As the demand for sustainable fashion grows, Canberra is stepping up with a thriving secondhand scene. From trendy op shops in Braddon to retro havens in Kingston, the ACT offers endless opportunities to reduce fashion waste while scoring unique finds.
Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or new to eco-conscious shopping, here’s your ultimate guide to Canberra’s best sustainable fashion spots. Vintage Finds in Canberra
Top 10 Thrift Stores in Canberra City
1. Vinnies Canberra City
- Location: 40 Northbourne Ave
- Overview: A charity staple with affordable clothing, books, and homewares. Proceeds support vulnerable communities.
2. Salvos Stores Canberra City
- Location: 15 East Row
- Overview: Known for its rotating inventory of quality secondhand apparel and accessories.
3. Green Chic Collective
- Location: 28 Petrie Plaza
- Overview: Curates pre-loved designer labels and sustainable Australian brands.
4. Lifeline Bookfair & Thrift Shop
- Location: Curtin Place
- Overview: Perfect for book lovers and bargain hunters—clothing, vinyl, and more.
5. The Smith’s Alternative Thrift Corner
- Location: 76 Alinga Street
- Overview: A quirky mix of vintage clothing and retro accessories.
6. Canberra City Care & Share
- Location: 12 Moore Street
- Overview: Focuses on affordable fashion for families, with a $5 rack!
7. Frugii Dessert Laboratory Thrift Pop-Up
- Location: 3/28 Lonsdale Street
- Overview: Combines sweet treats with a small, curated thrift section.
8. Repeat Boutique
- Location: 14 University Ave
- Overview: High-end consignment pieces at a fraction of retail prices.
9. The Trash & Treasure Market (Monthly)
- Location: Jamison Center
- Overview: A treasure trove of clothing, furniture, and collectibles.
10. Red Cross Shop Canberra City
- Location: 20 Garema Place
- Overview: Ethical shopping at its finest—profits fund humanitarian aid.
Top 10 Op Shops in Braddon
1. Brotherhood of St Laurence Braddon
- Location: 27 Lonsdale Street
- Overview: Trendy streetwear and upcycled items in a hip setting.
2. Anglicare Braddon Op Shop
- Location: 15/30 Elouera Street
- Overview: A minimalist’s dream with curated vintage and modern pieces.
3. The Green Shed Underground
- Location: 1/30 Mort Street
- Overview: Quirky finds from retro jackets to handmade jewelry.
4. Marymead Op Shop
- Location: 5/19 Torrens Street
- Overview: Family-friendly spot with toys, books, and affordable fashion.
5. Save the Children Op Shop
- Location: 11 Lonsdale Street
- Overview: Bright, organized, and stocked with on-trend apparel.
6. RSPCA Op Shop Braddon
- Location: 7/25 Lonsdale Street
- Overview: Pet-friendly shopping—profits support animal welfare.
7. The Braddon Vintage Bazaar
- Location: 27 Haig Park Village
- Overview: Pop-up market with retro dresses, denim, and accessories.
8. St Vincent de Paul Braddon
- Location: 9 Mort Street
- Overview: A compact but mighty selection of quality secondhand goods.
9. Karma Space Op Shop
- Location: 12 Elouera Street
- Overview: Focuses on eco-friendly brands and handmade items.
10. The Op Shop Collective
- Location: 22 Lonsdale Street
- Overview: A multi-charity hub with something for every style.
Top 10 Vintage Shops in Kingston Vintage Finds in Canberra
1. The Vintage Canberra
- Location: 43 Eastlake Parade
- Overview: Specializes in 60s–90s fashion, from bohemian dresses to leather jackets.
2. Retro Relapse
- Location: 18 Giles Street
- Overview: A curated mix of retro band tees, vinyl, and statement coats.
3. Fyshwick Fresh Finds (Kingston Outpost)
- Location: 5 Green Square
- Overview: Industrial-chic space with vintage Levi’s and silk scarves.
4. Kingston Old Bus Depot Markets
- Location: 21 Wentworth Ave
- Overview: Weekly market with vintage stalls, handmade goods, and live music.
5. Lennox Gardens Vintage
- Location: 12 Kennedy Street
- Overview: Luxury vintage—think Chanel, Dior, and YSL.
6. The Dusty Attic
- Location: 7/15 Eyre Street
- Overview: Eclectic homewares and 70s-inspired fashion.
7. Hunt & Gather
- Location: 28 Kennedy Street
- Overview: Mid-century modern clothing and accessories.
8. Vintage Vibe Kingston
- Location: 10/34 Giles Street
- Overview: Retro swimwear, Hawaiian shirts, and quirky accessories.
9. The Velvet Underground
- Location: 14 Green Square
- Overview: Gothic and punk-inspired vintage pieces.
10. Ruby’s Retro Room
- Location: 3/25 Eastlake Parade
- Overview: Pastel-themed 50s–80s fashion and tea dresses.
Top 10 Secondhand Markets in Canberra
1. The Green Shed Markets
- Location: Canberra Railway Station
- Overview: Daily market for budget-friendly clothing and household items.
2. Trash & Treasure Market
- Location: Jamison Center, Belconnen
- Overview: Monthly mega-market with vintage gems and handmade crafts.
3. Old Bus Depot Markets
- Location: Kingston
- Overview: Sustainable fashion stalls, upcycled goods, and local artisans.
4. Capital Region Farmers Market
- Location: Exhibition Park
- Overview: While food-focused, it includes eco-conscious clothing vendors.
5. Gorman House Markets
- Location: Braddon
- Overview: Monthly market with vintage fashion and indie designers.
6. Southside Farmers Market
- Location: Phillip
- Overview: Secondhand stalls nestled among fresh produce.
7. Handmade Market Canberra
- Location: EPIC
- Overview: Features pre-loved fashion alongside handmade items.
8. Tuggeranong Homestead Markets
- Location: Richardson
- Overview: Family-friendly market with retro clothing and toys.
9. Wanniassa Hills Markets
- Location: Erindale College
- Overview: Affordable secondhand fashion and accessories.
10. Canberra Craft & Quilt Fair (Seasonal)
- Location: Exhibition Park
- Overview: Includes vintage fabric stalls and upcycled fashion.
Why Choose Sustainable Fashion in ACT?
By shopping secondhand, you’re reducing textile waste, supporting charities, and discovering one-of-a-kind pieces. Canberra’s thrift scene is a goldmine for eco-conscious shoppers—whether you’re revamping your wardrobe or hunting for retro décor.
Pro Tips for Thrifting in Canberra:
- Visit markets early for the best picks.
- Follow stores on social media for flash sales.
- Donate unwanted items to keep the cycle going!
Join Canberra’s sustainable fashion movement and prove that style doesn’t have to cost the earth. Happy thrifting!
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