Transcending budget shopping and sustainability, thrifting has now become a vibrant trend mostly embraced by Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and fashion-forward individuals.
As such, in recent years, there has been a surge in local thrift stores popping up around KL & PJ, expanding the culture and creativity of these dynamic locations. These thrift stores offer affordable and unique finds and at the same time, they contribute to sustainable living. A win-win!
So, let’s get into it, why are we pro-thrifting? Raging as a trend, thrifting encourages individuality and acts as a catalyst for younger generations to engage with sustainability and environmental impact. In a time where there is a dire need to reduce waste and push for ethical practices, embracing thrifted fashion is an easy step forward where creativity thrives and resources are conserved.
Here are 6 distinctive thrift stores in KL and PJ that are not just ‘giving’ in terms of affordable treasures and aesthetics, but are helping shape a new narrative of conscious consumerism amongst youngsters.
1. 2nd Street Bundle
Image Credit: TTDI 2nd Street Bundle (Google Reviews)
This Klang-Valley-wide chain needs no introduction. 2nd Street Bundle has made waves in the thrifting scene, expanding to nearly 20 outlets as of this year.
You can get everything from clothes to shoes, and even handbags. They carry a good selection of quality items with brands like Uniqlo, H&M, Levi’s, and so much more. If you’re on the qui vive, you might just find a stellar bargain for an international brand.
They operate till 10pm, which is super convenient for those who are working, because you can still drop by after work. The price here starts as low as RM10 and can go up to above RM100 for their branded items. Occasionally, you can get a few things for below RM10, so keep your eyes peeled.
At certain outlets, you can even take your own pre-loved clothes to be assessed and sold to 2nd Street bundle for some quick change. Here’s a tip: they only accept clothes that are still in good condition and they can be picky about the brand selection.
2nd Street Bundle
Location: 19 Outlets
Operating Hours: Open Daily, 10:00am – 10:00pm
Price: Starts at RM10
Instagram: @2ndstreet_malaysia
Tiktok: @2ndstreetbundlemalaysia
2. LOOOP
Image Credit: LOOOP & Monica Tuntang (Google Reviews)
LOOOP is fairly new to the thrifting scene and is the brainchild of three best friends. The idea behind this consignment-based thrift store is to rehome preloved pieces, knowing full well that it will be in good hands.
As a customer, you are met with a unique thrifting experience because most of the pieces in-store have a little handwritten note attached from the previous owner, giving you some insight to the backstory of the item—like a special memory. We love this little personal element!
In an attempt to extend the life cycle of an item of clothing, LOOOP’s racks are filled with consigned items, with a focus on unique and timeless pieces. They too have a range of things; clothes, scarves, shoes, sunglasses, bags, and more. They have a very detailed consignment process which you can check out here if you are interested.
The store is spacious and not at all cluttered, which can sometimes be the case at thrift stores, making you feel overwhelmed. LOOOP has veered off the path of a conventional thrift store and is doing something different with their brand, check them out the next time you find yourself in TTDI.
They are relocating soon so make sure to follow their IG for updates on their new location.
LOOOP
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Friday 2:00pm – 9:00pm, Saturday 12:00pm – 7:00pm, Sunday and Monday 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Price Range: RM10 – RM300+
Instagram: @hellolooop
Tiktok: @hellolooop
Website: LOOOP
3. Meiisa Wear
Image Credit: Meiisa Wear (Google Reviews)
Tucked away in Shah Alam is Meiisa Wear, a thrift store that offers curated collections of clothing. This spot is aesthetic and spacious, with a ton of natural lighting. The interior gives you a classy boutique feel, prompting you to spend more time browsing their stock.
They offer a range of good quality pieces that look and feel practically brand new. Trendy and timeless is their thing. They have jackets, blouses, sweaters, dresses, skirts, pants and jeans, but their hot selling items are jeans and button up shirts. At Meiisa Wear you can even get a vintage parka jacket for as cheap as RM35!
They are active on IG and constantly post pieces that you can buy from the comfort of your home. Just take a screenshot from their IG and send them a message on Whatsapp, it’s as easy as that.
