Incredibly overpriced and unwelcoming. I was a little confused by the barrage of demands taped to the door but I figured there was probably a good reason for them. Maybe they have an incredible, high demand selection? I jiggled the handle before realizing that you have to ring a doorbell to be allowed in. When the employee opened the door I was expecting an introduction or welcome. Didn't receive one. They seemed irritated that I had jiggled the handle. The employee proceeded to call me "jittery" and told me to "chill out". I was acting awkward because their rudeness made me uncomfortable. They kept mentioning that they are a "curated designer vintage shop" so they have expectations for how customers should behave. Kept asking about my budget and suggesting the sale rack. There were nice (still overpriced) vintage pieces but also lots of shockingly expensive modern costume pieces. Super weird, rude vibe and insanely expensive for what they were offering. I was grateful that another customer came in so I could leave the store while the employee was distracted. I've worked retail and service my whole life. I understand having boundaries and signs to communicate expectations with customers but this was overkill. read more

Big Bertha's Paradise - Front door - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Austin, Texas

Traveled to Austin with four of my friends to go shopping for my birthday, excited to look at some luxury fashion finds. Entered the store with a smile. There were two gentlemen behind the front desk. One asked what I was looking for. I said I was looking for some eyeglass frames, which they recommended another store. I also mentioned something about us looking around before our flight. Wanting to still explore the store, I complimented the store, and politely asked if they wouldn't mind telling me a bit about their store. All of a sudden, one person behind the desk stated that he was too old for this, and that he just didn't feel like talking, and said it's his day off. The other person with him didn't say anything, so I just walked away, and then decided to call and Uber and leave the area. Having spent much of my working career with critically ill people who are often having the worst days of their lives, I can admit to many moments where I am super tired and frustrated with things in my own life, and understand needing to take a step away, have a minute to regroup, take a breather etc. But how am I supposed to know it's your day off if you're behind the counter, and asked me what I was looking for? what about the other person who I'm assuming was working..couldn't they have chosen to just say a few words? If they felt I was looking for a long explanation, I think a reply saying something like I'll give you the short version would have sufficed. It did made me wonder what it was about me and friends that made it seem appropriate to reply in that manner. Is the attitude some type of gimmick I'm not aware of? Im not necessarily angry, Just felt disappointed. Made me wonder what I had to look like to get treated nicely. Maybe it's the fact half my outfit is from Costco, the other half from Marshall's. (I'm still quite proud of all that). And my friend was carrying her Vera Bradley luggage haha. Well who knows, and I do see the work put into that store and am assuming there's a lot of thought and talent put into it. So take what you will, I think this review is more of a reflection of my confusion. Either way, the rest of my time in Austin was absolutely divine and people were kind and interesting! read more

We showed up as the owner was opening up and were going to visit Forbidden Fruit while he got set up. He told us we couldn't park in front of his store because he needed the spot for customers. We moved our motorcycles to the lot just behind the store and went on our way. Decided not to stop in since he was so rude. Maybe he just hates Latinas on bikes. read more

I brought a vacationing friend to North Loop to shop, and get the Austin vibe. My friend deals in vintage Rock tees, vinyl, ephemera, and is a huge fan of stores that feature the same. We walked into BBP, spotted a vintage tour t-shirt, and started to check the label for price. One of the workers snapped, Pretty Woman clerk style, "um, that's $450," with a tone of, "and you can't afford it." In a good-natured jest, my friend tried to break the ice and said, "I'll give you fifty bucks for it..." fully intending to share her own vast and varied experience with inventory worth more than customers expect. Before she could engage this "worker," s/he snapped back, "that's NOT how you support a business honey, and especially a business like THIS." Tootsie, you work at a vintage store. And judging from the other reviews here referencing your shortcomings, YOU are the one devaluing the business. Your attitude changes how the store is perceived. It went from curated to cluttered pretty quickly. We left to spend our money elsewhere, and apparently we aren't the only ones. As we walked out, my friend said to me she was sorry she didn't shoot back, "do you take cash?" Point is- exchanges like this make it impossible to connect as a community, they take away from a visitor's experience, and devalue the Austin vibe as a whole. read more

