Five Syracuse Thrift Stores to Explore this Fall
design: Ryan Toussaint
Whether you're a thrifting pro or just getting started, these Syracuse spots promise a fun and stylish experience.
by Shayla Ismael ★ OCTOBER 21, 2024
In 2024, sustainable fashion is more than just a trend. For many, shopping second-hand is now the primary way they spruce up their wardrobe. The rush of finding a one-of-a-kind vintage piece at a low price is a feeling hard to replicate with shopping off-the-rack in department stores. To amplify my fall wardrobe, I explored five hidden thrift gems in Syracuse that could brighten up my closet while also sticking to sustainable fashion practices.
First on the list, tucked away right on Westcott, is the holy grail—the Cluttered Closet. The store is a haven of fur coats, sparkling jewelry, funky shoes, endless antiques, and even a boa section. My favorite piece that I found here was a leopard fur floor-length coat priced at $25.
Next on the list, we head downtown to the Cherry Pit Collective, a highly-curated selection of women’s clothing in all sizes. Each time I have shopped here, I have found unique pieces at very reasonable prices, ranging from $10 to $45. Their jacket selection is especially hard to beat. I have found detailed denim, corduroy, and fur jackets.
Right next door to the Cherry Pit Collective is a newcomer to the Syracuse thrifting scene– Rat Girl Vintage. After opening last spring, this store distinguished itself with a distinctive style—the owner describes the store on Instagram as a place that blends “y2k flair with a touch of true vintage.” Rat Girl Vintage is a treasure trove for those on the hunt for high-end vintage finds. Their collection includes coveted pieces such as Dolce and Gabbana tracksuits, Burberry sweaters, and Prada heels, catering to shoppers who love designer labels and vintage style. It is a great place to find a last-minute date night dress as the store is filled with slip dresses.
Bourne Vintage, previously a vendor at the vintage yard sale on Madison Ave, is now a permanent thrifting spot in Syracuse, with a new physical storefront located at 2830 Lemoyne Ave. This shop is a hotspot for street style lovers, offering a wealth of vintage bomber jackets and graphic tees. Although it leans slightly towards men’s fashion, its treasures are universally appealing, making it a fantastic find for anyone looking to find more unisex pieces.
Lastly, and probably the oldest one on this list, since 1991 is the Syracuse Antiques Exchange. Just an eight minute drive from campus, find yourself immersed in four floors of antiques and vintage items. There is a wide variety of trinkets, estate jewelry, clothing, and other decorative arts, all carefully curated by over seventy different dealers. This could easily be a one-and-done stop when looking for an afternoon activity. My friends and I would spend hours looking at every piece and nick-nack. The best part is that with every purchase you are supporting a local vendor, so you don’t have to feel bad about treating yourself to a new necklace.
Whether you're a seasoned thrifter or new to the game, these hidden gems in Syracuse are sure to add a bit of adventure and a whole lot of style to your shopping excursions.