L Train Vintage.

L Train Vintage is a classic New York thrift spot. It’s not curated, styled, or polished, and that’s exactly what makes it fun. When I want a real hunt, this where I go. The prices are low, the racks are packed, and you have to be ready to dig a little, but the payoff is worth it. I’ve found vintage Levi’s, flannels, graphic sweatshirts, and sturdy jackets that I still wear years later.

There are a few locations across the city, but my favorites are in Williamsburg and Bushwick. Each one has its own personality, and because the inventory turns over so quickly, I try to stop by often. It’s a great spot to shop by feel and see what catches your eye. The mix is wide. Some items are decades old, others feel more recent, but it’s all secondhand full of character. If you like the idea of thrift without the markup, L Train is one of the most reliable spots in NYC. It’s affordable, unpretentious, and always an adventure.

The East Village is known for vintage shopping. There are a few great shops to choose from but L Train Vintage seems to take the cake. Since opening their doors in 1999, this family-owned business has become the go-to spot for New Yorkers in search of vintage apparel. How do we know? Well, they’ve since spread to 9 locations in NYC.

Unlike most vintage shops in the city, L Train Vintage doesn’t rely on donations, opting for scheduled shipments of vintage clothes instead (to keep the inventory fresh and exciting).