This place is truly a gem! Didn't have tons to spend but I loved looking at all the true vintage and designer pieces here. It is a beautifully curated selection, and the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable. Even got a deal on some earrings! Obviously don't come if you're only looking for cheap thrift store prices, but there's a sign saying this too. Great place for anyone with a larger budget or anyone that appreciates curated designer and vintage. read more

Horrible experience. Was vintage shopping with a friend, tried opening the door without noticing that there was a sign instructing customers to ring the door bell. I was greeted by an extremely rude and hostile shop worker, ripping open the door and saying, "You have to ring the bell. I don't know why people don't think that they don't have to read the sign. You really shouldn't just pull on the door handle," in a super demeaning and condescending tone. Felt extremely uncomfortable and talked down too, even after I was apologetic for my mistake of trying to open the business door... once again simply just tried opening the door. Can confirm that the other reviews are valid and will never be returning to this location. I never usually leave yelp reviews but this shop was deserving of a negative one. Learn how to treat people with kindness please and thank you. read more

THIS PLACE DESERVES ZERO STARS AND NO CUSTOMERS ! SUCH RUDE CUSTOMER SERICE AND AN UNCOMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE! I asked the worker if the store sold vintage designer and he responded in a rude manner as if I should already know the purpose of the store. Felt like I was being judged the entire time I was there, please don't come. read more

Terrible place. When arriving you're greeted with an aggressive poster on the front door describing things you MUST NOT DO, as if you're walking into a group home. Extremely rude owner, doesn't seem to actually want customers? As you leave he barks AND DON'T FORGET TO MOVE YOUR CAR, even if you've just dropped $3k there, and want to check out the store next door. Prices are wild, and most items can be found on eBay for 1/10th of the price. This whole row could be so much nicer if this store closed down. read more

Deceitful owner who charges you 4 times what something is worth. Stay far away from this place. Bought many items from this place only to find out years later, Henry charged me way more than the item is worth. Had a lot of jewelry flat out break. I trusted you, Henry. Absolute snake. read more

The pieces in this store are one of a kind and truly works of art. I have visited the store many times and made frequent purchases. I do however question going into the store because of the young worker in there. They are by far the rudest individual I have ever encountered. They told me to me to, "get out of their way" while walking through the most narrow walkway. Not to mention incessant death stares. I cannot dispute how gorgeous the items are. A word of caution: you may get berated in the process. Customer service is important or just being a decent human being. One star for a business that tolerates this inhumane treatment of customers. read more

Horrific experience. Worst customer service I have ever experienced. Was basically kicked out because we didn't purchase what we touched. Wondering if the owner did not like that we were of a different ethnicity: would not recommend this place at all. read more

The owner literally said "thank god they're gone" the moment my friends and I walked out of the store after being there for less than 5 mins. Beyond rude and absolutely unnecessary, would not recommend. read more

Boring and pretentious. The staff is incredibly rude. Haven't been here in a few months... still the same clothes! A few years ago I bought some lovely pieces here, but now? NOTHING... Absolutely picked through and overpriced. Avoid it unless you want to be spoken down to. Will not be coming back. read more

I can't believe this place is still open. It's stupid expensive and the staff are extremely rude, especially the older guy who I'm assuming is the owner. I've tried twice and get bad vibes from them and they know nothing about how to treat customers. read more

The shop is well curated and has a lot of fabulous pieces. I just don't understand some of the pricing though because some of them seemed oddly priced. Like there's this very elegant and sexy hand beaded dress which cost around $200 or cheaper then there's this plain slip on dress that cost a thousand bucks (although, I get why this is). Henry was a darling though! He chose some pieces himself for me to try on and even gave styling tips. It was a delightful experience being dolled up. 4 stars only coz of price. read more

Big Bertha's Paradise - Store front. I'm worried that the clothing outside will fade coz of too much sun exposure. Haha - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Austin, Texas

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My daughter and her friend just visited Big Bertha's on their Austin vintage store tour. He has absolutely NO IDEA how much money he just lost. They are taking their money elsewhere. He should not ask people to leave based on his personal judgement of socioeconomic status. He obviously doesn't know who he is dealing with. The clothes are fabulous, but they were not even allowed to try anything on. read more

Don't come here unless you're middle-aged and look like you have money. When I asked to try on a top he asked me if I was just going to take pictures of myself in it. When I said no he asked if I was going to buy it. That is not something you should EVER ask a customer. Only when I came to the register to purchase it did he start acting nice to me like he was with the other customers, complimenting my looks and asking where I was from. Truly pretentious and scummy, but they have cute stuff. read more

Super judgmental for absolutely I reason..... and very very very rude. Wish I read the review before walked in....

