It’s closet cleanout season! Once you’ve done the work of going through your existing clothing inventory and organizing what you’re keeping, the odds are, you probably have at least a bag of clothes to get rid of. Whether they’re pieces that don’t fit, aren’t your style anymore, or have some wear and tear, it’s time to say goodbye! But the last thing you should do is throw them in the trash. We do not need any more clothes ending up in the landfill if we can help it! So, where do you get rid of clothes you no longer wear? There are a ton of options, some of which require little to no effort at all.
Here’s where you should get rid of the clothes you no longer wear!
Donation Bin
This is probably the easiest way to get rid of the clothes you no longer wear. There are donation bins scattered all around the city. All you have to do is pack up your items in a bag (or multiple bags) and throw them in. It varies where the clothes will end up depending on the organization, but they will likely go to a thrift store where a portion of the profit will go to a charity.
Thrift Store
Similar to the above, it’s super easy to drop off your used clothing at the thrift store, except this way you can usually snag a coupon and do some thrift shopping yourself while you’re there!
Give To A Friend
Before you go ahead and get rid of the clothing you no longer love, ask your friends if they want to go through it first! You can even do a little clothing swap and end up with some new-to-you finds.
Donate To A Shelter
If you want your clothing to directly help those in need, the best way to do so is to directly drop your gently-used clothing at a homeless or women’s shelter. Note: It’s always a good idea to call ahead first.
Sell Online
Selling your pieces online may require a little bit of extra effort, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re getting rid of some high-ticket items! Some easy places to sell used clothing online are Poshmark, Depop, eBay, etc.
Consign
Another way to earn some extra money on clothing you were going to get rid of anyway is by consigning! Consigning is obviously more suited for those particular pieces that are on-trend or are a good name brand.
Retail Recycling Programs
More and more retailers have joined the secondhand and recycling movement with donation boxes in stores! For example, H&M has recycling boxes across the globe where you can donate textiles you don’t want anymore – even the rags! The textiles get sorted into 3 categories; Rewear: Wearable clothes are marketed as secondhand clothing, Reuse: If the clothes aren’t suitable for wear, they’re turned into other products, and Recycle: All other clothes and textiles are shredded into textile fibres and used to make other things – like insulation materials, for example.
Have A Rummage/Garage Sale
If you have enough stuff to get rid of to host a garage sale and have the space to do so, why not go for it? You can even gather some friends to join in! If you don’t want to host one yourself, contact local churches or charities and one may be happy to take in some of your unwanted items to contribute to their next rummage sale!
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Spring is quickly approaching, and we all know what that means. It’s almost time for the closet switchover from winter to spring. Goodbye heavy knits and puffer coats, hello rain jackets and breathable tops! Every year around this time, I like to do some thrifting before I hit the mall in an attempt to replenish my spring wardrobe. I always thrift first, and if all else fails I can do the rest of my spring shopping elsewhere.
I went into my local Value Village to try and find some 2023 Spring trends… here’s how it went!
First up, I found a navy-check rain jacket. It was super lightweight and I loved that it had a waistband to cinch it in a bit. Everyone needs a rain jacket come springtime, and this one was such a cute find!
Next, you can’t really tell in the picture, but I promise this is a sheer top! I’m almost positive you’ve heard by now, sheer is going to remain to be a huge trend this year. I think this particular one would be cute styled with a pair of great-fitting jeans.
I never leave the thrift without checking the men’s section first. Cargo pants are another major trend this year and the men’s section is the best place to find them while thrifting! These ones were definitely not my size, but I still wanted to showcase them to show that you can find precious cargo (lol) at the thrift.
You may just need to use your imagination for this one, okay? Cinched and tailored blazers were seen all over fashion week, so naturally, I was on a hunt for one at the thrift. I’ll admit, this one wasn’t totally the vibe I was going for, however, I did like its synching details. I could just do without those particular lapels.
I so wish this piece was my size. Metallics are another big spring trend this year and this jacket is serving! I loved the side-detailing, too.
You have to check your local thrift store before buying a new long skirt from anywhere else. Long skirts have been going in and out of style for a long time, so of course some have been donated along the way. This one doesn’t look so great just on the hanger, but I can totally picture it being styled super trendy and cute.
