Editor’s Note: Hi, Sophie Cloonan here — intern for SDtoday. I’m so happy to share this story with you as I’m a huge fan of vintage shopping in our city. I hope you enjoy these local gems. 💎
The vintage clothing scene has stepped up its game in San Diego, giving recycled threads new life.
The local community of vintage sellers spans all the styles — from street fashion and boho, to total showstoppers. Many sellers have even gotten their start at Kobey’s Swap Meet, the San Diego Vintage Flea Market, and pop-up events. From Instagram sellers to brick-and-mortar shops, these are five must-visit vintage stores in San Diego. 👛
👜 Bad Madge & Co., 2205 Fern St., South Park
Ranked the No. 1 spot for vintage goods in the US this year by Yelp, Bad Madge & Co. offers clothing and accessories — plus certified vintage furniture + antique goods. Owner Tanya McAnear takes thrifting to a whole new level with her unique offerings (think 1970s furniture + Peruvian textiles) — basically all the vintage goods you didn’t know you needed.
👛 Wotown Vintage, 730 Market St., Downtown San Diego
Wotown offers the latest in street vintage and hosts a monthly vintage market featuring other local sellers who are part of the city’s thrifting culture. From sneakers to certified jeans, you’re sure to find something that fits your personal style.
The Kickback has an endless array of pop culture looks from which to choose. | Photo via @thekickbacksd
👟 The Kickback Vintage & Sneakers, 9910 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa
This shop got its start by selling on Instagram and eventually grew to plant its roots in Mira Mesa, offering a wide variety of retro sneakers like Air Jordans and the trendy Yeezy sneakers. The Kickback also boasts tons of pop culture shirts featuring logos from Disney, anime, sports teams + band tees.
The La Loupe men’s collection is just a small part of this incredible shop. | Photo via @laloupevintage
🛍️ La Loupe Vintage, 3337 Adams Ave., Normal Heights
Floral patterns, baby tees + bell-bottoms, oh my. This is your one-stop-shop for boho looks, denim, men’s styles, and even adorable gear for the kids. A bonafide leader in the local vintage community, La Loupe takes pride in offering styles that stand out.
⚡Flashbacks, 3849 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest
For those seeking out the groovy style from the 1960s + 1970s, this is the place. The quirky inventory embraces loud colors and funky patterns, encouraging only the truest self-expression. Flashbacks is moving forward, too, opening locations in Carlsbad + Encinitas.
Hey, vintage-loving San Diegans. This is just a sampling of incredible resale shopping in our county. If we missed your favorite shop, email us the deets because we’re always down for a little retro retail therapy. 📩
