Balling on a budget: The best thrift stores in Richmond

What’s trending on campuses across the nation? Thrift shopping. Balling on a budget is hard in college, but this list of Richmond shops may be your ticket for that next social outfit. Check out the store that works for you and grab some friends for some ultimate Macklemore-style thrift shopping. 

West End 

Indigo Avenue / This is my go-to shop right off campus and all-time favorite. A consignment store located across from the Tuckahoe Village shopping center, Indigo Avenue offers a variety of gently used women’s clothing. Lots of brands -- from Anthropologie, to Free People, to Frye and more -- can be found here.

Looking for a great place to consign? Search no further, because Indigo Avenue makes it easy to become a vendor. Get a monthly check for any items that sell and use it toward store credit or more shopping funds! 

Finicky Fox / The prep student’s dream: Finicky Fox is located in Gayton Crossing and has been outfitting Richmond for over seven years. The small shop offers a wide selection of brands oriented toward the New England Prep style. J. Crew, Ann Taylor and Lilly Pulitzer are just a few of the many treasured brands that this store offers.  

Carytown 

Clementine / Operating in the heart of Carytown, Clementine, along with its sister shops Clover and Ashby, gives a vibrant display of posh brands that make the perfect statement on campus any time of the year. Living on a college budget can be tough, but Clementine’s prices on brands such as Barbour, Burberry, Kate Spade and Tory Burch make it easy to shop on a budget. 

Ashby / Known and loved by many students at the University of Richmond, Ashby has a mix of local Richmond maker pop-ups and consigned clothing. Everything from statement jewelry to shoes to clothes can be found in this indy-themed store. Reasonably priced and gently worn clothing can stock closets with the newest trends for men and women.  

Buffalo Exchange / Offering the largest variety of clothing and brands in Carytown, Buffalo Exchange just opened its doors in Richmond this fall. Don’t be overwhelmed by the selection, though -- every rack is categorized by style or type of clothing. Check out its newest trade-ins for your next winter wardrobe piece. 

Short Pump 

Uptown Cheapskate / Uptown girl… 

Okay, but seriously, this place is one of my favorites. Similar to Ashby, Uptown Cheapskate has a variety of new and used jewelry, shoes and clothes. With options for men and women, the store is a sure seller for anyone. 

Want cash up-front? Yep, they’ll offer you that, too. Bring in any gently used clothes from brands such as lululemon, Nike, Free People, American Eagle, Urban Outfitters and more and get cash in exchange for your wares. The best part? You can shop while you wait! 

Goodwill / Ah, yes. Almost every town has one, and it’s become the thrift-shopping hub. You name it. Goodwill probably has it. 

You know the drill. Each rack is organized by clothing type and laid out in a beautiful array of seasonal variety. With great prices and staple closet items, Goodwill will almost never let you down. 

Pro tip: Check out its selection of Levi's jeans for all of your DIY distressing needs. 

Hopefully, this list will spark a weekend adventure. Make it a day, shop around Carytown and eat a meal at one of its many restaurants. Or, head out to Short Pump and hit up the mall after stopping by those consignment-deal stores. 

Maybe you’ll even discover the dream piece you’ve been searching for.

Contact senior lifestyle writer Emma Phelps at emma.phelps@richmond.edu.