Lastly, I had to check out the shoes. I’ve been seeing a ton of pointed heels poking out of long pants, so I thought the shoes to the right would be perfect for achieving that look. The shoes to the left are a silver-lovers dream. We all know by know that silver is super in and isn’t going away anytime soon.
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Whether you’re minimizing your wardrobe after a Marie Kondo marathon or want to do a deep spring clean, donating your unneeded clothing is sustainable and charitable. Over 20 billion pounds of textiles end up in landfills every year, and only 10% get donated to charities or to secondhand stores. Recycling your old clothes is simultaneously altering the approach to retail, the environmental crisis, and humanitarian aid for a wholesome and inventive way to rework the fashion industry. Plus, donating used clothes to shelters or stores that give back is a great way to do some clearing out while still feeling good about helping others in Toronto.
If you’re looking to donate old clothing, check out these places all located here in Toronto!
Consignment/Thrift Stores
Salvation Army
You can drop off your gently used clothing, homeware, and furniture at your local Salvation Army Thrift Store for someone else to enjoy. After all, another person’s trash is another’s treasure.
Value Village
Value Village’s work with nonprofits allows you to maximize the use of your unworn clothing by strengthening your community and planet!
Habitat For Humanity Restore
With 11 locations across the GTA, Habitat ReStore sells your unique home goods in its vintage and antique store. Donate furniture, appliances, and décor to be purchased at sale price!
H&M
Reduce, reuse, and re-wear with H&M’s recycling program. Take a bag of your textiles to your nearest H&M to be sent to a recycling plant. Every bag is redeemed with a discount card of$5 off a $30 purchase in-store. All materials all welcome, even if highly worn out.
Common Sort
With three locations in Toronto, Common Sort should definitely be on your radar. The store will take your gently used clothes and offer you 25% cash or 50% of what they plan on selling it for on credit to use in the store. Though Common Sort does sell vintage, it has a huge selection of premium branded clothes. Brands we’ve spotted before including Marc Jacobs, Jimmy Choo, Kate Spade, and more. Because the store buys all of its stock directly from customers, its inventory is constantly changing so if you see something you like, we highly suggest grabbing it right away, it might be your only chance!
Plato’s Closet
This second-hand shop will purchase your lightly-used goods so your brand-name purchases won’t go to waste. Now both you and the new wearer can score on this double-whammy.
I Miss You Vintage
If you have some designer pieces that you’re looking to get rid of, head to the trendy Ossington strip to check out what I Miss You Vintage. Items that are over $100 will be paid out at 50% for the consigner upon sale and brands you can expect to shop range from Chanel, Gucci, and Fendi to Zimmerman, Acne Studios, and Yves Saint Laurent.
Consign Toronto
Check out Queen West to shop all sorts of designer awesomeness at Consign Toronto. This consignment store has three floors that are totally filled with goodies from brands like Dior, Balenciaga, Gucci, and more. No appointment is necessary and you can get up to 70% back on your items.
Organizations
Diabetes Canada Declutter & Donate
Diabetes Canada makes it easy for you to recycle your unworn clothes by scheduling a pick-up or finding a donation box. Prepare your garments in a 67-liter garbage bag or housewares in a box that doesn’t exceed 40 pounds, schedule a pick-up, and leave it outside your door.
Dress Your Best
Dress Your Best is operated by the Live to Give Relief Organization, whose mission is to promote the economic independence of men across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) since 2000. The generous support of community clothing and financial donations has enabled us to continue to supply men with high-quality, professional apparel for job interviews and employment. In 2018 alone, we provided professional clothing to over 600 men.
Clothing Donation Boxes
You can find clothing drop-off boxes that support various charities and initiatives in the parking lots of malls or specific streets for fast and easy convenience.
New Circles
Give back your clothes, shoes, and accessories at New Circle’s drop-off center. Bring your donations during operating hours to the side entrance to be assisted, or set up your own clothing drive!
