Unveiling the best thrift shopping spots in Bangkok
Bangkok is a lively, culturally rich metropolis famed for its spectacular temples, delectable street cuisine, and electrifying nightlife. As a shopper’s paradise, Bangkok offers a vast array of options, from luxurious malls to expansive markets brimming with remarkable finds. Thrift shoppers, in particular, are drawn to the city’s impressive selection of second-hand and vintage treasures.
Why should you buy second-hand clothes?
Compared with fast fashion, thrift stores provide a sustainable option. Supporting the reuse and recycling of used clothing is beneficial for reducing waste, the demand for new resources, and the environmental impact of the fashion industry. It encourages responsible buying practises, which helps build more environmentally conscious and sustainable communities. Not only that, but thrift shopping is also a great way to find unique selections of clothing to rejuvenate your wardrobe.
Key thrifting spots in Bangkok’s dynamic second-hand shopping scene:
1) Chatuchak weekend market and Bang Sue Junction shopping centre (Red Building)
With two hugely popular second-hand shopping areas, Chatuchak weekend market and the “Red Building,” the Chatuchak district’s Bang Sue Junction has come to be associated with Bangkok’s thrifting scene. The Chatuchak weekend flea market is organised into various areas that are categorised by the goods sold by sellers. The “Red Building,” or Bang Sue Junction shopping center, located opposite of the Chatuchak weekend market, has vintage fashion and second-hand clothing stores occupying the third through fifth levels. Do not miss these two places for an amazing time thrifting affordable clothes!
- Opening Hours: 10am-8pm Monday to Thursday, 10am-10pm Friday to Sunday
- Google Maps: Chatuchak weekend market & Bang Sue Junction shopping center (Red Building)
2) Treasure Factory
Treasure Factory, boasting three outlets situated at Sukhumvit 39, Phrakhanong, and Onnut People Park, presents an extensive array of second-hand products. The stores showcase a variety of vintage fashion items, from clothing and footwear to bags and accessories. While not a budget store, diligent shoppers with keen eyes can uncover reasonably-priced, high-quality finds from sought-after brands like Gucci, Michael Kors, and Prada. In addition to apparel, electronics are also available. As a favoured venue for purchasing and trading second-hand goods, Treasure Factory offers diversity and the opportunity for exceptional deals.
- Opening Hours: 10am-7pm Daily (Sukhumvit 39 and Onnut People Park), 11am-9pm Daily (Phrakhanong)
- Google Maps: Sukhumvit 39, Phrakhanong, Onnut People Park
3) Pattavikorn Market and Pattavikorn Market New Project
The Pattavikorn Market and the Pattavikorn Market New Project are located in close proximity on Namawin road, and both embody the saying “one person’s junk is another’s treasure.” Sellers display second-hand items and attire during yard sales, providing an exciting, though disordered, thrifting shopping experience. Boasting budget-friendly prices, these flea markets are perfect for those seeking vintage gems. Maximise your chances of securing great deals by visiting on Tuesday nights and Wednesday mornings when vendors reveal fresh, sometimes scarce items.
- Opening Hours: 7am-8pm Daily
- Google Maps: Pattavikorn Market (Soi Namawin 72), Pattavikorn Market New Project
4) Horse Unit
Horse Unit, located at Warehouse 30 on Charoen Krung, is a great spot for fashion fans who love workwear and military-style clothes. This stylish vintage store, near Si Phaya Pier and Saphan Taksin BTS, has a wide selection of 1950s and 1960s clothing, such as jackets, graphic t-shirts, cargo pants, boots, duffel bags, and canvas totes. It also sells vintage furniture and film cameras, which those who enjoy unique interiors may appreciate. Although the military-inspired style can be pricey, Horse Unit continues to be a popular choice for shoppers seeking fashionable vintage pieces.
- Opening Hours: 11am–6pm Thursday to Tuesday
- Google Maps: Horse Unit
5) Srinagarindra Train Night Market (Talad Rot Fai)
Srinagarindra Train Night Market, located behind Seacon Square, is a place for bargain enthusiasts. Boasting a unique atmosphere, this lively market attracts locals for weekend hangouts. Two zones feature retro clothing from bygone eras: an outdoor flea market and an indoor vintage train station-themed market. Not limited to vintage, the night market offers modern items, art, handicrafts, furniture, toys, and electronics. Talad Rot Fai provides a vibrant thrift shopping experience that should not be missed during your Bangkok visit.
- Opening Hours: 5pm-1am, Tuesday to Sunday
- Google Maps: Srinagarindra Train Night Market (Talad Rot Fai)
6) (un)FASHION Vintage Collection
Fans of vintage clothing should visit (un)FASHION Vintage Collection, which is conveniently located near the Ekkamai BTS Skytrain station. The shop specialises in leather goods from Japan, the USA, and Europe, including shoes, boots, purses, and jackets, offering distinctive and timeless wardrobe pieces. The property, which is across from the Ekkamai Shopping Mall, houses both a charming café and a lovely vintage shop with unique items. For a memorable shopping experience and true vintage finds, don’t miss (un)FASHION Vintage Collection.
- Opening Hours: 10am-5:30pm Daily
- Google Maps: (un)FASHION Vintage Collection
7) The Vintage Store
With branches in the Central Embassy and Eight Thong Lo shopping malls, the shop has a classic, stylish look and offers a comfortable shopping experience. The store selection covers bags, accessories, and special jackets, with genuine items that are hard to find anywhere else. For fashion lovers seeking brand-name finds, this high-end vintage clothing store is a great place to visit. Feel free to swing by whenever you are nearby these two malls!
- Opening Hours: 10am-7:30pm Daily (Central Embassy), 11am-7:30pm Daily (Eight Thong lo)
- Google Maps: Central Embassy, Eight Thong lo
Bangkok is an ideal choice for shoppers of all preferences, particularly for thrift shoppers. By choosing secondhand stores, consumers help create communities that value the environment and reduce waste and resource consumption. Moreover, the distinctive and vibrant apparel options offered at these shops are perfect for giving your outfit a dash of flair. So, go on a thrifting adventure in Bangkok and practise responsible shopping while finding hidden fashion gems!
If you want to read more about sustainable fashion as another method for shopping sustainably, click here.
