Santa Ana, nestled in the heart of Orange County, boasts a vibrant thrift scene that mirrors its diverse community and rich cultural heritage. From quaint vintage shops to bustling second-hand stores, this guide explores the best thrift destinations in Santa Ana, each offering a unique vibe and a treasure trove of finds.
Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Elsewhere Vintage
Location: 105 W Chapman Ave, Orange, CA
Vibe: Timeless elegance, classic vintage
Nestled in the historic Orange Circle, Elsewhere Vintage presents an exquisite selection of vintage clothing and accessories from the early 1900s to the 1980s. The shop’s charming interior transports shoppers to bygone eras, making it a haven for those seeking authentic vintage garments, from flapper dresses to mod miniskirts, in a meticulously curated setting.
Joyride: Vintage for Men
Location: 109 W Chapman Ave, Orange, CA
Vibe: Refined, masculine vintage
Directly adjacent to Elsewhere Vintage, Joyride caters exclusively to men’s vintage fashion. Specializing in pieces from the 1940s to the 1970s, the store offers everything from classic suits and leather jackets to casual wear and accessories, providing a distinctive shopping experience for gentlemen with a penchant for vintage style.
Designer Second-Hand
The Guild Club
Location: 120 W 5th St, Santa Ana, CA
Vibe: Chic, exclusive designer consignment
The Guild Club is a consignment boutique specializing in luxury designer apparel, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. With a focus on high-end brands and contemporary styles, this store appeals to fashion-forward shoppers looking for designer labels at a fraction of the retail price, all within a sleek, gallery-like space.
Unique Finds and Specialty Shops
Left of the Dial Records
Location: 320 French St, Santa Ana, CA
Vibe: Eclectic, music-driven culture
While primarily a record shop, Left of the Dial also offers a selection of vintage clothing and memorabilia, making it a unique spot for music lovers and collectors alike. The store’s vibrant atmosphere, filled with the sounds of classic and contemporary vinyl, creates a perfect backdrop for browsing through their carefully selected vintage tees, jackets, and music-related fashion items.
Grand Central Art Center
Location: 125 N Broadway, Santa Ana, CA
Vibe: Artistic, community-focused
The Grand Central Art Center, situated in Downtown Santa Ana, is not your typical thrift store but a dynamic space that blends art galleries, studios, and a small selection of retail. Among these are pop-up shops and artisan markets that feature handmade and vintage items, offering a unique opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind art pieces, clothing, and accessories while supporting local artists and creators.
Contemporary Second-Hand and Streetwear
Buffalo Exchange
Location: 215 N Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA
Vibe: Trendy, youthful second-hand
A short drive from Santa Ana, Buffalo Exchange in Fullerton caters to a trendy, fashion-conscious crowd seeking contemporary second-hand and vintage clothing. Known for its eclectic mix of styles and brands, this location is perfect for those looking to refresh their wardrobe with unique, sustainable fashion choices, ranging from streetwear to designer pieces.
Crossroads Trading
Location: 1835 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA
Vibe: Modern, high-quality resale
Just outside Santa Ana, Crossroads Trading in Costa Mesa offers a curated selection of gently used clothing and accessories. Focusing on current trends and quality pieces, Crossroads is a favorite for those in search of contemporary brands and designer labels at affordable prices, all within a clean, organized shopping environment.
Markets and Flea Markets
Golden Years Vintage Market
Location: 2nd Street Promenade, Santa Ana, CA (Seasonal Event)
Vibe: Retro, community gathering
The Golden Years Vintage Market is a seasonal event that transforms Downtown Santa Ana’s 2nd Street Promenade into a bustling marketplace. Featuring a collection of vendors selling vintage clothing, vinyl records, and handmade goods, this market is a celebration of all things retro and a great place to find unique pieces while enjoying live music and local food.