The Ultimate Guide to the Best Op Shops and Thrift Stores in Sydney

Sydney's fashion scene is a wild, stylish beast—think high-end boutiques in Paddington, streetwear in Newtown, and vintage jackets strutting down King Street like they never went out of style (because they didn't). But if you want real character, real charm, and real bargains, it's time to ditch the malls and dive into the racks of Sydney's best op shops and thrift stores.

Woman trying vintage sweater vest while shopping at second hand store

Woman trying vintage sweater vest while shopping at second hand store

This city is made for thrifting. It's got history, it's got style, and every suburb has its own flavour of second-hand gold. And the best part? You don't need a fat wallet—just good timing, sharp eyes, and maybe a GoGet to zip between the inner west and the outer 'burbs without missing a single shop.

So grab a mate, load up the boot, and plan a full-day thrifting spree. Let's hit the racks!

1. Vinnies Newtown – Colourful Chaos and Retro Vibes

Right on King Street in the heart of Newtown, this Vinnies is more than just a second-hand store—it's a fashion playground. Packed to the rafters with everything from tartan skirts to streetwear, this shop nails that balance between chaos and charm. It's one of the best op shops in Sydney if you're after bold pieces with personality.

The racks here rotate fast, so you'll always find something fresh—think stylish sportswear, the odd pair of cowboy boots, and plenty of home goods. Vinnies Newtown is a must-shop for serious bargain hunters in Sydney's inner west.

2. Potts Point Vintage – A Dress-Up Dreamland

Walking into Potts Point Vintage feels like stepping backstage at a theatre—or into your fabulously eccentric aunt's wardrobe. This place leans hard into the costumey side of vintage, and that's exactly what makes it magic.

Feathered hats, sequinned gowns, opera coats, velvet everything—it's all here, unapologetically bold and dripping with drama. If you've got a themed party, a festival, or just a regular Tuesday that needs a little razzle-dazzle, this is the op shop to hit. It's not about blending in—it's about turning heads, strutting out, and owning the spotlight.

💡 Pro tip: GoGet vans aren’t just for moving house—you can also use one to carry home that full-length sequin cape or vintage coat rack you never planned on buying but couldn’t resist.

Browsing a vibrant rack of vintage clothes at a second-hand fashion market — perfect for Y2K outfits, retro denim, and sustainable shopping in Sydney’s best op shops.

Browsing a vibrant rack of vintage clothes at a second-hand fashion market — perfect for Y2K outfits, retro denim, and sustainable shopping in Sydney’s best op shops.

3. UTURN Recycled Fashion – Bondi and Beyond

With stores in Bondi, Rozelle, Surry Hills, and Newtown (plus a few others!), UTURN Recycled Fashion is a goldmine for lovers of bygone eras. These thrift stores have an eye for trends, with a strong mix of vintage pieces, retro denim, Y2K fashion, and well-known brands.

This isn't your average op shop—think boutique vibes with knock-off prices. UTURN's racks are colour-coded, making the hunt easier (and far more fun). It's Sydney's answer to stylish, sustainable shopping.

💡 Pro tip: Want to hit Bondi, Rozelle, and Surry Hills in one day? GoGet makes it easy to cover more ground—and carry more gear—without relying on public transport or hunting for parking.

4. Red Cross Shop – Glebe's Hidden Gem

Tucked in Glebe, just a short stroll from the markets, the Red Cross Shop Broadway is a masterclass in thrift-store elegance. Think quirky bric-a-bracs and homewares you didn't know you needed until you saw them. It's one of those second-hand stores where you'll walk in "just browsing" and leave with a full bag.

The racks are loaded with high-quality second-hand finds—from workwear to cocktail dresses—and everything in between. Glebe's Red Cross is perfect for shoppers wanting a clean, well-organised space that still offers the thrill of the thrift.

5. Salvos Stores – Punchbowl Power Picks

Out near Punchbowl, the Salvos Store Bankstown is a massive haven for anyone serious about thrifting. It's got a warehouse vibe, and the sheer volume of second-hand clothing, shoes, homewares, and furniture is almost overwhelming—in the best way possible. This store isn't some neatly curated boutique; it's full-on, dig-in style thrifting.

