Thrift Shopping in Singapore: The Latest Lifestyle Hack
If you’ve been wanting to dip your toes into thrift shopping or anything vintage, this read might be for you.
I vividly remember in the early 2010s, when spikes, skinny jeans and floral crowns were symbols of a fashionable trendsetter. This was alongside my teen years where I’d claim to have my first ‘fashion awakening’, only to cringe at the mere recollection of my outfit choices in the years to come. YouTube was my go-to fashion inspiration, and it was also the platform where I chanced upon the fashion vlogger, Jenn Im. Then, she still went by the username Clothesencounters. I remember watching her hauls and look books, where she shared styling tips and outfit ideas. Occasionally, certain pieces will catch my eye, but they were often thrifted or vintage finds. Separated by the North Pacific Ocean, there was no way I could get my hands on them. As a developing teen with occasional melodramatic tendencies, this impossibility just made me want to experience thrifting more.
When I had the opportunity to travel, I started to work second-hand shops into my itinerary. Each location afforded entirely different styles, the thrill of discovering new styles and exclusive pieces increased my love for thrifting. Hence, the only thing consistent with my style is that it is constantly evolving. What I’d consider is my mood; how I’m feeling like; which vibe I’m trying to emulate; and where I’m heading.
The Ironic Addictive Quality of Thrift-Shopping
“I love that exhilaration when I manage to find a one-of-a-kind piece that fits me like a glove. Though you may not always find something perfect, the search is what keeps me coming back!”
Claire, 25, a thrifting enthusiast
Although getting your hands on the next new thing might seem enticing and a way simpler way to shop, its rhythmic familiarity starts to fade. Needless to say, the increasing emphasis and reporting of the ills of fast fashion also reinforces the benefits of shopping second-hand. Personally, one of the best parts about thrifting is the fact that you are getting a quality piece of clothing without the guilt associated with impulse buys and fast fashion consumption. By donning it, you inadvertently breathe new life into a once seemingly maxed out piece.
Such sentiments are shared by Claire, 25, a thrifting enthusiast. “I love that exhilaration when I find a one-of-a-kind piece that fits me like a glove. Though you may not always find something perfect, the search is what keeps me coming back!” She also recommends shoppers place a greater emphasis on the fit and material than its brand as “discovering a quality piece from a discontinued brand is way more satisfying than the predictable fits from fast-fashion labels.”
My Thrifting Experience for Vintage Clothing
As the prices of these pre-loved pieces are often significantly marked down, we are able to get cute fits without breaking the bank. You know you have struck gold when you find vintage designer pieces at a steep discount. Once, I got my hands on a Diane Von Furstenberg for less than $20 after some intense digging.
Vintage and secondhand pieces are often one-offs and you know to expect the unexpected. That builds up an anticipation each time you sift through the racks. Personally, nothing beats the tingle you get after picking out the perfect piece. These vintage fits also range widely in quality, brands, and pricing. Therefore, if you do not mind getting your hands dirty, you’d probably chance upon something unique. Additionally, if luxury brands are on your radar, you might surprise yourself with a deal. It is also a great strategy to adopt when you’re trying to change up your style, without having to invest in a brand new wardrobe.
Tips For Anyone Who Needs A Little Push In Finding Vintage Clothing
Instead of exercising regularly, thrift and vintage stores became my go-to destinations when I needed to get my endorphin fix. Though it may seem intimidating at first, it can be easily overcome if you plan your shopping strategically. For anyone interested in dabbling in the thrifting world, here are some tips that may work for you:
1. Start with Your Parents’ Wardrobe
Undoubtedly, the easiest way to dabble into thrifting may be simply digging through your parents’ old clothes. Yes, you heard me right, your parents – Mom and Dad. If your mom is anything like mine, you’d easily find pieces from the 80s and 90s (that are hot right now) which you can ‘borrow’ to change up your style. While your Dad may be able to offer you a selection of oversized basics, the perfect way to amp up your streetwear game.
2. Dabble in Online Marketplaces
If your sizes are not similar, fret not, you often don’t have to venture far to get hold of vintage and pre-loved pieces. Online marketplaces like Carousell, Refash, and The Kint Story may be the perfect starting point. You can also find a thriving vintage and thrifting community on Instagram.
3. Physical Thrift Stores With a Larger Vintage Selection
Alternatively, if you prefer sifting through large piles of clothing, feeling their textures and testing how they fit, physical stores might be best suited for you. (In-person thrifting is definitely my favourite!)
Some local thrift stores that may be worth checking out include:
MINDS stands for the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore, a social enterprise that aims to empower adults with intellectual disabilities through vocational training and work engagement opportunities.
At the MINDS Shop, trainees get pre-vocational training in retail and customer service. For those seeking a thrifting adventure, this is a bargain hunter’s paradise, with 4 locations to choose from and a wide selection of handpicked second-hand goods.
Situated at Waterloo Street, New2U is frequented by neighbouring art school students. When I checked it out, I noticed the shop sells pre-loved clothing, accessories and other knick knacks, with prices starting from as low as S$1.00!
It is managed entirely by volunteers and all proceeds from the store go towards the Star Shelter and the various Singapore Council of Women’s Organisation (SCWO), SCWO Initiatives. Proceeds from the store go towards the Star Shelter and the various SCWO Initiatives.
For those seeking out high fashion goodies, A Vintage Tale might satisfy those desires. Nestled along Joo Chiat Road, this little gem stocks vintage pieces from the 50’s to the 90’s, curated from all over the world.
Practice Makes Perfect
1. Searching for Vintage-wear With A Purpose
If you get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of secondhand goods, place specific items on your agenda or decide the specific clothing pieces you are looking for beforehand, for example, a brown moto leather jacket. This makes shopping a straightforward task for you. Just head straight to the outerwear section and take your pick.
2. Diving in Head First
However, if like me, you prefer the thrill and surprise, diving in head first might be the right move. There’s no need for a plan, just browse and you might find something positively unexpected.
If you’ve been wanting to experiment with vintage clothing or thrifting, take this as a sign to start dabbling, as it might be for you! When you do purchase a pre-loved item, you’re extending its lifespan and lowering its carbon footprint as well. Not only is it a conscious attempt to live more sustainably, it is a rare activity that rewards the fickle-minded.