Thrift shops often have a reputation for being dark, dreary places filled with clothes from your grandparents’ past. While this statement definitely remains true for some of the thrift shops out there, there are many thrift and vintage shops in Eugene where fashion-forward people can go to revamp and add to their wardrobe.
With the high price of tuition and required books, most college students don’t live lavish lives. Therefore, they cannot typically spend massive amounts of money on the latest fashion, making thrifting a must.
Thrift shops don’t just allow you to shop on a budget. They also allow you to get creative. Because the majority of the clothing is secondhand, you can purchase one-of-a-kind pieces that differ from typical department store finds and help you develop a unique style.
Moving through a thrift shop resembles a treasure hunt, especially when it comes to Eugene thrift shops, where you never know what you might find. Hidden gems can be found buried away in a corner — it just takes some time and patience to find them. Many thrift shops around Eugene not only specialize in clothing, but carry jewelry and home goods as well.
“Some of my favorite clothing items have come from thrift shops,” said Emma Forslund, a student at the University of Oregon who is an avid shopper at Eugene Jeans, a thrift shop located on 132 E. 13th Ave.
Some well-recognized thrift shops around town include: Redoux Parlour, Deluxe and Kitsch-22. Each specialize in both men’s and women’s vintage secondhand clothing.
“We are a little more fashion forward and aim to attract people looking for something more special than just your basics,” Redoux Parlor owner Laura Lee said. The shop also carries clothing from local Eugene designers.
Kitsch-22, located on 1022 Willamette St., aims to attract the college-aged customer, as well as “young, quirky professionals,” according to store owner Rebecca Welton.
The majority of the clothes in thrift shops come from people bringing in and selling clothes. However, many stores also have buyers who look for unique finds at places like estate sales.
“Thrift shopping is 75 percent luck and 25 percent patience,” UO senior Ellie Richardson said.