Yonge Street Mission
Have a positive impact on your community by donating your quality clothing to YSM to be resold at the fraction of its price. The mission’s thrift store, Double Take, is a market that offers the community premium goods at a price people can afford.
Kidney Clothes
Kidney Clothes takes its slogan ‘we want the clothes you don’t’ seriously. Your clothing donations help stimulate kidney research projects to fight disease — all you have to do is schedule a pick-up, find a location, or start your own fundraiser.
Dress For Success
Dress For Success’ main goal is to empower women to enter the workforce. It accepts clothing donations that’ll help make a positive impression in the corporate world, such as power suits and blouses to help women dress for the job they want.
The New Mom Project
Help new moms and marginalized families by providing baby clothing and necessities. Help take some of the pressure off by giving the basics to those who need it most.
Sistering
Provide immediate relief to women who’ve gone through trauma and discrimination by giving adults and children clothing, blankets, and footwear.
Shelters
Sanctuary Toronto
Sanctuary offers a place of refuge for those who need a place of security to heal. This safe haven offers programs that help strengthen the community, and clothing donations help clothe those who are marginalized.
Covenant House
Give back to your community by donating to homeless youth who need the proper and sufficient apparel to get them through the changing seasons. Covenant House accepts winter garments as part of its donation services so folks can keep warm.
Oasis Clothing Bank
Oasis offers sanctuary to those struggling with and overcoming addiction. Donate your lightly-worn clothing to a donation bin that’ll be distributed amongst members.
The Scott Mission
The Scott Mission offers outreach programs and a safe place to provide wellness to the homeless or low-income folks. You can help by donating apparel by dropping it off or getting it picked up.
Jessie’s Centre
Pregnant women and young moms are given a stable and safe space at Jessie’s Centre. Donors can give maternity wear, clothing for younger women, baby clothes, and various accessories.
Fred Victor
Fred Victor is a social service charitable organization that fosters long-lasting and positive change in the lives of homeless and low-income people living across Toronto. Every day, more than 2,000 people use the programs and services offered. Check out the website for which gently used clothing items they’re in need of.
Horizons For Youth
Horizons for Youth is a shelter for at-risk and homeless youth between the ages of 16-24 years old in Toronto. It provides youth with the support they need to escape from the cycle of poverty and leave the streets behind.
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The new year is quickly approaching, which means New Year’s Eve events are around the corner! New Year’s Eve fashion is super fun with all of the sequins, sparkles, and shimmer typically involved. However, a lot of the clothing that generally classifies as appropriate for New Year’s Eve is typically difficult to re-wear. Which is 1. Not very sustainable and 2. Kind of a waste of money. I’m not saying don’t shop for a new shimmer-filled sparkly outfit to ring in the new year, but I will say before you go out to the mall or shop the look online, hit up a few thrift shops first to see what’s already out there! That way you’ll have a completely unique NYE look that won’t break the bank.
I challenged myself to visit my local thrift on a mission to find clothing that would make perfect New Year’s Eve outfits. Here’s how it went!
During the trip to my local Value Village thrifting for New Year’s Eve clothing, I basically had my eyes peeled for anything that sparkled. I came across this cute sparkly black tank with a cowl neck detail. I also found a pair of black leather pants which paired perfectly with the tank! These pieces paired with some platform heels and a clutch with some sparkle would be perfect for NYE.
I also found this purple shimmery top that could be paired with pretty much any bottoms to make a simple yet effective New Year’s Eve look.
Next, I found this colourful sequin dress that would be sure to turn heads at any NYE event! I thought it paired perfectly with a black blazer I found that had some beading details throughout it – making it totally NYE-approved.
When I came across this gradient sequin dress on the rack, I was super excited to pull it out and take a look, and I was not disappointed! The gradient reminds me of a night sky in a way, so it feels super fitting for NYE. I think it would be great styled with some sheer black tights, black heels, and maybe even an oversized blazer.
I think this silver dress by BCBG Max Azria would be great for a New Year’s Eve house party, possibly even dressed down with a knit cardigan thrown on top to serve cozy-glam vibes. Or simply worn as-is for a general glam look.
