12 Best Thrift Stores in Manchester: How to Style on Budget?

Are you on a tight college budget in Manchester, yet you need new OOTDs? Don’t worry; thrift stores in Manchester are your treasure trove! Thrift shopping has become popular, appealing to those seeking unique fashion finds, budget-friendly options, and sustainable choices. From funky tees that will have your friends asking for fashion tips to jeans that are so comfortable they're practically huggable, the thrift shops in Manchester are waiting for you. If you want to know where you should head to refresh your wardrobe, keep reading. We will tell you all about the best thrift stores in Manchester and why you must visit them. So, put on your comfy pyjamas, and let’s start thrifting in Manchester!

The 12 Best Thrift Stores in Manchester

Whether you are looking for Beatle boots, jackets with Nehru collars, or even Bowie-style striped jumpsuits, the vintage shops in Manchester are where you need to be. So, let's dive in and discover Manchester's thrift, one pocket-friendly gem at a time! From their locations to timings, let's explore everything about these best thrift stores in Manchester:

The 12 Best Thrift Stores in Manchester

Whether you are looking for Beatle boots, jackets with Nehru collars, or even Bowie-style striped jumpsuits, the vintage shops in Manchester are where you need to be. So, let's dive in and discover Manchester's thrift, one pocket-friendly gem at a time! From their locations to timings, let's explore everything about these best thrift stores in Manchester:

1. Suzy Loves Milo

Location: 40 Spear St, Manchester M1 1AS
Timings: 12 PM to 6 PM
Price Range: £15 - £250
Review: “Amazing spot! A wide selection of sick rare pieces, lovely staff and fair prices.” 

Suzy Loves Milo is a hidden gem in the Manchester thrift store scene. It’s actually at two places in Manchester, but the OG one is at Spear Street. The boutique offers a curated selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and homeware. With a focus on quality and unique pieces, Suzy Loves Milo is the place for fashion enthusiasts and collectors looking for items that stand out to add to their homes. Nonetheless, you will always find branded and designer labels at this thrift store in Manchester. 

2. Top Of The Town Vintage 

Location: 17 Lower Hillgate, Stockport SK1 1JQ
Timings: 11 AM to 4 PM
Price Range: £20 - £160
Review: “This shop is amazing! What a beautiful collection of hand-picked items that are in good condition and beautiful colours!”

Top Of The Town Vintage is the Mecca for 70s finds in the heart of Manchester. This Manchester thrift store has a pretty cool collection of retro clothes that range from the 1920s to the 1990s. If you are on the lookout for vintage dresses, quirky accessories, graphic tees, or statement jackets, this Manchester thrift shop is a treasure chest of fashion clothing pieces that are lost to time and that serve all styles and tastes. Even if you just have £37 to £61, you will be able to buy your favourite dress or T-shirt you want to wear on your next outing!

3. Blue Rinse

Location: 29-31 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JG‍
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Price Range: £200 - £500
Review: “I really really enjoyed visiting Blue Rinse, they have a great selection of clothes!” 

Blue Rinse is a beloved thrift store in Manchester known for its retro and eclectic finds. From vintage band t-shirts to unique denim pieces, you can don any of these and head over to the clubs in Manchester. This Manchester thrift store also offers a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and homeware. The vibrant and quirky atmosphere adds to the overall thrift shopping in Manchester experience, making Blue Rinse a go-to destination for those seeking individuality and nostalgia in their fashion choices. You can check their Instagram page for the latest updates and all that they have to offer. You will find many aesthetic outfits here for your Barbie day, making it one of the best thrift stores in Manchester.

4. Oxfam Originals

Location: Unit 8, Smithfield Buildings, 51, Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JR
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Price Range: £100 - £300
Review: “All the fancy stuff that people donate to Oxfam comes here, so it's more of a boutique than a normal charity shop. Definitely worth popping in.”

Oxfam Originals is not your typical thrift store in Manchester. As part of the renowned Oxfam charity shop in Manchester, it combines ethical shopping with affordable prices. Here, you can find pre-loved clothing, accessories, books, and homeware, all while supporting a good cause. The well-organised Manchester thrift store and friendly staff create a pleasant environment for shoppers looking for quality second-hand items while making a positive impact. They have theme-based outfits such as clothes inspired by scooby doo characters, retro Barbie, and even 1950s-style outfits. 

5. Bionic Seven

Location: 60 Port St, Manchester M1 2EQ
Timings: 11 AM to 7 PM
Price Range: £30 - £200
Review: “Great shop with a fantastic collection to look through, and everything is very reasonably priced.” 