If you're after vintage clothing or a mix of high-street and designer gems, this is one of the best places to get your hands dirty and come out with serious loot. Fast fashion? Forget it. This is how you do sustainable shopping right in Sydney.

Bright, modern thrift store interior showcasing sustainable, second-hand fashion — just like Sydney’s top op shops and consignment stores, including Swop in Newtown and UTURN in Bondi.

Bright, modern thrift store interior showcasing sustainable, second-hand fashion — just like Sydney’s top op shops and consignment stores, including Swop in Newtown and UTURN in Bondi.

6. Swop – Newtown's Consignment Cool

If you're looking for something extra curated, Swop in Newtown takes thrift shopping to a whole new level. This consignment store is picky about what hits its racks, so everything has that on-trend, Insta-worthy feel. Think streetwear labels, '90s staples, and the kind of vintage clothing that turns heads.

Swop is perfect for thrifters who want style without the hunt. It's clean, minimalist, and organised. Every item here is pre-loved but feels new, and the store's stock rotation system keeps things fresh every visit. Op shops in Sydney don't get much cooler than this.

💡 Pro tip: Swop's curated style is perfect for last-minute party outfits. Grab a GoGet and swing by on your way out—it’s style on demand, no wardrobe stress required.

7. Di Nuovo – Designer Deals in Neutral Bay

Ready to level up your op-shopping? Di Nuovo in Neutral Bay is where Sydney's style-savvy consumers donate their high-end gear. We're talking designer dresses, premium workwear, and chic vintage pieces—all beautifully presented like a boutique.

It's not the cheapest spot on this list, but the value is still outstanding. If you want a splash of luxury without the full price tag, this is the place to do it. Di Nuovo is a shining example of how second-hand doesn't mean second-rate.

That Vintage Emporium – Alexandria's Retro Wonderland

Tucked away in the industrial backstreets of Alexandria, That Vintage Emporium is an absolute gem for anyone chasing high-quality second-hand finds with serious retro flair. This isn't your average thrift stop—it's a curated explosion of vintage clothing, funky furniture, rare homewares, and nostalgic knickknacks. If you love digging through history to find a one-off treasure, this place is your playground.

Every rack and shelf is loaded with pre-loved goodness—from '70s flared jeans and fur coats to tailored sportswear and colourful bric-a-bracs that'll take you straight back to Nan's lounge room. It's one of the best op shops in Sydney for discovering unique pieces that tell a story, and the team behind the counter knows their stuff—always up for a chat or a styling tip.

💡 Pro tip: Scored a vintage armchair or some nostalgic furniture? Book a GoGet van and skip the logistics drama—your boot’s got room for flair and function.

Busy second-hand clothing store filled with shoppers hunting for vintage treasures — capturing the lively spirit of Sydney’s best op shops and thrift stores.

Busy second-hand clothing store filled with shoppers hunting for vintage treasures — capturing the lively spirit of Sydney’s best op shops and thrift stores.

Final Thoughts: Your Sydney Thrift Map Starts Here

Whether you're into curated, small consignment shops, chaos-drenched costume stores, or anything in between, Sydney's got you sorted. With GoGet, renting a car to see 'em all is as easy as saying yes to that thing you didn't know you needed before you walked into the store. Select from hundreds of options around the Sydney area, and rest assured you'll have designated parking everywhere you go. 

Now, you're ready to discover unique looks, save serious cash, and do your part for the planet. Happy thrifting, legend.


Haul More, Stress Less with GoGet

Hunting down second-hand treasures? GoGet carshare makes it easy to zip across Sydney’s op shop circuit without the hassle. Book by the hour or day, pack the boot with vintage finds, and only pay for the time you need—now that’s a thrifty way to thrift.

Veronica Mackie

Veronica Mackie is a seasoned freelance writer with 10 years of experience, harnessing her degrees in English and Cultural Anthropology. A passionate climate activist, she integrates her environmental advocacy into her work. Veronica has travelled to over 30 countries worldwide and currently embraces the lifestyle of a global travelling housesitter. She currently resides in Victoria, Australia with her husband.

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