luxury brands and premium quality, Panache provides a boutique experience, offering everything from classic Chanel suits to contemporary Prada dresses.
Second Chic
Location: 739 S Clinton Ave, Rochester (Permanently Closed)
Vibe: Trendy, eco-conscious
Second Chic offers a mix of contemporary and vintage designer pieces. The store is dedicated to sustainable fashion, featuring a range of styles from recent collections at reduced prices. Shoppers can find modern trends alongside classic staples, making it a go-to spot for fashion-forward, eco-aware individuals.
Unique Finds and Specialty Shops
Abode
Location: 289 Gregory St, Rochester
Vibe: Artistic, eclectic
Abode is more than just a thrift store; it’s a destination for unique home decor, art, and furniture alongside a selection of vintage clothing. Known for its bohemian vibe, this shop attracts those looking to add personality and charm to their homes and wardrobes with one-of-a-kind pieces.
Record Archive
Location: 33⅓ Rockwood St, Rochester
Vibe: Vintage, music-themed
Record Archive isn’t just a place to find vintage records; it also offers a variety of retro clothing and pop culture memorabilia. The store creates a nostalgic atmosphere that transports customers back in time, making it a favorite for music lovers and collectors alike.
Contemporary Second-Hand and Streetwear
Plato’s Closet
Location: 3333 W Henrietta Rd, Rochester
Vibe: Youthful, modern
Plato’s Closet caters to teens and young adults, offering contemporary second-hand clothing at budget-friendly prices. The store stays up-to-date with the latest trends, providing a dynamic selection of streetwear, casual wear, and accessories.
Clothes Mentor
Location: 3333 W Henrietta Rd, Rochester (Permanently closed)
Vibe: Professional, chic
Located just steps from Plato’s Closet, Clothes Mentor focuses on providing women with high-quality second-hand clothing and accessories. Specializing in professional wear and chic casual outfits, this store offers an affordable way to maintain a stylish, modern wardrobe.
Markets and Flea Markets
Rochester Public Market
Location: 280 N Union St, Rochester
Vibe: Bustling, community-focused
The Rochester Public Market is a local staple, not just for fresh produce but also for its flea market section, which operates on various days throughout the year. Here, shoppers can discover vintage clothing, handcrafted goods, and antiques among the vibrant stalls.
The Flea Market at the Armory
Location: 900 E Main St, Rochester ( Permanently Closed)
Vibe: Historic, diverse
Held inside the iconic Main Street Armory, this flea market offers a wide array of goods from dozens of vendors. From vintage apparel and jewelry to rare collectibles, it’s a popular destination for those seeking variety and historical ambiance.