Thrifting Around SCU
Thrifting has drastically grown in popularity in the past few years. Due to its affordability, the push for sustainable and recyclable fashion, and the excitement of finding unique one-of-a-kind pieces, thrifting is a beneficial hobby to have. San Francisco is infamous for its distinctive thrift and vintage shops. Still, distance and high prices make it inaccessible for SCU students to go on a quick thrift run. So, I went around San Jose to 4 different thrift shops and rated them on the content level and price range to give everyone an insight into what’s popping around SCU!
Salvation Army 702 W Taylor Street, San Jose
PRICE RANGE: $
CONTENT LEVEL: For the most part, the clothes here are organized by type and color, but I had to comb through each row a few times to catch some good pieces. They accept every clothing donation so there are a lot of overworn or old-style pieces here, but I still ended up getting some really adorable finds! On certain Saturdays, all clothing is only $2 which is a huge deal!
2. Black and Brown 751 W San Carlos Street, San Jose
PRICE RANGE: $$$
CONTENT LEVEL: Black and Brown is the epitome of any trendy aesthetic throughout the decades, and I am able to tell that every piece is carefully chosen to be featured on the racks. They offer vintage clothes from the 20s all the way through the 90s that cater to every style. This place is a little bit more pricey than certain thrift stores, but if you’re willing to spend some money on flavorful pieces, Black and Brown is a great option!
3. Crossroads Trading 1959 W San Carlos St, San Jose
PRICE RANGE: $$
CONTENT LEVEL: For those who are looking for a store that supplies name brands but is also on a budget, Crossroads is a middle ground between high-end vintage and a donation thrift store. There are multiple types of brands sold there, ranging from Michael Kors to Brandy Melville.
4. Moon Zoom: 1630 W San Carlos St, San Jose
PRICE RANGE: $$
Moon Zoom is the staple location if you’re on the hunt for retro vintage pieces from before the 21st century. Slightly more affordable than Black and Brown, Moon Zoom provides a variety of pieces sorted by the decades. I personally think it’s great for Halloween or themed parties, or if you want to create a 20th century-inspired look.