Next on our list of the best thrift shops in Manchester is Bionic Seven which stands out with its focus on streetwear and urban fashion. Especially when you are going on a date to one of the best restaurants in Manchester and can’t find anything to wear, the shop comes to the rescue. This trendy thrift store in Manchester offers an array of vintage and pre-owned clothing, outwear, military clothing, workwear, denim, sweaters, shirts, trousers, t-shirts, sneakers, and accessories from popular brands. A few of the brands that they offer are Berghaus, Grenfell, Five Brother, and Kappa. With a finger on the pulse of current fashion trends, Bionic Seven is a go-to thrift store in Manchester for those seeking unique street-style looks at affordable prices.

6. Afflecks

Location: 52 Church St, Manchester M4 1PW
Timings: 10:30 AM to 6 PM
Price Range: £12 - £500
Review: “A colourful emporium where you can find absolutely everything. The vibe of this entire building is fantastic!”

Afflecks is more than just a thrift store in Manchester; it is an institution. This multi-story shop has a wide range of independent businesses, including vintage and retro clothing stores, record shops, tattoo studios, and quirky gift shops. Probably the unique thing about this Manchester thrift shop in the city centre is that it gives out different kinds of discounts and gift vouchers. One visit to Afflecks is an adventure in itself, with each floor offering a unique thrift shopping in Manchester experience and an abundance of alternative fashion and cultural finds. It is one of the best vintage shops in Manchester, which has been bringing joy to people's lives for the past 40 years.

7. Bags of Flavor

Location: 33 Tib St, Manchester M4 1LX
Timings: 12 PM to 5:30 PM
Price Range: £15 - £300
Review: “Great store and awesome owner. You'll find some real gems in this store, and all carefully sourced.”

Bags of Flavor is a charming Manchester thrift store located in the Northern quarter of the city specialising in vintage handbags, purses, and accessories. If you are wondering why they chose "Flavor" instead of "Flavour", it is to emphasise the retro vibe of this store. This thrift store in Manchester shows off a collection of stylish and one-of-a-kind bags from different periods. There are some excellent classic Adidas running jumpers, awesome trainers, and some fantastic checked shirts. There might not be a ton of clothing here, but all the stock is stylish and well-chosen. From chic clutches to retro tote bags, Bags of Flavor is a must-visit second-hand store Manchester shop in Manchester for those seeking a statement accessory that adds flair to their outfit. 

8. Hope Direct Charity Shop

Location: 118 Chorlton Rd, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester M15 4AL
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM
Price Range: £20 - £140
Review: “I love this place; it’s such a gem. I've found some great little items here, be it mirrors, furniture, or clothes!”

The Hope Direct Charity Shop combines thrift shopping with supporting a charitable cause. Run by a local charity, this Manchester thrift store offers pre-loved clothing, homeware, books, and more. Every purchase made at the Hope Direct Charity Shop helps fund the organisation's initiatives, making it one of the best charity and vintage shops in Manchester to find hidden treasures. The shop not only offers clothing but also DVDs, VHS, and even some ancient antiques. As a student, you really can't go wrong with the choice, and you are aware that it is for a good cause at the end of it!

9. Pop Boutique

Location: 34 - 36 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JN
Timings: 10:30 AM to 6 PM
Price Range: £12 - £200
Review: “Great vintage store, always worth popping in to see what they've got - lots of hidden gems.”

Pop Boutique is a vintage lover's dream come true. This thrift shop in Manchester opened its doors in 1994. With its retro-inspired decor and lovely collection, this Manchester thrift store offers a wide variety of vintage clothing and accessories. From 1960s mod dresses to 1980s statement pieces, Pop Boutique caters to diverse styles and eras. The basement of this iconic Manchester thrift store is enormous and filled with eccentric antique clothing, furniture, and everything a vintage addict could ever need. With their commitment to quality and affordable prices, it's no wonder that Pop Boutique is one of the best thrift shops in Manchester.

10. Piccadilly Thrift Store

Location: 39 Parker St, Manchester M1 4AJ
Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM
Price Range: £10 - £300
Review: “One of the best thrift shops in Manchester - a fantastic price for some brilliant items.”

Located in the bustling Piccadilly area, Piccadilly Thrift Store in Manchester is a haven for budget-conscious shoppers. Especially when you feel bogged down by the cost of living in Manchester, head here to find a wide range of second-hand clothing, shoes, and accessories at affordable prices. If you're looking to update your wardrobe on a tight budget, it is one of the best vintage shops in Manchester, offering an excellent selection of pre-loved fashion finds.

