An increasing number of thrift and vintage stores have been popping up across Philadelphia. Why is thrifting becoming so popular amongst consumers and the FSS student body? 

Thrifting is the act of purchasing previously owned items at a lower cost. This includes many different types of second-hand clothing stores, but isn’t limited to consignment shops, vintage stores, flea markets, and other upcycling stores. Thrift stores have been around for years, offering budget-friendly alternatives for many. In more recent years, thrifting has grown in popularity as the market for second-hand clothing expands. According to Capital One Shopping Research, “Since 2018, the U.S. secondhand market has grown by 143.5%.”

When FSS Upper School students were surveyed on how often they go thrifting, 44% of 41 respondents said they go thrifting at least once a month, and 19.5% said they go three times or more in a month. Based on these results, thrifting is a relatively popular pastime in the FSS community. Additionally, 63% of respondents reported that when they do go thrifting, they often go with friends or family. 

There are a multitude of reasons for thrifting’s increase in popularity. According to a PBS report from 2025, thrifting is “becoming more popular as shoppers deal with rising costs of living”. For Friends Select students, the rise in popularity can be attributed to many factors, including financial, environmental, and the desire for a unique style. “I love finding clothes that were popular from a little while back, or hidden gems you might not find in normal stores,” said Olivia Jackson Grant ‘28. “Also, it’s really cheap.” 

“Thrifting used to be known as something to help people save money, but today thrifting has become massively popular, and there are even festivals and large events dedicated to thrifting,”  Maya Vakharia ‘26 explained. “For some people, it can be considered a hobby, especially if they are into fashion or vintage clothes.” 

There are many notable thrift stores in Philadelphia, but according to survey data, the three most popular among FSS students are 2nd Street, Trashed Vintage, and Buffalo Exchange.

The chain thrift store, 2nd Street, started in Kagawa, Japan, in 1996 and spread to the U.S in 2018. There are currently over 40 locations across the United States. It’s known for carrying a wide range of items and for allowing customers to sell their clothes for cash.

Trashed Vintage is a local vintage store located on Marlborough and Girard Ave. Although it doesn’t have an online presence, it’s known for its one-of-a-kind pieces. 

Buffalo Exchange is another chain thrift store and was first opened in 1974 in Tucson, Arizona. The store’s popularity grew widely on the West Coast, with 19 locations by the early 1990s. Buffalo Exchange is known for its seasonal $1 sale and sustainable “Buy, Sell, Trade” motto. Elsa Foote ‘27 said, “Whenever I walk in [Buffalo Exchange], I get blasted with levels of dopamine because I never know what I’m going to find.” 

Some other thrift/vintage stores students recommend: 

• Philly Aids Thrift 710 S 5th St
• Urban Exchange 1868 Frankford Ave
• Circle Thrift 2233 Frankford Ave
• Headhouse Flea Market 2nd and Lombard St
• 2A Thrift Various Locations