Meiisa Wear
Address: Level 1, 2, Jln Selasih H U12/H, Taman Cahaya Alam, 40710 Shah Alam, Selangor
Operating Hours: Open Daily, 11:00am – 6:00pm
Contact: 017-7705859
Price Range: RM15 – RM120
Instagram: @meiisawearstore
Online Shop IG: @meiisa.wear
Tiktok: @meiisa.wear
4. U Do U / udou.my
Image Credit: Amir Daniel & Chieng Agnes (Google Reviews)
This thrift store in Taman Paramount has nearly 150 Google reviews and still has a 5-star rating. They started off as an online store in Johor Bahru and have now relocated to a physical store. The interior sports an industrial vibe with a minimalist setup. It is close to impossible to feel overwhelmed and cluttered at this particular thrift store.
Throughout 2021-2023 they joined countless pop-ups around KL and Selangor to grow their brand. Here, they offer more trendy and niche pieces with an inclination towards street fashion. Think Billie Eilish core.
That’s not to say that you won’t find something you like if that is not your style. They have plenty of pieces for you to browse through and you never know what you may find tucked within the racks. They also have a quality range of vintage handbags and boots if that is something you’re interested in.
Are you a passenger princess? U Do You is only a 5-minute walk from the Taman Paramount LRT station, so don’t worry about not being able to drive there yourself.
U Do U
Address: 31, Jalan 20/13, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Friday 12:00pm – 7:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 12:00pm – 8:00pm, Closed on Mondays
Price Range: RM24 – RM78
Instagram: @udou.my
Tiktok: @udou.my
5. Jalan Jalan Japan
Image Credit: Rizal A Kudus & Andrew Ang (Google Reviews)
This is another thrift store that needs no prelude. With 7 outlets now, Jalan Jalan Japan is your one stop shop for literally anything bargain related. Here, you can get clothes, kitchenware, accessories, knick-knacks, shoes—you name it, they probably will have it.
Fun fact: the pre-loved goods are actually shipped-in directly from Japan. The outlets are so big, it almost feels like a factory sale. Everything is neatly arranged and labelled, but be prepared to roll up your sleeves and spend a few hours browsing through their extensive collection. This is definitely a spot you have to check out if you enjoy thrifting.
Jalan Jalan Japan
Location: 7 Outlets
Operating Hours: Open Daily, 10:00am – 10:00pm
Price: Starts at RM1
Instagram: @jalanjalanjapanofficial
Tiktok: @jalanjalanjapan
6. Jikaaa
Image Credit: Jikaaa Thrift Store
Last on our list we have Jikaaa Thrift Store, another Shah Alam addition. The clothes here appear to have a modest, vintage touch to them.
Unlike some places that prioritise women’s clothing, this one has a classy range of good quality mens clothing. From batik shirts to dressy button downs, you’ll definitely find something you like. Their selection of women’s clothing is just as extensive and unique, so fret not.
The store is on the smaller side but the racks are neatly arranged and they have clothes, shoes, accessories, and bags. They often have collaborations with @gadisvintage.co so keep a lookout for updates. It must be noted that the skirt collection at Jikaaa is elite, so for the girlies who love skirts, you have to check this place out.
Jikaaa
Address: 48-1, Jln Setia Perdana BB U13/BB, Alam Nusantara, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor
Operating Hours: 12:00pm – 8:00pm, Closed on Mondays
Contact: 018-6655535
Price Range: RM10 – RM80
Instagram: @jikaaadotcoo
Tiktok: @jikaaadotcoo
As thrifting gains momentum on our side of the world, local thrift stores are doing their best to match trends and meet standards. Unlike conventional retail, these six stores offer unique experiences and invite you to explore their racks and shelves, as you hunt for your next preloved find.
Thrifting as a trend not only influences personal style but in a way also redefines fashion and lifestyle choices, through promoting the reuse and recycling of clothes. It caters to diverse tastes, champions sustainability, and inspires the younger generations to make more mindful consumption choices, what’s not to love about it?
Embrace the thrill of thrifting because as we all know, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!
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