I always drive past this store on my way home and for the last months I've been excited to stop by and check it out. When I finally did, it was very unfortunate that I had the negative experience that I did. I had heard that the store is a high end vintage store and was fully prepared to make that kind of purchase. However, when I entered the store and was in search of the perfect dress for an upcoming event that I have to go to in Vegas, the young man working was a complete a**hole to me- A SHOPPING CUSTOMER- without any hint of professionalism. Let me explain a little further, he was 1. Not helpful whatsoever and stayed behind the counter the entire time, 2. When I'd ask him questions, he would be on his phone and seemed uninterested in my interest to make purchases, and 3. (The worst one) when I asked to try on the dress I fell in love with, his response was "That's $2000" and scoffed.. not really allowing me to try on the dress.. Never in my life, had I experienced something so low like that. If I were the owner of this place, I would have this guy fired in a heartbeat for his clear lack in customer service and sales. As soon as that happened, I took my business elsewhere and it's unfortunate that he cost the owner $5,000 because that's what I was willing to pay for the entire outfit I was in search of. Very disappointing experience and although the store is very well curated and have amazing pieces, I would never shop there again with the tasteless service that they present. read more

If a dream is a wish your heart makes, then a nightmare is what happens when you're dressed poorly. Make one of your dreams come true and visit HENRY at Big Bertha's; he will show you the value of what a skilled Stylist can do. Maybe some things cost more, but you will gain an education on what TRULY is vintage, and what is just crap, as well as the art of just being FINE!! Whether you're finding an outfit, or accessory, to out-do anything seen across the way at the Highball/Alamo-tastic events, or if you're looking for a fabulous FashionIsta frock that will literally turn heads...walk into Bertha's and your bound to walk out lookin' good. Like the dreamboat you always knew you could be. read more

My sister and I dropped in on a whim. Henry & John were fabulous! The store is filled with unique finds but Henry & John were the stars of the show. We even took pictures together. Can't wait to go back and visit! read more

Big Berthas has a cool collection but my experience with the staff has been awkward to very disappointing. One employee refused to sell me an item because a favorite customer who hadn't put it on hold *might* have been interested in buying it (he didn't bother asking the other customer if she was serious about buying). He tried to get me to buy several other things that didn't come close to what I was interested in and I ultimately left empty handed. In my experience, this isn't a good way to run a business, and I won't be chancing my afternoon shopping mood there again. read more

The shop looked pleasant from the outside, and when I stepped in I was delighted to see an array of vintage pieces spanning from the 20s-90s. The items were smartly curated and I found what I had been originally in search of. Unfortunately, the prices here were a bit out of my range and not exactly what I had expected from a vintage store. I would argue the prices fair for new or pristine pieces but these had the wear of time and minor flaws that were not reflected in the price. If this was the total of my experience I would give this store 4/5 stars. Unfortunately as my party was leaving, the man at the counter let slip "I wish I could tell these people never to come back, oops I just did!" I could not believe someone from my beloved home town could be so rude. Your wish has been granted sir, I will not be coming back. read more

Oh Big Bertha's Bargain Basement... You're neither big nor a bargain NOR a basement. Truth in advertising? I think not. However you do have an incredible selection of everything that I clearly need in my costume closet. Like showgirl headdresses Like vintage Boots Like big obnoxious cheap jewelry Like fur coats Like pretty cocktail dresses Like big hats Only you're too expensive and so I just leave unfulfilled and irritated that I dont make more money and without that showgirl headdress that I could have worn unrepentantly at SO many cocktail parties. read more