This was probably my favourite find of the entire visit. It feels like a modern style NYE dress and looks effortlessly chic with its boxy silhouette. I love the mix of sequin and sheer black fabric too, it just feels luxe. I think it would be perfect for absolutely any NYE event!
The last couple of pieces I found were a leather black skirt with some hardware details, which add a bit of grunge, and another sparkly tank! One thing I learned on this thrift trip is that there is no shortage of sparkly tank tops at the thrift. I picture the tank tucked into the skirt and paired with some knee-high boots and a moto jacket to give a more “cool-girl” NYE vibe.
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We’ve had our first snowfall here in Toronto, which means it’s about that time of year when our outfits get pretty much entirely covered by coats. Which has its pros and cons. Con: No matter how cute your outfit is, you better find a way to incorporate a coat or freeze. Pro: A coat can single-handedly carry the weight of your outfit. As much as I dislike the cold, I’m a huge fan of styling cute coats and have accumulated quite a few at the thrift store over the years. Living in a place like Toronto, it’s great to have a few go-to’s to get through the winter!
Coats can get to be pretty expensive, even from fast-fashion stores you can almost always expect to pay at least around $100. Which is one of the many reasons I always try the thrift store first. Now that the cold weather is officially upon us, I decided to go on a coat hunt at my local Value Village to see what I could find, and what you could find, too!
Keep reading to see What coats I found at my local Value Village!
The first coat – or jacket if you will – I came across was by London Fog. It’s made of water-proof material and actually feels quite heavy. Which equals a little more warmth! My favourite part about this jacket is its unique snap closures. I ended up adding this one to my own collection, but don’t worry the rest I left in the store ready to be found.
Next, I found this super chic navy-blue trench coat! It reminds me of something that one of the royals might wear if it were a tad more tailored. But I actually prefer the loose, boxy fit. I also love the contrast piping it features throughout.
In case you haven’t heard, The Matrix is in. Which is exactly what this black leather trench is serving! All it needs is a pair of opaque sunglasses and it’s a whole look. I love finding my leather pieces at the thrift store, it’s guilt-free and a lot more affordable than buying them new. This one definitely needs to be de-wrinkled but is still so cool.
It doesn’t get much cozier than this coat! I felt its softness as I was going through the racks and had to try it on. I think this one could be styled with a high-glam outfit easily, thanks to its lux texture!
Everyone needs a puffer coat to get them through the winter – especially in Toronto! This one was extra-puffy and had a nice subtle shine finish to it, adding some extra interest to an otherwise simple black puffer.
Last but not least. An honourable mention from thrifts past. This is my all-time favourite thrift find ever. It’s a Max Mara coat that I found at a Value Village last year. If you aren’t familiar with Max Mara, it’s a high-end brand, especially known for its luxury coats. They can cost upwards of a thousand dollars and I paid just under $30 for mine.
Before making a splurge, try thrifting for cute coats first! You may just find your holy grail.
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Now that October is in full swing, it’s officially time to start planning your Halloween costume if you haven’t already. Whether you’re in the mood to rock something a little on the sexy, silly, or scary side, Toronto has your back when it comes to shopping for festive costumes.
In just a few weeks, Toronto will be overrun with ghosts and ghouls as they take over the city decked out in their finest guises. And in order to really participate in all the fun this year, you’ll need to stock up on goodies from some of the city’s finest Halloween costume and vintage stores.
Here are the best stores to shop for Halloween costumes in Toronto.
Spirit Halloween
Do your Halloween requirements include movie or character-themed costumes, neon wigs, and crazy accessories? No need to exhaust yourself around town — you can tick everything off your list at Spirit Halloween. There’s also an impressive selection of decorations, props, and party supplies if that’s what you’re after.
Where: Multiple locations in the city. Full list here.
Candy’s Costume Shop
This Mount Pleasant shop allows you to rent or shop online and in-store for all your costume needs. Here you’ll find adult and kids’ costumes, makeup, masks, and wigs. The best part? It deals with over 60 costume suppliers, so you’ll definitely find one of the best selections in the city.
