My Best Thrifting Spots in Connecticut

Lately, thrifting has become super popular among Gen-Z, and it’s also a big part of my life. With fast fashion being such a problem, thrifting is a great way to shop more responsibly and give new life to clothes and items that are still in great shape. Plus, it’s a fun way to find pieces that match your personal style without spending too much money. It’s also a perfect activity to enjoy with friends! Here are my top five favorite places to thrift in Connecticut!

1- Lower Forms

Let me tell you about my favorite thrift store, Lower Forms, in New Haven, CT. This place has a cozy vibe and a carefully curated selection. When you walk in, you’ll find boxes up front where you can dig around for hidden gems, kind of like the Goodwill bins. The rest of the store is neatly organized by clothing types—shirts, jeans, skirts, and more.

They often host pop-up shops with local brands selling things like handmade jewelry, extra thrifted clothes, and unique upcycled items. The staff is super friendly and always ready to chat. They give great tips on what to look for, too. It’s a perfect spot for thrifting, and you can easily spend a lovely day exploring New Haven afterward!

2. Pandemonium Thrift Shop

Next up is Pandemonium Thrift Shop, and let me tell you, it’s a blast! Located in a house in Deep River, CT, this two-story thrift store actually extends into the backyard. On the first floor, you’ll find a mix of vintage and modern clothes, usually priced between $5 and $15, plus a wall full of unique jewelry. There’s even a cozy café, a book room, and a furniture area, not to mention a friendly cat that wanders around!

Downstairs, you can discover everything from chandeliers to sewing supplies, and outside, there’s a trailer packed with vinyl records, CDs, and cassettes. But the best part? The animals! There are goats and a whole area for exploration, making it a fun spot to shop for treasures while enjoying the lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to hunt for great finds and have a memorable time!

3. Three Graces Vintage

Next on my list is Three Graces Vintage. True to its name, this shop specializes in vintage clothing and jewelry. The owner is one of the nicest, most imaginative people I’ve ever met. You can really tell how much care she puts into selecting each piece.

Located in the charming town of Stafford, this store brings so much energy to the community. When I visited for the first time this summer, it felt completely different from any other thrift store I had been to in Connecticut. It’s definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves unique, vintage finds!

4. Elephant’s Trunk

If you’re looking for a bigger thrifting experience, you have to check out Elephant’s Trunk in New Milford. It’s the largest flea market in New England and takes place every Sunday, weather permitting. There are tons of vendors selling just about anything you can imagine, and you’ll often find live music and food trucks to enjoy!

One important tip: make sure to bring cash! I learned the hard way that many sellers don’t accept cards, Venmo, or anything like that. But trust me, this flea market is worth a visit if you want to spend hours exploring and hunting for great finds!

5. Pop-up Vendors

My last recommendation for thrifting is to keep an eye out for pop-up vendors! Events like those from @Forgotten.Flea and @Thrift2Death are super popular on Instagram and often take place in Connecticut. I went to a Forgotten Flea event this past summer, and you could really feel how much the vendors care about their small businesses. One vendor even gave me a free 3D-printed keychain because we had something in common!

If you’re looking for something convenient, there are vendors who set up a few times a year right in Downtown Storrs, especially at Fairfield Way and the Student Union. Broadbin Vintage is a favorite on campus, but you can usually find other unique items around the center of campus throughout the year. It’s a fun way to discover new treasures!

Another great spot for thrifting on campus is the University of Connecticut Swap Shop. Here, you can bring in clothes you no longer want, and in exchange, you get credits to pick out new pieces from what they have available. It’s a really fun idea and a great way to refresh your wardrobe!

Overall, being curious and exploring new places to thrift can lead you to some amazing, timeless, and trendy finds for your closet. Enjoy the adventure!

Connecticut has so many unique places for thrifting, making it a great way to get outside and explore with friends or even by yourself. While online shopping is always an option, CT offers some really interesting thrift stores and events that are fun to visit, all while being eco-friendly and budget-friendly. So, the next time you’re in the mood to thrift or look for some cool items, remember to check out these local spots!