10 Canadian Online Thrift Shops
I've always been an avid thrift shopper. A trip to Value Village or a local secondhand shop is a full-on event that could last hours. Shopping truly is my cardio, because I could walk around flipping through racks until my knees buckle. The thrill of finding something unexpected, nostalgic or one-of-a-kind never gets old, and I find myself craving it. Though aside from the uniqueness factor, I've discovered it takes less of a toll on my wallet, and the environment, than a fast-fashion haul would. It's truly a win-win-win situation for me.
Unfortunately the pandemic put a pause on my in-store treasure hunting, and I underestimated just how long I'd have to go without it. Two lockdowns later, I learned just how much I relied on a thrift haul to stock my closet (or just to simply recharge my serotonin levels).
So like many others, I pivoted my shopping habits to the online world and discovered a plethora of secondhand resellers at my fingertips.
While Ontario (and many other Provinces) have since permitted in-store shopping to resume, perhaps you're still a bit hesitant to step foot into a shop. Or maybe you just don't have the desire to dig through hangers. Whichever the case may be, I've racked up a list of online thrift shops for you to peruse at your pleasure!
Instagram: @chubbyfemthrift Location: Edmonton, Alberta
London & Spencer are the incredible pair behind this size & gender inclusive boutique. They offer thrifted items in sizes L to 6X, all at incredibly affordable prices. They even have a collection of Chubby Fem Originals, which features Spencer's queer & body positive artwork on clothing, stickers and more!
Instagram: @theboyfriends_closet Location: London, Ontario
My undying love for vintage graphic tees led me to this boutique, and you best believe I wanted to load up my online cart when I found it. From bands to beers, this shop has every type of tee you can dream of!
Instagram: @shopdanana Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
I always appreciate a shop that frees itself from gender norms, but that's not the only reason why DANANA quickly won my heart. This non-binary friendly shop features a vibrant mix of eclectic vintage pieces like quirky embroidered sweaters, and western fringed button-ups.
Instagram: @citizenvintage Location: Montreal, Quebec
You know those quintessential cool pieces that makes everyone ask, "Where did you get that?!" This is where you find them.
Shop their coveted vintage collection, and check out Studio Citizen for upcycled gems and original designs.
Instagram: @weftandwhorlvintage Location: Ottawa, Ontario
Trendy & timeless seem like two very different ends of the fashion spectrum, yet the pieces found in Weft & Whorl’s collection coexist beautifully between these realms. There’s something so classic about these minimalistic ‘90s camisoles & sundresses. It’s all very ‘Rachel Green in the early seasons of Friends’, and I’m so here for it.
(Update: this shop has rebranded)
Wyatt House Design Co
Instagram: @wyatthousedesignco Location: Ottawa, Ontario
This line is giving secondhand treasures new life, in a fun and unexpected way. Designer Hailey upcycles and designs unique pieces from vintage textiles like the iconic ‘Shot Girl Summer Dress’, which I hope to add to my own closet soon!
Update: Shop is currently on hiatus.
Instagram: @hellomoonvintage Location: Ottawa, Ontario
If you're looking to add some ethereal, whimsical or just downright dreamy pieces to your wardrobe, this is the shop for you! Kadeeshia restocks her webstore every Tuesday at 7pm EST, so set your alarms because her pieces always flies off the online shelves!
Update: This shop has closed since the original publish date.
Instagram: @shoptakecare Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
I’m particularly fond of consignment shops because of the genuine mix of clothing & accessories you’ll find. Shop Take Care features a beautifully curated arrangement with inclusivity always at the top of mind. They also carry their own handmade line of clothing. House Ghost.
Update: Shop has closed since original publish date.
Venus Vintage
Instagram: @venusvintage.ca Location: Hull, Quebec
This Queer-owned vintage boutique specializes in classic staples & super-fun prints from the 1970's to the 2000's. If you like an element of surprise, they also offer curated boxes in themes like 'Grandma Core' & 'Funky 80's'.
Update: Shop has closed since original publish date.
Instagram: @babysbasement Location: Oshawa, Ontario
Be still my Y2K-obsessed heart! This shop is like being able to raid the closet of that cool babysitter you grew up with. Trust me, the nostalgia is palpable when you see their graphic tee & denim lineup.