Best places for vintage shopping in Amsterdam
As a student, sometimes your taste can’t quite keep up with your student budget. Going to one of the fantastic thrift stores or markets in Amsterdam is an easy and sustainable solution to that problem. Amsterdam is the city of vintage shopping and treasure hunting. Check the shops in this article and do some serious digging. Be prepared; there are gems to be found.
IJ-Hallen
The IJ-Hallen is the biggest and most unique flea market in Europe. Because of the market size, supply and perfectly balanced items, you will have a great chance of finding what you are looking for. There are selling points from real vintage dealers alternated with stands from men and women selling their second-hand clothes for very small prices.
Waterlooplein market
One of the most famous flea markets in the Netherlands is the Waterlooplein Market. This is the place to pick up a bargain among pre-loved and vintage clothing, bikes and antiques. The market comprises all kinds of gems waiting for you to be found.
De Ruilhoek
De Ruilhoek is a modern second-hand clothing store, mainly selling brands from the higher segment for men and women. They place colorful pictures of their gems on their website and Instagram. Do you see an item you love? Come by and fit it directly in the store. The daily changing collection is strictly selected. Though not necessarily student-budget-friendly, highly curated vintage boutiques like De Ruilhoek are great for finding clothes you can invest in.
Episode
Episode is a popular chain of thrift shops throughout Amsterdam found in different locations in the city. The stores are clean, well-organized and relaxing to browse in. Everything from jeans and worker jackets to coats and sports sweaters, line the rails at Episode. The chain’s largest store is found on Waterlooplein and probably has the widest selection of vintage wares.
Zipper
It may appear relatively small from the streets, but once inside Zipper, you will discover one of the largest second-hand stores in Amsterdam. Featuring two huge floors crammed full of vintage clothing, separated by a mezzanine level with only accessories. The stores’ selection changes by the season and always include secondhand sportswear, formalwear, streetwear and accessories.
Kiloshop
Rather than labelling items with price tags, this store weighs items to determine their value. They have everything from 80s-style jumpers, jackets, sunglasses, and denim jeans. But high-end, branded clothing is also stashed among Kiloshop wares including items made by Levi or Ralph Lauren, so get rummaging!
BIS!
Between the Waterloopplein and the Nieuwmarkt under the arcade of the Sint Antoniesbreestraat, you will find BIS! Three vintage shops, each with their own atmosphere and authentic vintage collections. Be sure to visit the store at 25A, which specialises in military clothing. Here, you'll find army and navy classics, from different countries and periods, for those going for a utilitarian look or interested in collectables.
We Are Vintage
We Are Vintage has two stores in Amsterdam. Both usually feature a wide range of clothing from the 1970s to the 2000s. You will for sure find some unique pieces here. The store regularly updates its collections in response to current trends and changes its stock according to the season.
Mood Indigo
Mood Indigo goes the extra mile when it comes to denim and stocks many items that look almost brand new. This two-level store has an incredible selection of Levi 501s, western shirts and denim jackets.
Flea Market at Amsterdam Zuidas
Can’t get enough of vintage shopping? Sunday the 18th of September, our resident Luca organizes a Flea Market at Amsterdam Zuidas where you can sell your clothes, accessories and homeware. 1 free ticket is 1 spot to sell your items during the event. Residents from all buildings are welcome to visit this event. The Flea Market takes place from 13:00 to 16:00 at Student Experience Amsterdam Zuidas in the courtyard.