7 BEST UNCURATED THRIFT SHOPS IN AND AROUND BOSTON
That’s right, here’s the insider’s scoop on some of the best un-curated gems around Boston. We love all the curated stuff. Really, we do. But man, life is expensive. In this list, you’ll find some of the best places I’ve been thrifting that have also been kind to my bank account. Maybe you already know these places. Maybe you don’t. In any case, let this be your roadmap for your next shopping spree.
1. The Garment District By The Pound (Cambridge)
Starting off strong with Cambridge! Did you hear that? $2 a pound? No way… Make sure to come prepared mentally to get elbow deep in some piles and to leave with a full bag of treasure. Bring an extra snack, cause once you’re there, it’s time to lock in. On top of being a great place to find some of your favorite new pieces, it is also a great place to hang with your friends. Maybe you’ll even make some. Or some enemies who are trying to snag the same vintage sweaters as you. Either way, you will not be able to leave empty handed.
2. Goodwill Memorial (Roxbury)
The Goodwills in Cambridge and Allston are great, don’t get me wrong. But this place has got something really special to it. Top tier items are hanging left and right, just waiting for you to grab them. I actually just recently stumbled upon some Calvin Klein jeans sent from heaven over there. It’s a massive building too, so no need to worry about a shortage of gems. And no need to get competitive with your fellow thrifters.
3. Diversity Consignment Swap Room (Jamaica Plain)
Diversity Consignment is in itself curated. However, I felt a certain need to include this because of the Swap Room situation. If you go to the store, you can start up your very own swapping subscription. That’s right, for $15 a month, you can bring an unlimited amount of clothes, which will then be added to your account as swap credit. You can then exchange a maximum of 15 items a week (that’s a whopping 60 pieces a month). This is such a good way to keep your wardrobe functional and fresh while keeping your spending at an all time low. Think of all the different personas you could embody without acquiring exorbitant amounts of clothes, which inevitably become a part of the graveyard of garments you keep at the bottom of your closet.
4. Savers (Norwood & Roxbury)
What a classic. I furnished my new place thanks to this Savers. And found my favorite red sweater. I’m actually typing on my $7 desk right now. It’s a bit of a drive to get there, but believe me, this place goes above and beyond. Additionally, it is quite a bit cheaper than any Goodwill I’ve ever been to.
5. Global Thrift (Waltham)
Hop on that commuter line, baby! Just a few minutes away from the train station is your very own Global Thrift, right there on Moody St. I went straight from the shop to Cafe on the Common to reward myself for my cheap finds (counterintuitive, I know). Also, Waltham is underrated. Get yourself over to the Global Thrift. Stat. They have an insane selection of weird bowls and mugs too, which we all know you’re itching to add to your ever growing collection.
6. Urban Renewals (Roslindale)
Don’t even get me STARTED. You will find everything you need and more here. Winter jackets? Score. Silverware? Yep, you’re all set. Another trinket to add to your shelf? SAY LESS. Not a single place compares to the prices here. A serious buck for your bank. Just go.
7. Beverly Bootstraps (Beverly)
Last but not least, Beverly Bootstraps. We know you want to go on a drive and leave the city for a bit. You could even make a pit stop in Salem before reaching this place. If there’s one thing this place isn’t lacking, it’s a pop of color. It is nothing short of dazzling and filled to the brim with the cutest of items. Whether it be something to zhuzh up your home, a bundle of accessories, or a new color to add to your closet, this is the place to be.
I bet you are simply exhausted after such a day of thrifting, phewie! But your wallet surely isn’t. And just think about the countless compliments you’ll be getting in no time... You can even tell people you stumbled upon these locations yourself, we won’t judge. However, you should let us know if we’re missing any essential uncurated thrift gems. Maybe we’ll even get to make a part 2 with all of your suggestions. Peace and love to you and your thrifts. Mwah.