Where: 685 Mount Pleasant Road
Malabar Theatrical Costumes
In a city that has retail stores that are constantly closing, Malabar has been consistently supplying Toronto with costumes for decades. While this renowned theatrical costume shop is open year-round, the Halloween offerings are definitely worth checking out. Here you’ll find everything from period pieces to animal, and themed costumes, dance wear, and makeup.
Where: 14 McCaul Street
Value Village
If you’re more of a fan of DIY costumes without having to spend a fortune, you’re going to want to head to your nearest neighbourhood Value Village. This spot is flush with clutch vintage and secondhand digs, so whether you’re in the mood for an old-school look or you want to recreate your favourite superhero or movie character, then you should definitely pop in here. You can also check out the Value Village website for Halloween costume inspo.
Where: Multiple locations throughout the city. Full list here.
Theatrix Costume House
Theatrix Costume House has one of the largest privately-owned collections of theatrical-quality costumes in Canada and the United States. Since opening its doors in 1965, Theatrix is home to thousands of costumes, wigs, and accessories. Don’t see what you’re looking for? The incredible staff can also help you create the perfect Halloween costume from scratch. Also, during the month of October, no appointment is necessary, so you can just drop by and get your creation started.
Where: 61 Elm Grove Avenue
Black Market Vintage Clothing
This Halloween, if you’re going to a blast-from-the-past bash and want to wear legit old-school duds, or you’re simply in the market for some pre-loved pieces, you’ll find everything you need and more at this Queen Street West spot. It’s here that you’ll also find an extensive selection of accessories including hats and sunglasses if you need any last-minute costume additions.
Where: 347 Queen Street West
Party City
While Party City’s offerings may give your wallet a pinch — some real-deal costumes retail for a cool $400 — if you’re keen on high-quality gear, look no further. There’s also an extensive line of in-house makeup, wigs, and masks, plus costumes for kids, adults, and pets, and even Halloween decorations and festive party supplies.
Where: Multiple locations throughout the city. Full list here.
Exile
Exile has been in the business of glad rags for over 30 years. Owner Lynn Harpell opened the original store in 1975 with punk, DIY, and anti-war sensibilities, along with a nod to Rolling Stone’s “Exile on Main Street.” You’ll find a ton of great vintage finds as well as costumes all year long!
Where: 60 Kensington Ave
It’s My Party
Looking for a variety of costumes to choose from? Check out It’s My Party to browse wigs, full costumes, costume accessories, and even Halloween decor.
Where: 2208 Danforth Avenue
Reflections Vintage Antiques and Theatrical Costumes
If you’re in the market for that chic 1920s Great Gatsby vibe, then you have to make a stop here. Reflections Vintage Antiques and Theatrical Costumes have all of the glitz and glam costumes that you’re on the hunt for.
Where: 839 Gerrard Street East
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If you’re looking to shop the latest trends, I always recommend trying the thrift first. Most clothing trends are directly pulled from the past, meaning someone else’s trash (or previous clothing donations), can now become your treasure! I decided to challenge myself with the goal of finding current 2022 fashion trends I’ve been loving during a trip to Value Village.
Before I hit the racks, I made a list of what exactly to keep my eye out for. I think it’s always a good idea to have a thrift wish-list, so you don’t accidentally miss something just because it wasn’t at the forefront of your mind. Making a list makes the process more intentional and less all over the place because we all know thrifting can be overwhelming. That being said, even though I had a general list, I always go in with an open mind for more. You never know what you may come across!
Some of the general trends and specific pieces I was looking out for at Value Village were: mini skirts, lingerie style clothing, vests, ballet core pieces, coastal grandmother clothing (linen, button-ups, etc), cargo bottoms, beaded bags, clogs, and silk scarves… you get the point. Of course, I didn’t find everything on my wish list, but I am pretty stoked with what I did end up finding!
Take a look at what I found while thrifting current fashion trends!
Shoulder Bags
I always check the purse section first. This time I had my eye out for beaded purses, shoulder bags, and canvas tote bags. I had no luck finding anything beaded, but the other two bags I found totally made up for it. Shoulder bags are definitely having a moment right now! Even when they aren’t specifically “trending”, you can never go wrong with a classic shoulder bag. I came across the one pictured above while searching the purse section at Value Village because I thought the shape was really cool. I turned it around to its front and saw the word “Gucci” stamped on the front of it! I have no doubt that it was a knock-off, but still, a pretty cool find nonetheless.
