The Tik Tok personalities of today are saying it, the young and stylish have been doing it for years, the environmentally-conscious too are preaching: it’s never been a better time to support slow fashion and to get thrifting. Luckily, we live in a city overflowing with high-quality, previously-loved clothing that will keep your closet consciously cool.
Cape Town is home to a variety of second-hand shops, ranging from quirky vintage boutiques to large charity stores, each with its own unique charm. In fact the thriving second-hand shopping scene has become synonymous with the city’s creative spirit, as many shops feature carefully curated collections, allowing shoppers to find rare, one-of-a-kind treasures. Thrift shopping is not only about finding great deals but also about supporting local businesses and charitable causes. It’s a fantastic way to embrace sustainable fashion, reduce waste, and contribute to a circular economy, all while discovering stylish pieces that tell a story.
Vintage With Love
Step into a curated world of timeless fashion and style with Vintage with Love. This popular thrift boutique offers a carefully selected collection of pre-loved clothing, ranging from retro dresses and unique jackets to classic accessories and shoes. The store also takes part in charity work by raising funds to contribute towards the support of numerous literacy programmes that build the community.
So whether you’re after a vintage statement piece or simply looking to refresh your wardrobe with something special, Vintage with Love offers a mix of styles that span decades all while helping to support the education of future South African leaders.
Where: 46A Canterbury St, District Six, Cape Town
When: Mon: 9am to 2pm | Tue, Wed, Fri: 10am to 4pm | Thurs: 10am to 6pm | Sat: 10am to 2pm
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Afraid of Mice
Afraid of Mice is a quirky and beloved boutique in Cape Town, known for its eclectic range of clothing, accessories, and lifestyle items. Located in the heart of the city, this store stands out for its unique mix of modern fashion with a playful twist, offering everything from trendy apparel to vintage high end clothing and accessories.
The shop’s name itself sparks curiosity and reflects the fun, offbeat nature of the items on display. The store offers a sustainable approach to fashion where customers are free to shop pre-loved luxury apparel and accessories from brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Fendi and more. Afraid of Mice’s welcoming atmosphere makes the store a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.
Where: 99 Harrington St, District Six, Cape Town
When: Mon – Fri: 10am to 5.30pm | Sat: 10.30am to 3.30pm
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Nevernew
Established in mid-2014, Nevernew is one of Observatory’s staple vintage stores. It is stuffed with a vast range of second-hand and affordable retro clothing items, a selection of shoes, and accessories like belts and bags on offer too. Nevernew’s diverse closet also means that you can get your hands on new band t-shirts and merchandise, hats, sunglasses, and some sterling silver jewellery.
They also offer a range of locally-made festival wear to celebrate at your next big night (or day) out. It’s the perfect place to shop for your next themed event. With new stock coming in daily, the older stock gets marked down regularly. Some say that ‘good work isn’t cheap’, but Nevernew assures that you can always put your eye on a great bargain with some browsing time.
Where: 15b Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
When: Mon – Sat, 10am to 6pm; Sun, 11am to 5pm
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Rummage Preloved
Every item has its own story, making the shopping experience feel personal and rewarding. Not to mention the wonderful added benefit of contributing to a more sustainable world by reducing waste and supporting local communities. Rummage Pre-Loved is the perfect destination for those who love a great deal and appreciate the charm of items with history.
Where: Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie, Cape Town
When: Mon – Sun, 9am to 5pm
Secondhand Rose
Secondhand Rose is a popular thrift store located in the Mother City. Like the name suggests, the store offers a wide selection of stylish secondhand fashion items that can spice up any wardrobe. The store is particularly well-known among those looking for fashion with character, as well as individuals who embrace sustainability by opting for pre-owned items.
The store’s welcoming and quirky vibe makes it a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike, seeking not just bargains but also a chance to discover hidden gems that reflect personal style and eco-conscious values. Secondhand Rose is a go-to destination for those who love thrifting and appreciate the charm of secondhand shopping.
Where: Shop 8, Grove on the Square, Warwick St, Claremont, Cape Town
When: Mon – Fri 9.30am to 5pm | Sat 9.30am to 1.30pm
Chic Mamas Do Care
Shopping at Chic Mamas Do Care is more than just a shopping trip; it’s a heart-warming experience that supports both your style and the community. With stores in both Wynberg and Hout Bay, customers are free to access the stunning selection of pre-loved clothing items from anywhere they wish. As you browse, you’ll feel the warmth and care that goes into every item, knowing that the proceeds go directly to supporting educational projects within underprivileged areas.
The store also appreciates and accepts the donation of good quality, pre-loved items that are no longer being used. And if you want to take your thrift shopping to another level, then you might want take part in the store’s regular Swap4Charity initiative that rewards you with credits in the form of spendable tokens for your donations. It’s a win win for everybody at Chic Mamas Do Care as every purchase feels like a small act of love, helping to create a brighter future for the youth of South Africa.
Where: 70 Constantia Main Rd, Wynberg, Cape Town
When: Mon – Fri 10am to 4pm | Sat 10am to 2pm
See more eco-friendly outlets in Cape Town
