Cool Vintage Finds: Top 5 Budget Thrifting Spots in Montreal

Kenza M

Published in
Montreal Must Do's
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October 3, 2024

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Montreal Must Do's
October 3, 2024

Cool Vintage Finds: Top 5 Budget Thrifting Spots in Montreal

Explore the vibrant thrifting scene in Montreal, where style meets sustainability! Discover how this affordable lifestyle caters to every taste, from vintage gems to modern flair. Join international students and young professionals in celebrating creativity while making eco-conscious choices. Each thrift store visit is a nostalgic journey through iconic styles, offering standout pieces that blend seamlessly with today’s trends. Dive into the heart of Montreal’s eclectic spirit and embrace the art of thrifting—where fashion, individuality, and sustainability unite!

Thrifting in Montreal isn’t just a hobby; it’s a vibrant lifestyle! The thrifting scene here is not only cool and affordable, but it’s bursting with options that cater to every style. It’s a go-to haven for international students and young professionals eager to express their unique flair without breaking the bank.

In this city, you can stay fresh and fashionable while keeping your budget intact! Plus, thrifting isn’t just about scoring great deals, t’s a powerful way to combat the environmental impact of fast fashion. Each trip to a thrift store feels like stepping into a time machine, offering a nostalgic journey through legendary styles from decades past.

Who doesn’t love a killer throwback? Every visit reveals standout pieces that resonate with today’s trends, allowing you to mix vintage charm with contemporary vibes. In Montreal, thrifting is more than shopping; it’s a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and individuality, a true reflection of the city’s eclectic spirit

From left to right; Linda Thorson 60's, Jimi hendrix70's, Madonna80's & The Spice Girls 90's. All fashion icons from their decades

Timeless Treasures: A Thrifting Journey Through the Decades:

From my perspective, these are the standout staples from each decade:

  • The 60s: Shift dresses with plain or vibrant colors and patterns, waist belts, and high-heeled boots. Some clothes became more unisex, shopped in the same boutiques as women.
  • The 70s:  ackets with hanging strips and chunky boots bell-bottom jeans that scream fun and offer a flattering fit, perfect for dancing at any groovy gathering!
  • The 80s: Puffy jackets steal the show—really, puffy everything! From shirts and hairstyles to mesh gloves and an abundance of jewelry like necklaces and bracelets, it’s all about embracing volume and making a bold statement!
  • The 90s: Mini skirts became a must-have, often paired with tank tops or graphic-tees & animal print patterns for that effortlessly cool look. Talk about nostalgic style!
  • The 2000s: Embrace the chic pop star vibe with cropped tops and playful accessories that capture youthful exuberance and fun.

Each of these pieces is a slice of fashion history, and thrifting gives you the chance to remix them with your own modern twist. So dive in with me, and I’ll introduce you to my top 5 thrift shops in Montreal! 🛍️✨

Boutique Eva B:

Inside the Boutique Eva B

Boutique Eva B, located in 2015 St Laurent Blvd, Montreal, Quebec , was the first thrift shop I ever visited in Montreal and honestly, my first thrifting experience ever! Back home in Mexico, thrifting and vintage finds aren’t really a thing. So, when my friends introduced me to this store, it was like stepping into heaven! I felt like I was in a Disney Channel movie, like I’d just stumbled into Hannah Montana’s closet! Such a cool moment for real.

The store itself is visually captivating, with dimmed lights creating a cozy vibe that draws you in. Art and decorations like vibrant graffiti, funky pictures, and mannequins showcasing eclectic outfits, making it feel like a creative wonderland. And then there’s the sheer amount of stuff, it’s absolutely wild! Shirts hanging from the ceiling (yes, even bras and panties, lol) t-shirts, pants, and skirts to accessories like hats, shoes, and belts. Plus, you’ll find books, bags, and necklaces tucked in every corner. They truly have something for everyone! But here’s the real kicker: Eva B is also a coffee shop! It’s such a vibe! They have delicious sandwiches, mouthwatering desserts, and amazing coffee. There’s a cozy dining area where you can relax and enjoy your food, plus a fantastic open terrace for soaking up the sun in the summer. I mean, who knew a thrift shop could be this cool? That’s why it’s my absolute favourite!

Their kitchen and some sandwhiches. They are soo good! 
Their terrace in summer, a complete must! It's so pretty

When it comes to prices, Eva B is incredibly affordable! I’ve scored some seriously awesome shirts, (great quality too) for just $7, $10, or $15! Accessories like earrings, bracelets, and belts start at only $1 CAD. You can find anything your heart desires, and with three floors packed to the brim, the treasure hunt never ends!

Here’s the scoop: I’m all about thrifting and can easily lose track of time hunting for gems. Sundays are my sacred day for this. I usually roll into Eva B around noon, grab a coffee, and soak up the vibe while I gather inspiration for my next finds. After that, it’s game on! I wander through the store for hours! I highly recommend, 10/10!

