This place claims to be a recycled clothing store for imported and designer clothing. Imported they…read moremay be, but, although they stock some nice items and everything in good condition, I am not too sure about how many of them are actually designer brands. It's not what I would call jam-packed full of stuff, with the clothing lining only the walls of the store and some sort of dance floor (what else would that space be for?) in the middle. Even though the items may not belong on Anne Hathaway (the made-over version) in The Devil Wears Prada, there's no question they're good quality and reasonably priced. Everything is jumbled together with no apparent system, so you have to sort through everything to unearth that special piece, but that's half the fun.

Holy dooley. I was lucky enough to discover this treasure trove open on a Sunday. Welcome to…read moreWilston's Lifeline Supa Store. It's a two storey jungle of rare as hen's teeth second hand wares. On the lawn outside of the store, there was a $89 mint condition black leather wheelchair as well as a whole range of bikes, some for little ones, and some for adults. The rooms are decked out like small themed rooms, in a similar fashion to how some antique stores set out their goods for sale. The only difference is that you'll pay less than half the price you'd pay at an antique store. They've got a violin for sale there for $50, imitation Chasseur slow cookers for $59 (which is cheap, let me tell you), old school pentax and polaroid land cameras (enquire about prices) and vintage coffee percolators for $20. They've got loads of your standard op shop finds: a killer book and record collection, toys galore, and troves of crockery and cutlery. It's not a bad place to come looking for some new furniture either. They've got a lot of stuff that looks like it was taken from your grandma's house, but in saying that, there are some great retro finds in there. It's not great for clothes- it's more of a odds and ends, nic nacs kind of place. While you're upstairs take a look at the original, aged and worn wooden trusses that hold up the curved corrugated iron roof. I can assure you, if you dare go in here, you will walk out with something great and unexpected.

If you love op shopping, this is the David Jones of them. They have antiques n kitsch, furniture,…read moretoys, collectibles, books, clothes, shoes, cutlery, crockery, cookware, decor, paintings

The great thing about having a thrift store in a suburb filled with trendy and rich people is that…read morethey get some of the most awesome stuff. I always find some great clothes at Hey Hey It's Yesterday's Thrift Shop. Everything they sell is always in top-notch condition and at excellent prices. Hey Hey's is situated just a quick walk away from Rosalie village. It is fitted inside an old house which works perfectly in categorising the store. The store uses different "room" for separate things; there is an entire room devoted to men's wear a room devoted to children's wear toys and homewares and a room for ladies' wear. The staff seem to be pretty friendly to others but for some reason, I often get ignored when I enter the store, usually it is because they are busy serving other people so I don't mind that much.

I have to commend the effort and intentions behind Hey Hey It's Yesterday's Thrift Shop more than…read moreanything else. It's a little shop in Nash Street that sells every type of second-hand thing you could ever imagine. They have clothes, shoes, jewellery, handbags, and even sports equipment like bowling balls and hockey sticks, bless them. But the profits from these items don't even benefit the shop owners, they all go to benefit brain-injured children. You can't get more selfless than that. This shop is really a testament to the good people that run it, and they don't even charge much for their items. Books and videos are only $2, DVDs only $3. Everything is cheap as chips but goes to such a great cause. If you've ever visited Cold Rock or Grill'd at Rosalie, all you need to do is drive up a little bit more and you'll run into Hey Hey It's Yesterday's Thrift Shop. It's in an absolutely beautiful old burgundy-sort-of-coloured house. If you like vintage and feel like making a difference during the course of your day, amble on down and have a chat to the lovely ladies there. There is no eftpos, so bring your cash and your good intentions. You can also find them on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hey-Hey-Its-Yesterdays-Thrift-Shop/137976260515?sk=info

This is a much more student-friendly version of Retro Metro, offering vintage items at way cheaper…read moreprices. Extending a fair way back from where it tumbles out onto the footpath, the racks are packed with all sorts of men's and women's clothing. Lots of well known brands can be found here; I unearthed a Cooper St dress for only $10. Not all of the items are such bargains and the quality is not quite up to the same standard as the main store, but there's so much here that you're bound to find some sort of hidden treasure. The service is also very friendly; the guy working at the time was helpful without being pushy, something I think most people prefer. I think there aren't many things worse than an overly inquisitive shop assistant clearly intent on forcing you to make a purchase. If you're in the market for some vintage clothes, I suggest you check this place out before venturing to its more expensive counterpart. Because a lot of the store is outside, the opening hours are weather dependent. There is no phone number for this store, so if in doubt call the number listed above (for the main Retro Metro) and they'll be able to help you.

