If you love the irreplaceable sensation that runs through your body as you pick up the most original piece of clothing that is both in perfect condition and seems as if it was made for you – then you are in the right place at the right time because that is how I would describe myself.
I love browsing through stalls of old leather jackets that look straight out of the 80’s, pants that make me look like a young 70’s sensation or some chunky sweaters I want to lose myself in. It just feels like you can experiment with your style so much through shopping second hand. And it never hurts to feel environmentally friendly after a purchase, as through buying those used pair of jeans you are part of the solution towards a more sustainable world.
And as on a cue – here is a list of some of my favourite places for shopping second hand!
Oxfam
For anyone attending the Newcastle University, this is a few steps away from your Monday 9am. If you are looking for some unique pieces that are also affordable be sure to visit Oxfam. Apart from clothes, they also have a selection of shoes, ranging from high heels to boots to sneakers. And if clothes shopping is not for you today, you can still visit and browse some of the books or vinyl records they have on selection – and of those they have many.
One thing I particularly enjoy about this cute little shop is their selection of hand-made and local artists merchandise selection. If you are still looking for some original gifts in the run-up to Christmas, don’t hesitate and give this shop a visit. From crocheted blankets, to Christmas cards, you can find absolutely anything.
British Heart Foundation
Along with the next two examples, this worth-your-visit British Heart Foundation, are all on Clayton Street which is a few minutes walk from Grey’s Monument. These shops should therefore end up on your bucket list of second hand shops to visit the next time you have some time to kill in the city.
If you are still hunting for a new winter coat, give this one a quick visit, as they have two full racks of winter coats and jackets. On the other hand, if it is nearing the ball season in your university and you are still in need of a dress, why not try to look over here? They have quite the selection of both skirts and dresses, and even some heels – for the bravest among us – along with a bunch of accessories with which you will definitely stand out.
And yet, if you are like me and balls aren’t really your thing and you’ve been wearing the same winter coat for the past three winters, then let me tempt you to some of the best sweaters I’ve seen. Overall, this shop is probably my favourite one to visit, as it gives me a very old-soul vibe that I can go crazy for.
PDSA Charity Shop
Second gem on the same street has some great pieces in store for you if you just so dare to visit. All from shirts, pants, bags and jackets to a whole rack of Christmas sweaters if you still haven’t found this year’s addition. It is extremely cheap and therefore perfect if you are a student like me who refuses to pay more than necessary and always looks for ways to cheat the system (and pay less obviously).
Pop in here when you are desperately in need to treat yourself to a £4 sweater, and let’s be honest, when are you ever not in need of such a cheap sweater that will spice up your wardrobe?
Cats Protection Charity Shop
The last one on the Clayton Street of second hand shops is one I particularly enjoy as all their merchandise is colour organised. To anyone who loves a good system and finds this sort of organisation satisfying, say less, am I right?
On a different note, this one has a little less of a vintage vibe than the rest and so if you are not up for dressing like you escaped through time (which come on – where is the fun in that?) than this one is a great visit for you. And, apart from clothes, you can find books and even some other merchandise like candy – that of course is not second hand.
Yesterday’s society
Yesterday’s society in Grainger Market is hands down the most visually pleasing second hand store I’ve yet visited in Newcastle, as well as the smallest one. Even if I don’t have time to stop and browse through their selection as I am running home with some groceries, I still have to admire the 70’s vibe they so effortlessly showcase through their design and their selection of clothes.
Apart from the clothes, my favourite detail has to be the jewelry they stock, believe me when I say I would love to own the majority of what they offer. Stylish scarfs, funky sunglasses, bougie jewelry and some one-of-a-kind hats is everything and more you can discover in this tiny yet packed corner shop during your next visit to Grainger’s.
Vintage scene
Slightly more on the pricier side yet still worth the visit – The Vintage Scene. This is a very good quality second hand shop, I personally love to browse through. They have many clothes of varying sizes and styles and even some original pieces made from old materials. I am an absolute sucker fro their tote bags, they have some made from old denim and some from old corduroy materials. Proud to say I am an owner of one such awesome corduroy tote that is my go-to bag for long days of uni.
Apart from all that they also have a bunch of jewelry and other accessories like scarfs and hats, so be sure to pop in here, even if just to look around and enjoy the overall aesthetic of the place. My personal favourite – that bright pink neon sign you can see towards the background of the picture above.
And with that, my list ends – and as the sign above – please feel free to shop vintage and save the planet.