Tote Bags
The simplest bag trend is taking the world by storm. The classic tote bag. People are ditching structured work bags for relaxed canvas tote bags! They’re just so effortlessly cool. I’ve had my eye out for one at the thrift for a while and coincidentally this time, I found one! It’s branded with Sperry, which gives it that nautical vibe everyone seems to be loving right now, too.
Vests
I’ve been seeing tailored vests everywhere lately! It’s the perfect piece to bring you from summer to fall too, being that it can be worn buttoned-up as a top, or layered over a shirt. This is a clothing item you can almost always find at the thrift! Both in the men’s and women’s sections depending on the overall vibe you’re striving for. The one I found was from women’s, and I liked how it had a satin back, making it a little more relaxed and less stiff than a typical menswear tailored vest.
Lingerie Tops
Another thing I’ve been seeing literally everywhere is lingerie-style tops and corsets worn as going-out tops! Don’t skip out on the lingerie section at VV, there are tons of great finds! I found a pink tank with the prettiest feminine details, that I actually ended up purchasing for myself. I think it would be super cute paired with a simple pair of jeans! I also found more of a lingerie-style top, also in pink (another trend in itself #BarbieCore), that would make for such an adorable going-out-in-the-town top!
Mini Skirts
The thrift has many mini skirts to go around and in a large variety of styles! I checked two trends off my list with this cargo-style mini-skirt I found! It’s actually a skort which makes it even cooler in my humble opinion. This piece of clothing single-handedly fills all of my late-90s and early-2000s style dreams.
Coastal Grandmother
I can’t get enough of the “Coastal Grandmother” trend, made popular on TikTok by creator Lex Nicoleta, and the thrift is the absolute perfect place to shop for it! When I was looking for clothing within the coastal grandmother theme, I pictured any clothing I may see chic grandma at the beach or gardening in, elevated it by picturing said grandmother in The Hamptons. Linen, breezy pants, neutral colours, loose button-ups… you get the vibe. The pieces I found reminiscent of this trend were a pair of white linen loose-fitting pants with a waist-tie and a short-sleeved button-up shirt (which may have also come home with me).
Baby Tees
Baby Tees are something that has been popular for quite a while now and remains relevant today! They’re really not difficult at all to find at any thrift store! I found this cute pastel striped baby-tee with a lettuce hem in the Women’s Tee-Shirt section. It’s such an easy piece to style in a multitude of ways. Bonus Tip: Depending on your clothing size, you may even be able to get away with finding your perfect baby-tee in the kid’s section!
Heels
The last thing I looked at was shoes, and there were tons of cute and trendy shoe options! If you’re a little wary of getting shoes at the thrift I recommend trying out a shoe sanitizing spray and then you’re pretty much set. One of the shoe trends I was looking out for were clogs, as I’ve been seeing them styled more and more. Although I didn’t find actual clogs, I did find a style inspired by them. I also found an adorable pair of black heels with a toe-ring detail, which is super trendy right now!
The bottom line is, I would say this thrift trip exceeded my expectations! Even though I didn’t check everything off of my list, I was impressed with how many current trends I could actually find within the walls of my local Value Village. If you’re looking to test out some current fashion trends, I hope you feel inspired to try thrifting some for a sustainable, not to mention, affordable alternative!
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Thrifters unite! Value Village announced its opening of two downtown stores, but with a slight twist.
These shops aren’t the typical Value Villages that we’re used to, instead, they’ll be called Value Village Boutiques.
The alleged reason for these boutique stores is to allow the company to expand into smaller neighbourhoods and really cater to the people who live in them. This also means placing a larger focus and more detailed selection process for men’s and women’s apparel, footwear, and accessories.
A spokesperson has said to Curiosity that the pricing will still be consistent with what you would find at original Value Villages, but people on social media think that it will eventually become a pricier spot for the curated pieces.
Value Village Boutique will open the first location at 639 Queen Street West on July 7 and then the second will be located at 394 Bloor Street West, with an opening date still pending.