Sometimes I have to face facts, and occasionally my threads are, well...too new. Every once and again it's time to scratch that thrifting itch, and as I was over in the general vicinity of Big Bertha's and hadn't yet given them a whirl, I wandered in. A couple of quick notes: contrary to the description on the door, Big Bertha's is not in a basement. That might be creepy. In fact, this store resides at ground level. Additionally, I saw no one named Bertha there during my stay, and no one of exceptionally large girth, and in fact, I'd wager that I didn't see any clothes that fit the "big and tall" mode here. I did, however, come across some nifty little 70s numbers, some customized western and some acclaimed Wooderson-esque stitches that would have been right at home paired with a nice glass of Schlitz. Big Bertha's is a trip. It sounds like they've been here for ages (if I recall correctly the owner told me they opened in the mid nineties), and there is a definite style or character to the things he brings in here. And for my part? I walked with a polyester short sleeve number that I wore out on the town that very night. Nine bucks. And though I can't promise that every piece of clothing is that kind of bargain here, it was enough for me. Enough to consider some regular time travel. read more

I was one of two customers. I looking at some bags when the shop "asst" wanted to get by me. I didn't know where he was trying to get to, so he got impatient and said "Move, honey" -- are you serious??! I had a word with him and walked out. There's some pretty good 90s vintage but it's crammed and dusty and they know what they have it so it's not a bargain. Shop somewhere else. read more

So, I might not be so hard on this place with the name weren't such as misnomer. I'm guessing it's ironic and meant to be amusing. But, I didn't spot any bargains. I've mostly grown out of my vintage clothing phase, so I'm no longer quite as enamored by polyester house dresses, and a $48 price tag does nothing to help matters. (There were some designer formal dresses in the $200+ range.) That said, this petite shop crammed with interesting, entertaining clothes that all looked to be in good condition. And the service was friendly. So if you are into vintage and don't mind the prices, this could be a treasure chest. read more

This place had some fantastic pieces! Henry and John were very helpful, so much as calling and setting up a local tailor to alter a shirt I purchased. read more

Big - Nope Bertha - Never saw her. Bargain- Yes if you are a does not matter what you spend person. Basement -shopping strip mall place across High Ball Great for vintage clothes if you like cool looking 100 % Cotton or 100% Poly really cool looking clothes ,jewelery just wished I could afford it lots of small sizes if you wanna look like I did back in the 70;s this is he place PEACE NOT WAR! read more

Ummm...yeah, the name's a misnomer. The cheapest thing I saw were parasols. The front window looked pretty cool, but ~1k+ for a tulip table? For a place called the bargain basement it really made me think who would actually consider these bargains. I didn't see many things below $40. When I walked in, I thought this place was bigger than it actually was until I saw it was a mirror. The clothes seem to be the regular vintage fare, some of it may just be funky eclectic. One thing that really stuck out were the cocktail hats; really elaborate, still perdy expensive though. It's really small here, but the people are friendly. This place is worth a glance, and if it doesn't suit your fancy - Bitch'in Threads is right next door. read more

This spot has really amazing clothes! It's not inexpensive - but it is true designer vintage. I had my son with me and it's def not a baby friendly place so I need to go back solo. It's well curated & fabulous. I am glad it's here! read more

Take your fashion problems to Henry, the proprietor of Big Bertha's. He's a fashion genius who can put a look together that will have you fighting off the compliments. The place is not cheap but the treasures are amazing. I've been going to Big Bertha's since it opened years ago. One time wearing a Big Bertha's dress in Valencia Spain at the World Shakespeare Congress the woman sitting next to me looked me up and down and said "I'd kill for that dress." The best thing about the store in that last year is that Henry started his own line of one-of-a-kind jackets tearing apart some of the clothes and putting them back together in the most amazing collages. As of my birthday yesterday I own 2 of them, I used to be so happy with one. Now it's not just a vintage shop it's a wearable art gallery. Sometimes I go just for a jolt of creativity. read more

