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. 📩