Send us a DM on Instagram if you’re excited about this new concept or if you don’t think it’ll be worth the hype.
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The nature of thrifting is always hit or miss, however where you’re thrifting can totally affect your success rate. If you’re someone who’s new to the world of thrifting, it can be challenging to find your favourite locations, especially when it comes to Value Village. As you get comfortable with thrifting, you’ll soon find your go-to spots where you seem to have the most luck. Some locations are more organized than others, and some are just over-crowded, and seem to always be picked over. There are pros and cons of a quiet Value Village just as much as a busy one — it’s all about preference, but we’re here to help you experiment to help you find your top spots. We know that thrifting at Value Village requires some patience, but opting to shop there over chain stores or even curated thrift stores will definitely help you save.
Here are the best Value Village locations to shop at in the GTA.
70 Bristol Rd E, Mississauga
This Mississauga Value Village is a huge location with a great selection. It’s one of the more organized Value Village’s which always makes it easier to sift through the racks, especially if you’re a thrifting newbie!
2030 Appleby Line, Burlington
This Value Village is located in Burlington, about an hour away from Toronto and it’s known to be super clean and organized! It’s also rarely busy, which is always nice. It has a great selection of various types of clothing, so regardless of your style, there’s something at this Value Village for everybody.
1525 Victoria Park Ave
This Scarborough Value Village is a favourite for many. It’s known to have a great selection of name brands and high-end finds but obviously, there are no guarantees when it comes to thrifting. However, a lot of people have had a good record of success at this location, plus, it’s one of Value Village’s larger locations, so there’s more to go around.
10620 Yonge St, Richmond Hill
This gem of a Value Village is located in Richmond Hill and has a large selection with tons of variety across all genres — not just limited to apparel. This spot is also known to be very clean and tidy, which seems to be a running trend in the best Value Villages!
50 Horseshoe Crescent, Hamilton
This GTA Value Village is a little bit off to the sides in the suburbs, which is a general thrifting life hack! Some of the best Value Village locations are hidden in smaller cities, or hidden in the suburbs because in general, they are picked over less. Let’s face it, thrifting isn’t a secret anymore and people are quick to grab the good finds, so sometimes searching through a lesser-known Value Village is worth it!
924 Queen St E, Toronto
Although this location is on the smaller side, that doesn’t mean you can’t score. This VV tends to be busier, but that just means it’s constantly rotating inventory. Another great thing about this one is that it’s in such a prime area of the city, which means people are constantly donating here. This location has a great jewelry selection in particular, which is a great tip for those of you looking to build your jewelry collection! Value Village is a great way to get more with your budget. Pro tip: there are often quality pieces behind the glass at the front.
1319 Bloor St W, Toronto
This Toronto Value Village located on Bloor Street West has a great reputation for its great selection! While this location is on the busier side, folks say there’s a quick turnaround with clothing constantly coming out on the floor as fast as it leaves. So, if you don’t mind a little competition from savvy thrifters, check out this Value Village location!
45 Woodbine Downs Blvd, Toronto
This Value Village is located in the Etobicoke area and is another one totally worth checking out. People say the prices at this location are on point as well and there’s also a great selection — what more could you want in a thrift store? This location also has a ton of inventory and is quite organized for the amount of inventory, as well.
530 Fennell Ave E, Hamilton
This Hamilton Value Village is a large location with tons to go around! Every department at this VV is almost always fully stocked, so if you’re looking to go on a bit of a shopping spree this one may be worth checking out.
1030 Wilson Ave, North York
This GTA Value Village in North York is a VV location with a huge selection, and it’s not limited to just clothing! Always remember Value Village also carries books, movies, video games, furniture, and more. This spot is super spacious which always makes it easier to sift through and spot those rare thrift finds we are all keeping an eye out for.
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At StyleDemocracy, we know shopping! We deliver the scoop on all things retail related including how to get the best value at your fave stores. Hidden offerings, insider secrets, and the ultimate savings are what we live for!
Here are things every Value Village shopper needs to know.