11. COW

Location: 61 Church St, Manchester M4 1PD
Timings: 10:30 AM to 6 PM
Price Range: £20 - £200
Review: “Such a great vibe! Great selection that obviously always changes at some good prices with a delightful bunch of staff.”

COW stands for "Contemporary Wardrobe," and this thrift store lives up to its name. With a focus on contemporary and vintage clothing, COW brings together a diverse range of styles and trends under one roof. Here, you will find many categories for thrift shopping Manchester, like new in, women's, men's, rework, and premium. From unique dresses and statement coats to retro denim and quirky accessories, COW is a go-to Manchester vintage shop for fashion-forward individuals seeking trendy and affordable fashion pieces. If you shop from their website, you can get your favourite pick at a slashed price. 

12. RSPCA Charity Shop

Location: 15 Oak St, Manchester M4 5JD
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Price Range: £10 - £350
Review: “Great place to find good deals and support a good cause.”

The RSPCA Charity Shop combines thrift shopping with supporting a noble cause. By visiting one of the top retro shops in Manchester, you discover second-hand treasures and contribute to the well-being of animals in need. From clothing and accessories to household items and books, the RSPCA Charity Shop offers a wide range of items, and every purchase helps fund the organisation's animal welfare efforts. Dropping by this Manchester thrift store is not only for pleasure but also a meaningful way to support a cause while finding great bargains. So, next time you're in the city and looking for things to do in Manchester, don't miss the opportunity to dive into these best thrift stores in Manchester and embark on a sustainable fashion journey. ‍

Other Vintage Shops in Manchester 

By now, you have got a clear idea of why we think the retro shops in Manchester are a treasure hunt for unique finds. From Barbour's waxed jacket to Dr Martens boots to trench coats, the vintage shops in Manchester will add a touch of chic and personality to your wardrobe. Let’s have a look at a few bonus vintage shops you should not miss! 

1. British Heart Foundation
2. The Mustard Tree
3. Barnardos
4. British Red Cross
5. Stockport Market Hall
6. Bratt's Vintage

Why Thrift Shops in Manchester are a Must-Visit?

Once you visit the best thrift stores in Manchester, you will delve more into the culture and diversity of the city. The clothing items in these best second-hand shops Manchester will offer you a glimpse into the past and how people dressed ages ago. It's not like you will see knight's armour, but clothing from the 1980s or 1970s at lower prices is a great snatch. Thrift shops in Manchester are no less than the historic attractions in the city, especially when they offer quality finds and help you stay strong on your motto of “reduce, reuse, recycle.” Remember as Livia Firth said, “Sustainable fashion is not a trend, it’s a responsibility.” So, explore the thrift shops in Manchester, enjoy the diversity of styles, and make sustainable choices while you’re at it!

Thrifting in Manchester: Tips to Follow!

Navigating the best thrift stores in Manchester and finding hidden gems requires a keen eye and some insider knowledge. Here are a few tips for thrifting in Manchester.

1. Explore different sections: Make sure to browse through all the sections to uncover unique finds.
2. Do a quality check: Before purchasing anything, thoroughly inspect it for wear or tear.
3. Visit regularly: Thrift stores consistently receive new items, so visiting them regularly will help you stay updated with the latest trends.
4. Get creative: Want to do any DIY projects and upcycling, then thrift stores are the perfect spot.
5. Try the outfits: Before buying, ensure to try the outfits for sizes.

How to Bargain While Thrifting in Manchester?

Bargaining can help you snag unique items at great prices. We will now provide a few tips to help you master the art of bargaining at thrift shops in Manchester.

1. Research: Before bargaining, research the actual price of the item to have a reasonable starting point.
2. Approach: Keep a friendly and respectful approach while bargaining.
3. Consider walking away: If the seller does not agree to your desired price, try walking out. This might prompt them to offer a better deal.
4. Patience: Keep patience, as it might take time to negotiate back and forth to come to a desired agreement.
5. Timing: Some sellers may be ready to negotiate at the end of the day to clear the stock.  

By embracing the art of thrifting, you can build a fashionable wardrobe without breaking the bank, all while contributing to a more sustainable future. You can also check out reliable student services to find some great discounts. If you are a student on a budget, discounts on food and lifestyle services will keep you sorted for a long time. Start your thrifting journey today and uncover hidden treasures while saving money in style!