Once dismissed as a niche habit, thrifting in Singapore has evolved into something far more powerful: a statement of values, a celebration of creativity, and a joyful act of conscious living.
In a world increasingly obsessed with fast fashion hauls and fleeting trends, a quiet rebellion is taking root. It's driven not just by Gen Z idealism or TikTok aesthetics (though they certainly play a role), but by a growing number of discerning shoppers who crave authenticity, sustainability, and storytelling in their clothing.
Why the Thrifting Boom Now?
Yes, affordability is part of the appeal. But today's thrift enthusiasts are not just bargain hunters; they are eco-warriors, nostalgia seekers, and culture curators. Rising climate anxiety, the backlash against overconsumption, and a hunger for individuality are rewriting the rules of style.
When you thrift, you're not just buying clothes. You're rewriting their stories. You're extending lifecycles. You're making a quiet but radical statement: that fashion can be personal, soulful, and sustainable.
Who's Powering the Movement?
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Gen Z and Millennials: Digital natives who embrace slow fashion and social causes, seeing thrifting as both a lifestyle and an identity.
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Affluent Shoppers: Yes, even the well-heeled are turning to thrifting, not out of necessity, but out of value-driven choice. Premium vintage pieces and archival finds are hotter than ever.
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Culture Lovers: Those who view clothing as an art form, seeking one-of-a-kind pieces that tell richer stories than any mass-produced brand ever could.
Why You Should Start Thrifting
Because it's no longer about "second-hand." It's about second chances: for pre-loved items, for the planet, and for a more thoughtful kind of consumerism. It's about reconnecting with the joy of discovery,finding that perfectly worn-in denim jacket or a vintage designer dress that feels like it was waiting just for you.
How to Thrift in a Fun, Meaningful Way
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Come with an open heart, not a fixed list. Great thrift finds often happen when you're least expecting them.
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Learn the stories. Ask shop owners, read the tags, and explore the histories behind vintage brands.
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Celebrate imperfections. A tiny stain, a patch, or a frayed edge adds character.
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Support causes, not just closets. Many thrift shops fund important social missions—shop with purpose.
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Bring friends. Turn thrifting into a playful treasure hunt. Share stories behind your finds.
Where to Begin: A Curated Guide to Singapore's Thrift Scene
|
Shop Name |
Address |
Why you should be there |
Price range |
|
|
A Second Series |
304 Orchard road, Lucky Plaza, #04-79, #B1-78, #02-69 |
High-style, editorial-feel preloved fashion |
$15–$60+ |
|
|
Bhabie Market |
1 Queensway, Queensway Shopping Centre, #02-08 |
Playful Y2K fashion reimagined. |
~$10–$30 |
|
|
Kaeru Thrift |
19 Haji Lane, #02-01 |
Japanese-inspired streetwear finds. |
~$10–$30 |
|
|
LPB Thrift |
Lucky Plaza, 304 Orchard Road, #06-14 |
Ultra budget-friendly treasures. |
$1–$10 |
|
|
NearesTTen |
57A Pagoda Street, Level 2 256A South Bridge Road, Level 2 |
Y2K fashion heaven with curated vintage pieces. |
$10–$40 |
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|
New2U Thrift Shop |
96 Waterloo Street |
Supports women and girls in need via SCWO. |
$1–$20 |
|
|
Nightingale Thrift |
1 Queensway, Queensway Shopping Centre, #03-05 |
Romantic, aesthetic slow fashion curated drops. |
~$8–$25 |
|
|
Refash |
Multiple Outlets |
Mass resale of stylish, curated womens wear. |
$5–$30+ |
|
|
Tasstore |
Queensway Shopping Centre, #01-08 |
Premium reworked sportswear and branded vintage fashion. |
$5–$30+ |
|
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The Barn |
11 East Coast Rd, #01-11/12, The Odeon Katong Blk 591A, Ang Mo Kio St 51, #01-35 27 Penjuru Walk, #01-01 |
Volunteer-run, helping low-income families with every purchase. |
$2–$25 |
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|
The Fashion Pulpit |
The OCBC Centre, 65 Chulia Street #01-01 |
Singapore's first fashion swap concept—earn swap credits or buy direct. |
$10–$60 |
|
|
Therapist Thrift Shop |
Thomson V Two, 11 Sin Ming Road, #B3-09 |
Shop to fund wellness and mental health programs. |
Fill-a-bag for $10; individual items vary. |
|
|
Upstairs Garments |
75B Tanjong Pagar Road |
Archival fashion and rare designer resale. |
$100–$200+ |
|
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WEARE. |
Queensway Shopping Centre, #03-05A |
Inclusive pricing and big discovery bins—perfect for treasure hunters. |
$5–$40 |
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|
re.drmg |
39 Haji Lane |
Handmade, Japanese-influenced vintage curation. |
$5–$45 |
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|
2nd Street Singapore |
#B1-23 to 34, 313 Orchard Road |
Part of Japan's largest thrift chain; provides a clean, air-conditioned shopping environment with spacious fitting rooms, accepts secondhand items for resale. |
$5–$200+ |
|
|
Two Worlds |
Curated Thrift Store: 19 Jalan Pisang Thrift & Consignment: 390 Victoria Street, #02-31 & #02-07, Golden Landmark Shopping Complex |
Features a 2.5-storey layout, collaborates with various vendors, offering a diverse range of products including jewellery and hair dyes. |
$10–$30 |
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|
Thrifted Clicks |
Pop-up locations |
Known for pop-up events at central locations; provides high-quality, tested vintage cameras with accessories; caters to photography enthusiasts seeking retro aesthetics |
$180+ |
In the end, thrifting isn't about jumping on a trend. It's about participating in a movement. One that reclaims fashion, community, and culture. One beautiful, pre-loved find at a time.
Welcome to The Market Society. Where every story matters. Including yours.