1. Sign up for the Super Savers Club Card
Be sure to pick up a Super Savers Club Card the next time you’re leaving Value Village. You’ll get an initial 25 per cent off discount coupon after you register the card online, but you’ll also get information on special sale events, members-only coupons and birthday offers. By getting a club card, you’ll stay up to date on what’s happening at your local Value Village.
2. Donate!
When you donate items at Value Village, it translates into revenue for their 140 nonprofit partners across Canada, the U.S. and Australia. But of course, there’s something in it for you! When you donate your gently worn clothes, Value Village will give you a coupon for a specified dollar amount off your purchase of $10 or more. This way you can feel good about buying more clothes.
3. Give Yourself Enough Time
Value Village is not a quick, in-and-out experience. It takes time to dig through all the racks of clothing and then even more time trying the clothes on and then deciding what to buy. Allocate yourself a couple of hours to thrift through the store to ensure you find what you’re looking for. Grab your girlfriends and make an afternoon of it! They’ll also provide you with a second opinion on pieces you aren’t quite sure of.
4. Watch the Tags
The tags at Value Village are basically a secret sale code. The tags are colour coded to reflect when an item came in and each week a different coloured tag is on sale. Usually, it is announced over the loudspeaker what colour tag is on sale, but the employees are happy to tell you as well. So ask away and start doing some major savings!
5. The Dry Cleaner and Tailor are Your Friends
Regardless of which Value Village you go to, there’s a certain smell that is bound to hit you at some point during your shopping experience. But don’t be afraid, because it’s just the smell of clothes that need a good wash. They’ll be good as new after a round at the dry cleaners so don’t let the smell deter you. Sometimes you have to endure that smell in order to find that perfect piece you’ve been looking for. And befriend a tailor, too! If you find a piece you love but, let’s say, the shoulders are too big or the legs are too wide, take it to the tailor! Investing an extra $10 in something you’ll wear time and time again is always worth it.
6. Keep an Open Mind
When thrifting, you’re bound to find a few crazy items – it’s the nature of Value Village. But sometimes you find something that’s so crazy it just might work. It’s something you laugh at for being so out there but you feel guilty for not having the courage to pull it off yourself. Well put that item in your cart and give it a shot! Value Village is the place for taking risks; it’s a place where you can mix and match things you would have never thought possible. So keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to try on certain items.
7. Look for Problems
Now, don’t be a Negative Nancy or anything, but when it comes to thrift shopping it’s best to expect the worst. Say you find a gorgeous designer dress… but why did someone want to give away an article of clothing so seemingly perfect in the first place? Maybe there’s a huge stain on it. Or the zipper doesn’t work. Regardless, be sure to examine everything carefully. There’s nothing worse than getting a new item home and realizing it has an unfixable issue.
8. Shop Off-Season
Rather than heading to Value Village at the same time as everyone else, try shopping at non-peak times. Many off-season items are on sale during their opposite season, such as sandals in winter. They may not be marked on sale, but the prices are often lower than if you try to buy them during the season. You won’t get to wear them right away, but when the right season finally rolls around, you’ll be thankful you bought those sandals at half off when you did.
9. Know Good Value
Not every item you find at Value Village is going to be a home run. Yes, there are diamonds in the rough, but it’s a long journey through multiple racks of clothes to get to said diamonds. With practice, you should become familiar with what’s good quality and what is worth leaving behind. A polyester sweater isn’t going to hold up like a cashmere one. Pay attention, know quality when you see it.
10. Shop With a Goal in Mind
In need of more clothes for work? Shopping for staple items? Or just looking for a signature piece to add to your wardrobe? Whatever the reason, a great way to navigate Value Village is by shopping with a goal in mind. Don’t go in with your head in the clouds or you’ll be sure to get lost amongst the racks. When going in with a goal, you are more likely to find what you’re looking for.
11. Check Out A Couple Of Locations
If you’re planning on making a trip to Value Village, try and head over earlier in the day since a lot of the items get picked over by the evening. Plus, try and visit a couple of locations on your shopping adventure, to make it worthwhile. Sometimes you may not find what you’re looking for at just one spot. Enjoy more of a selection to browse through and score awesome deals.
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