11 Best Thrift Stores in Chicago for Secondhand Scores

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deep-dish pizza, breathtaking architecture, and some of the country's most loyal sports fans, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit Chicago.

Not only is the city a top tourist destination, it’s also a great city for thrifting. The best thrift stores in Chicago are stocked with deals and pre-loved gems that can add a unique flare to your wardrobe.

Not only is scouring secondhand shops a great way to level up your wardrobe and home decor, it's also a sustainable way to shop. The fashion industry is responsible for

20% of all industrial water pollution and copious

carbon emissions, all while supplying clothes that—more likely than not—are destined for the

landfill. The same issue applies to furniture, making

sourcing home items secondhand an eco-minded feat. Plus, bargains!

If you find yourself in the Windy City with some time to spare and a yearning for vintage, we've got you covered. Read on for the 11 best thrift stores in Chicago.

Location: 2875 N Milwaukee Ave.

Monarch Thrift Shop serves up style with a purpose. The store works with

One Heart One Soul and the

Avondale Restorative Justice Community Court to combat youth homelessness, promote employment skills, and more—all while selling some covetable used clothing.

Location: 5066 N Lincoln Ave.

It's all in the name: Family Tree Resale has items for the entire family. Hunt for toys, kid's clothing, home goods, and more, all at steeply discounted prices.

Photo: Mr. & Mrs. DIGZ/

@mrandmrsdigz

Location: 1770 W Berteau Ave. Suite 205

Curate your collection of designer goods—or offload those that you're ready to part ways with—at Mr. & Mrs. DIGZ. The consignment shop features luxury consignments, new apparel, and handmade goods from local artists and designers. 

Location: 1545 N Wells St.

This resale boutique offers

consignment, just-like-new pieces at a lower-than-expected price point. 100% of the profits from Mercy Beaucoup benefit Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, supporting kids in crisis.

Location: 3020 N Lincon Ave.; 5404 N. Clark St.; 217 Harrison St.

The Brown Elephant houses everything, from memorable vintage pieces to furniture worthy of an interior makeover.

With three locations around Chicago, proceeds from Brown Elephant support LGBTQ+ healthcare and funding for the underinsured via

Howard Brown Health.

Location: 2545 West North Ave.

For the best in vintage menswear, head to Richard's Fabulous Finds. The store highlights the craftsmanship of a "bygone era," and you can count on founder Richard Biasi to help you in curating a perfect throwback look.

Location: 1219 W 18th St,

This cultish shop is a must-visit for vintage lovers. With a staff comprised of era enthusiasts, pieces spanning decades and from all over the world, and even an online storefront, Knee Deep will have you, well, knee-deep in fashion.

Location: 2711 N Clark St.

This nationally-located store has been around since the ‘90s and has plenty of gently used gems to offer. Shop brand names like J.Crew, Reformation, and Rag & Bone, along with vintage pieces like leather jackets, faux fur, and loafers.

Location: 5252 N Clark St.

Buffalo Exchange boasts a curated mix of modern brands and vintage clothing, accessories, and shoes. All of their items are handpicked by the staff and available at oh-so-low prices.

Location:  2634 N Milwaukee Ave.

One of Chicago’s top high-end thrift stores, El Dorado Thrift (a Hispanic, family-owned business) offers a stylish selection of designer clothing along with funky, one-of-a-kind trinkets and treasures. Pieces are available for as little as $4—making them a must-stop shop on your list.

Location: 2733 N Milwaukee Ave.

This family-owned store has plenty of trendy, gently-used clothing for men, women, and children (as well as shoes and accessories) to choose from. Don't miss the mix of jerseys and sneakers ideal for expanding your streetwear collection.