As awareness grows around fast fashion’s environmental cost, Halifax’s thrift and vintage scene is booming. Choosing secondhand fashion is not only wallet-friendly, it’s a powerful act of sustainability. Thrifting keeps clothes out of landfills, supports local businesses, and allows you to express yourself through one-of-a-kind finds. Here are 10 standout shops where conscious style meets community values.
With two locations, 1595 Dresden Row, Halifax, and 942 Cole Harbour Rd., Dartmouth, Venture Thrift is a nonprofit boutique offering affordable clothing (mostly under $30). Proceeds support employment training for individuals facing barriers to work. The racks lean casual and classic; expect basics, business casual, and comfy wardrobe staples. Great for building a capsule wardrobe on a budget.
Open Mon.–Sat. 10 am–5 pm, closed Sun.
Located at 1549 Barrington St. and 1869 Upper Water St., KingsPIER is a luxury vintage shop specializing in high-end outerwear, leather, furs, and accessories. This is where you go for investment pieces. The aesthetic is refined and rugged—think 1940s workwear, cowboy boots, military coats, and timeless wool knits. Perfect for the heritage menswear fan or anyone after a lasting statement piece.
Open Mon.–Fri. 12–6 pm, Sat. 11am–6pm, Sun. 12–5pm.
This two-storey gem at 1711 Barrington St. is packed with colourful, affordable clothing, from funky denim to retro band tees. A bold and playful selection—vibrant Y2K crop tops, ’90s flannels, quirky jumpsuits, and festival-ready pieces. The pieces here are great for eclectic personal style and ideal for students and creative dressers.
Open Tue.–Sun. 1 am–7pm, closed Mon.
At 1531 Grafton St., Elsie’s offers two floors of consignment and vintage clothing for men and women. Think timeless staples and hidden gems. Expect a blend of vintage elegance and everyday wear—chic blazers, flowing skirts, knitwear, and the occasional designer surprise. Their window displays are always a vibe.
Open Mon.–Sat. 11am–6 pm, Sun. 12–5pm.
5. Brilliant Clothing Boutique
Located at 1539 Birmingham St., Brilliant specializes in women’s contemporary consignment. Their clean, curated selection features designer bags, workwear, and dresses. The aesthetic is modern, feminine, and elevated—think neutrals, flowy fabrics, smart tailoring, and quality brands like Aritzia and Club Monaco. Great for professionals and fashion minimalists.
Open Tue. 10am–5pm, Wed.–Fri. 10am–6pm, Sat. 10am–5pm, closed Sun.–Mon.
Situated at 1535 Dresden Row, this sleek boutique focuses on high-end consignment dresses, coats, handbags, and shoes, great for formalwear or statement pieces. Expect a polished, elegant aesthetic—gowns, structured blazers, cocktail dresses, and chic accessories. Perfect for weddings, upscale events, or just dressing like every day is a fashion show.
Open Tue.–Sat. 10am–6pm, closed Sun.–Mon.
A North End staple at 5687 Charles St., Penelope’s blends vintage clothing with mid-century housewares and quirky upcycled finds. The vibe is artsy, curated, and warm—think earth tones, prairie dresses, cozy sweaters, and linen separates. The shop is also a haven for lovers of nostalgic kitchenware and vinyl.
Open Mon.–Fri. 11am–5:30pm, Sat. 10am–5pm, Sun 12–4pm.
8. Lost & Found
Located at 2383 Agricola St., Lost & Found mixes vintage streetwear with handmade goods and local art. Expect gender-neutral racks and a welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find retro denim, graphic sweatshirts, painter’s jackets, and utilitarian pieces with personality. The shop feels like a wearable art gallery.
Open Tue.–Sat. 12–6pm, Sun. 12–5pm, closed Mon.
9. Put Me On
A luxury consignment boutique on Agricola Street, Put Me On features brands like Chanel, Vince, and Rag & Bone at discounted prices. Polished, urban, and upscale—expect high-end denim, silk blouses, leather bags, and blazers. It’s where luxury meets local.
Open Mon.–Sat. 11am–5pm, closed Sun.
10. Shotgun Vintage
Tucked inside 5194 Blowers Street, Shotgun Vintage is known for its gender-inclusive racks and well-curated vintage from the ’70s to early 2000s. Think western shirts, vintage Levi’s, silk cowboy scarves, graphic tees, and denim jackets with edge. A total haven for queer fashionistas, stylists, and vintage nerds.
Open Sun.–Wed. 12–5pm, Thurs.-Sat, 12-6pm
Whether you’re hunting for a $5 treasure or a timeless designer piece, Halifax’s thrift and vintage shops offer more than fashion—they’re hubs of creativity, sustainability, and community. Each store on this list has a distinct vibe, so there’s something for everyone. So skip the fast fashion, and thrift your way through Halifax. You’ll find clothes that matter, stories that inspire, and style that sticks.
This article appears in Jul 1-31, 2025.