vintage shopping

14 independent thrift stores to explore in Ottawa

Thrifting isn’t just budget-friendly — it’s a stylish way to shop sustainably and support a circular economy. It’s also a chance to embrace conscious consumption, reduce waste and extend the life of well-made items. Ottawa’s growing selection of independent thrift stores, curated vintage boutiques and secondhand shops offers something for every kind of shopper. Whether you're after rare finds, retro vibes or staples for your capsule closet, this guide spotlights some of the best spots in the city.

Each thrift store has its own character, from streetwear to statement pieces to everyday classics, but all contribute to a vibrant culture of sustainable fashion and community-minded shopping in Ottawa.

ByWard Market: Sustainable fashion and secondhand statement pieces

Darling Vintage

Now located in the heart of the ByWard Market, Darling Vintage is beloved for its standout dress collection, from formal gowns to casual frocks. Don’t miss their colourful, ever-changing window displays. They’re also part of a growing sustainable fashion block alongside Adorit and FrouFrou by Pat, forming a hub for secondhand style in the market.

Adorit Boutique

Primarily a sustainable fashion boutique with in-house designs, Adorit also features a small but mighty curated thrift section. Look for ethically made pieces, upcycled items and accessories with purpose.

FrouFrou by Pat

This playful boutique adds a spark of fun to the street with dynamic window displays and sidewalk sales. Inside FrouFrou by Pat, you'll find a mix of in-house designs and secondhand pieces in styles ranging from elegant to eccentric.

Clothes Encounters of a Second Time

Just a short walk from the ByWard Market, this Beechwood favourite pairs thrifting with community aid. Founded in the 1980s to support Vietnamese refugees, Clothes Encounters continues to give back to newcomer communities while offering an eclectic mix of men’s and women’s fashion. Expect a fresh selection every visit — all supporting sustainability and community care.

Centretown: Curated vintage clothing and capsule closet finds

Bellwethers Vintage

Step into a pastel-hued dream on Florence Street. Bellwethers is known for its bohemian prints, 1960s silhouettes and exceptional styling. Their curated selection and welcoming vibe keep shoppers coming back for both everyday looks and standout vintage pieces. A perfect stop for anyone building a capsule closet with timeless finds.

Past Lives Thrift

Focused on 90s and 2000s fashion, Past Lives offers curated drops, upcycled collections and effortlessly cool pieces. Think hipster-adjacent with an artistic edge — ideal for finding something trendy and wearable.

Ragtime Vintage

An Ottawa institution since 1978, Ragtime is packed with pieces you won’t find elsewhere — picture a 40s suit next to an 80s trench coat.  Tucked just off Bank Street, it’s a true gem for vintage lovers looking to make a statement.

Last Unicorn

Mob wife energy meets downtown edge. This boutique blends oversized coats, slinky dresses and bold boots for looks that are both feminine and ferocious. A go-to for outerwear and accessories that stand out.

Lainey’s Luck

Vintage clothing by the pound – a thrifter’s delight. Lainey’s features racks of handpicked items and bins of clothing priced by weight, ideal for bargain hunters looking to stretch their style budget. It’s a hands-on thrifting experience with high reward.

The Glebe: Playful secondhand streetwear and bold vintage

Goody Mart

Bright colours, 80s and 90s nostalgia and a sense of humour make Goody Mart stand out. Think Looney Tunes merch, vintage records and pop culture finds — plus the occasional Britney Spears cutout or life-sized movie star surprise. Ideal for casual thrifters with a penchant for drama.

The Jungle

This bold boutique leans into vintage streetwear with oversized denim, graphic tees, sports jerseys and Y2K sundresses. A reliable stop for statement street looks and expressive secondhand finds. Find The Jungle on Bank St. 

Wellington West: Community-focused thrift stores and affordable basics

Tribe Co. / Next Door

This fashion-forward shop pairs secondhand clothing with contemporary and avant-garde looks. With knowledgeable staff and a thoughtful layout, Tribe Co. helps shoppers explore personal style and build intentional wardrobes. Check out their event space, Next Door for unique markets, workshops or even the occasional roller disco!

The Recollective

Formerly known as PreLoved Ottawa, The Recollective is a curated second hand and consignment store in Wellington West specializing in gently worn fashion and designer accessories. Owned by sisters Carla and Kelly Bourada, the boutique promotes sustainable fashion through quality pieces and purse rentals, making it a stylish stop for conscious shoppers.

Thrive Thrift

A quick drive or transit from Westboro, Thrive Thrift emphasizes accessibility and is a locals’ pick for reliable selection and great prices. This no-frills thrift store provides gently used clothing and everyday essentials at great prices. Perfect for casual thrifting or rounding out your seasonal wardrobe.

Sustainable fashion events in Ottawa

Ottawa’s sustainable fashion scene goes beyond storefronts. Pop-ups and swaps offer an interactive way to refresh your wardrobe, save money and participate in conscious consumption. Keep an eye out for:

  • Adorit or Swap It a regular clothing swap hosted by Adorit’s owner
  • Clothing swaps hosted by House of Targ
  • Local markets like 613flea and Fly Market, which feature vendors selling vintage clothing and other secondhand treasures

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