Luke needed a sweater, because Austin was windy windy windy. I was scouting for these lavender/lilac corduroys he has been talking so much about wanting. What he found was a suede vest that encouraged him to consider buying a different, more carmine, more tight-fitting suede vest later. I found a beaded, bejeweled girdle thing was heavy and gorgeous and fit like it was made for me - and it was also $86! Yikes. It looks like the proprietor has good taste indeed, and everything looked to be in prime condition, but for me, the space (especially the skirt rack) was a little cramped. Also, since I am used to being a thrift store queen/junk junkie myself, the price margin was pretty wild. read more

The best of 80's-90's high-end fashion, with the same prices as when they were brand new. If you have the money and the inclination to dress like a golden-era supermodel, this is an excellent shop to visit. The only problem is that the prices are exorbitant, and doesn't account for wear on the item. Perhaps a pristine pair of Miu Miu pumps might be worth $495, but not ones that have been through the wringer since 1994. The prices are baffling, but the selection is fantastic. They do not seem to stock clothing above a 6-8, though the rare Large or XL might slip in sometimes. The shopkeepers always seem so snooty, like they're running a museum and don't actually want to sell you the clothing. At least the older woman who ran the shop next door when they were still at Lamar had beautiful vintage at a decent price, and would be pleasant and helpful while you were shopping. read more

Ahhhmazing vintage clothing and accessories with ahhhmazing prices. Like, amazing as in I am flabbergasted by the prices. I knew I was in for some funny moments when the clearance rack outside had a used H&M dress for $40. Went inside and was excited to see great designer brands but almost everything I touched was over $200. So, if expensive vintage is your thing, Big Bertha's will be your bestie. read more

The collection of Vintage Couture in this shop is mind blowing. Everything and I mean EVERYTHING in there is so unique, interesting and beautiful. Ultimately it's gonna be expensive, that is to be expected. If you find a Chanel bag for less than that anywhere - it is not real. I tried on a Ferragamo jacket with brightly colored shoes all over it. It didn't really fit over my girls so I couldn't have had it anyway but I even still I had a crisis of faith. GORGEOUS AF!!! For some reason I kept trying to go on Monday when they're not open but finally today I made it! Henry was very sweet and obviously has impeccable taste. I will FOR SURE be back. read more

Located in the same plaza as Alamo Drafthouse on Lamar, this is one of the several thrift stores. At about 6:30-7:00, Big Bertha's and Bitchin' Threads were the only two stores open. Immediately after entering the store, the guy/manager, turned on the music to set the mood. The store is rather cozy with a pretty tight selection. The moment you step in, you are bombarded with racks of clothing. Most of the clothing is for men, at least from what I could see. The selection is diverse, ranging from old designer clothing to more contemporary wears. Get the pun? haha... ok... The guy gave me a decent discount after I talked to him a bit. He seemed very nice. The prices overall were pretty fair and definitely didn't leave me feeling cheated as I left the store. read more

This place is like a museum- for vintage. Every week, they have different stuff out to look at. There are some INSANE clothing/shoe/jewelry items (like pearl covered shoes) and some really affordable/wearable vintage. The guy that owns the place also makes his own high fashion designs out of wrecked vintage parts. It was cool to chat with him. Traffic almost don't exist on North Loop, so it's a nice spot. read more

BEST vintage in Austin. Yes it's pricey, but you get what you pay for. A highly curated, designer experience. Henry is an expert in the vintage biz and will source something for you if you ask. Beautiful, designer, one of a kind pieces. If you have a special occasion and don't want the usual off the rack dress, or just if the world is your runway and you love to stand out from the crowd - Big Bertha has your back! read more

This is the most expensive vintage store in Austin. In my opinion it's a bit overpriced by *local* standards, and some items from the 80s onward are overpriced, period. I never got a snooty vibe from them, but I understand why the average local shopper would feel uncomfortable here. Austin is a town where 60s poly blend dresses, 70s pearlsnaps, and 80s cutoff denim shorts (often scored for under $30) drive the local vintage industry...Big Bertha's simply isn't that kind of place. Instead this shop is comparable to the more expensive vintage stores of Southern California such as Gollyester; it's very LA in terms of selection and pricing. Consequently, you can expect a curation of scarcer, fine quality things - often with designer labels. If money is no object you won't regret going in. The owner has fabulous taste! And he's been in business for years, so he's obviously filling a niche. read more