As the capital of la vie boheme, it’s only natural that Paris is an epicenter for second hand shopping. However, being new to any city means a period of introduction, especially in terms of thrifting. Here’s a list of my favorite thrift spots in Paris to get you started:
Free ‘P’ Star
20 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 (M Saint-Paul)
By far my favorite thrift spot in Paris, Free ‘P’ Star has everything from mod dresses to shearling coats. It can get crowded in their tiny shop in the Marais, so I recommend going earlier in the day. Make sure to check out the 1 euro bin next to the entrance, where, with a little patience, you can find some amazing pieces. Don’t forget to check out the basement, either, which is ideal for trying things on and has a great collection of Levi’s jeans for €10-15. This is definitely a store that requires time if you’re interested in finding something to buy versus just browsing.
Vintage Désir
32 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 (M Saint-Paul)
When looking for this shop, look for a large sign above the door that says “Coiffeur.” Though a little more expensive than FPS, Vintage Desir is well-organized and the owners are quite friendly. Here you can find a wide selection of belts and gently used handbags, sometimes a rarity in the low price range of thrifting. They also have a great collection of dungarees and overalls in the €15-25 range. Don’t forget to go further down the street for falafel from L’As du Falafel or Chez H’anna when you’re done shopping!
KILOTIME
8 Boulevard de Magenta 75010 (M Republique or Jacques Bonsergent)
KILOTIME is among the larger thrift shops in Paris, and to that end, one of the more expensive. Skirts and tops are in the €5-10 range here, and jeans are closer to the €25-30 range. For something less unique but still thrifted, this is the place to go. They have huge racks of denim, striped, and flannel shirts for under €10 that can sometimes be harder to find in a less organized shop. Definitely watch for the sales here; last year, after Christmas, they gave out store credit for every euro you spent, so when I spent €30, I then received €30 more to spend in the store!
Kilo Shop Paris Saint-Germain
125 Boulevard Saint-Germain 75006 (M Saint Germain des Pres or Mabillon)
Ask anyone who lives in Paris where you should thrift, and they’re likely to mention, if not gush over, Kilo Shop. I recommend at least stopping in; although it is pretty expensive to buy clothes here, there is an awesome selection of pieces like denim and army jackets that are hard to find elsewhere. KS also provides some fun people-watching and has a sister shop in the Marais in addition to locations across Europe.
Vertiges
85 Rue Saint Martin 75004 (M Hotel de Ville)
A stone’s throw from the Pompidou, Vertiges is another gem of Paris second hand shops. Though often crowded because of its touristy location, I recommend going here for its collection of fur coats and shoes for nominal prices. What’s great about Vertiges is that even if their pieces don’t do it for you, Rue Saint Martin is packed with little thrift shops and if you wander west towards Les Halles you’ll find even more.
While thrifting in Paris, it’s important to remember that bartering isn’t part of the culture. However, if you make it to one of the flea markets feel free to bargain with the vendors–try the famous Marché aux Puces de St. Ouen at Porte de Clignancourt or the more intimate Marché aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves in the 14eme. Another great way to find second hand clothing in Paris is keeping your eyes out for garage sales (les vide-greniers), where you will find some of the cheapest clothes around and maybe even meet your neighbours! Between these two alternatives and the multitude of thrift shops scattered around the city, you’re sure to end up with a whole new wardrobe by the end of your stay in Paris.
Geneva Gleason is a thrifting Qween and you can read more of her wonderful writing HERE.
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