But what if I tell you that Eva B has a "fancy small little siste"... Ladies and agentlemans I present you:

Boutique Eva D:

Main entrance of the boutique

Located at 1611 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC, Eva D is just a block away from Eva B and serves as the stylish, "fancier" sister, think of it as a chic upgrade! It opened its doors in 2021, bringing a much more polished vibe to the table. While Eva B embraces that super funky urban street style, Eva D specializes in night-out outfits, trendy coats, and everything sparkly, velvety, or faux leather. If you're looking to elevate your wardrobe, this is the spot!

In terms of pricing, it’s a bit more upscale but still very reasonable. Accessories start at around $5 CAD, with shirts typically ranging from $15 to $20 CAD and up. And here’s the best part: both thrift shops have a fantastic selection for men! There’s a dedicated section for funky ties, shoes, caps, belts, pretty much everything! This isn’t just for the ladies; there’s something for everyone!

Cute lamp making a cozy vibe for the necklaces hanging around
Some of the type of clothes they have! We love the different colours and patterns

You should definitely check both out! There's always nice music playing and the staff is really friendly and eager to help you find what you need! 10/10

Renaissance (Fripe-Prix) -Mont Royal

A must in Montreal

Located at 3799 Rue Mont-Royal E, this trendy thrift shop is a must-visit for vintage lovers. Known for its curated selection,  Mont-Royal stands out by their large clothing section for all ages and likes! The shop features an array of unique pieces, from classic denim jackets to stylish outerwear and statement accessories. Big deal.

Their wide variety and clothes options

Marché Underground:

Located at 3731 Notre-Dame St W in Montreal, Marché Underground is a vibrant and eclectic marketplace that’s an absolute must-visit for anyone eager to dive into local culture and creativity. This unique space brings together a dynamic mix of vintage shops, artisanal boutiques, and pop-up stalls, all under one roof. Here, you can discover everything from trendy clothing and handmade jewelry to vintage vinyl records and gourmet food items.

This is a SICK underground market that literally has no end! You can find what ever you want! From super original lamps, house decorations, furniture like chairs, tables, caouches, shelves( all vintage/gothic or victorian style!). Really everything that you can think of, they have it! It's packed! This is a paradise for treasure hunters.

It's really a vibe in here!

What sets Marché Underground apart is its commitment to supporting local artists and entrepreneurs, making it a true celebration of Montreal’s diverse and dynamic culture. The lively atmosphere is often enhanced by events like craft fairs and live performances, turning the market into a bustling hub of community engagement. With a vibe for everyone—whether you’re hunting for unique treasures or simply soaking in the creative energy! Marché Underground is sure to inspire and delight with every visit!

A different variety of clothes, furniture, shoes and accessories. We love it all!

At Marché Underground, you'll find an incredible variety of items at prices that cater to every budget. Whether you're on the hunt for unique vintage finds, artisanal crafts, or gourmet treats, there’s something for everyone without breaking the bank. Vintage clothing and accessories often start at affordable prices, making it easy to snag a one-of-a-kind piece that adds flair to your wardrobe. Handmade jewelry and local artworks can be found at a range of prices, allowing you to invest in something special or simply treat yourself to a fun keepsake. Plus, the market regularly features special promotions and deals from its vendors, ensuring that you can enjoy the vibrant offerings without worrying about your wallet. Overall, Marché Underground is a treasure trove where quality meets accessibility, making it a perfect spot for both savvy shoppers and casual explorers!

100/100 you should really check it out! 

KILO-fripe

KILO-fripe is a hip store on Boulevard Saint-Laurent where great fashion and recycling meet. Not only does it bring old vintage clothes back to life, but it also promotes Montreal's emerging artists. Musicians, photographers, painters, and dancers are all welcome to perform at the store or at one of its many events, all taking place right there at KILO-fripe.

Visitors can discover vintage treasures with new arrivals every week!

There jackets & simple coats are simply TO DIE FOR! Soo cool, you may even find some real animal textures, synthetic, perfect for winter for real, extra warm & great quality! Price wise, you can really find everything but specially if it's real material expect of course a high price. But check their jackets out cuz they won't disappoint!

Like I said, their jackets & coats are amazing!

This store is a great option if you feel like upgrading to a cool-funky style!

In short, KILO-fripe is the perfect spot for those seeking unique vintage finds while supporting local artists. With its stylish offerings and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination that promises a delightful shopping experience. Discover your next favorite piece today!

Hey :) This is Kenza

So there you have it! My top five thrift shops in Montreal :) I was super excited to talk about this topic since i'm a passionate thrift shopper myself. Each store offers a distinctive experience that celebrates the city’s rich culture and creativity. Whether you're a seasoned thrifter or new to the scene, these unique spots are sure to inspire and delight. Thank you for joining me on this adventure. Happy thrifting, and may you find incredible treasures along the way!

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