I used to walk past this place for years before I eventually went in. Whether I finally did was…read moreowing to a warming to second-hand clothing or an improvement in Retro Metro's stock, I'm not sure. But the stock is good. And cheap. Actually, thank God for Retro Metro. It is the one second-hand clothing store in Paddington that is not ridiculously overpriced. The clothing ranges from the horrible 1980s, the faded and almost-unidentifiable 90s and - most importantly - to the decent 70s-style clothing that's hip again. And, unlike many of its peers, the clothing is all of good quality and there's none of that musty-mothball smell. The store also boasts new stock - a few pieces from local designers with a slightly more expensive price tag (around $25 as compared to $10 for a second-hand maxi-style dress). A lot of this new stuff is excellent, and would be a big draw-card for fans of long, flowing dresses in modern prints. Inside the store are a few more zany, non-clothing items - gun holsters, books and intriguing little trinkets - and the respectful owner. He's a nice guy and once sold me a pile of books I liked the look of for $1. If you're at all open to the idea of second-hand clothing and/or cheap local designs, go here. I apologize in advance for the inevitable 2km walk from where you eventually find a car spot.

For an awful minute, I thought I wasn't going to be allowed inside this shop. I tried the door but…read moreit wouldn't open, then realised that I had to actually ring a bell to gain entry. I am not sure if this is so they can scrutinise your attire before they deem you acceptable to enter ((thank God I was wearing a lovely vintage leather midi-skirt), but I did find it very off-putting. And, to be honest, totally unnecessary. C'mon folks, it's a suburban Brisbane boutique, not Karl Lagerfeld's headquarters! Once inside the luxe environs (and yes, it is beautiful - and you can tell that they did base the opulent decore on the old-style French couture salons) I was told by the slightly superior shop assistant that you can find everything to dress you from the inside out. There's lingerie, high end hosiery, jewellery (I spied pieces by Ericson Beamon - I'm not sure anywhere else in Brisbane stocks that), bags, and of course an achingly expensive range of Little Black Dresses. When I was there they'd just received some newbies by Valentino). They only stock European designers - although one Aussie label did make the cut (Aurelio Costarella). Needless to say, the prices are not for the faint hearted. Nor for the really young and funky. Whilst the collections are carefully chosen and there are some beautiful pieces, I can imagine it would mainly appeal to the ladies-who-lunch set and the older members of Paddington's "society" crowd. I've given it 3 stars purely because of the quality of the clothes - if you're after a little slice of European chic, you'll get it here. But if I were you, I wouldn't turn up in flip flops and denim shorts...

For a taste of imported designer fashion in Brisbane this is the place to go. I visited to purchase…read moresome lingerie as they are one of the few retailers in Brisbane stocking french brands. If I had endless time and funds I would have found many special pieces to buy that I would not get anywhere else in Brisbane. The staff we're knowledgeable and I felt like they really wanted to help me find the perfect fit for me. A wonderful shopping experience.

By far one of my most favourite thrifting events on the calendar…read moreSuitcase rummage is THE place to sell your old wares (or to pick up new ones!) This market is heaving with cheap vintage, bric-a-brac, CD's, DVD's, comics, zines and all manner of art and craft. (I can guarantee you will need to set aside a full day to adequately peruse all that is on display.) If you are thinking of joining as a stallholder be aware that there are some stringent rules in place. For one you can't just mosey on off when you get a bit bored the organisers prowl around and insist you stay put til the 5pm close. NO stands, booths or clothes rails are allowed, everything has to be sold out of a suitcase (preferably vintage, to keep up with the aesthetics.) I've had stalls here a couple of times and can vouch for the friendly, low-hassle vibe about the place. The best aspect about these markets is the range of crafting goods that are available. Ideal for home or to give as unique gifts and all at bargain prices. A definite must-do in brisbane!

It says a lot about a person who can take the drab concrete Reddacliff Place and turn it into a…read morebuzzing bazaar of vintage knick-knacks, home made arts and crafts, second hand clothing and other various trinketry. Yet, on the first Sunday of every month, Suitcase Rummage does just that. From 11am til 5 a steady stream of loyal fans, curious wanderers and first time inspectors wander the markets where not a table is in sight. From the vintage to the modern day - everyone sells from a suitcase. There's a certain buzz at Suitcase Rummage, an atmosphere that I've not experienced anywhere else. With a coffee in hand, friends in tow it is the perfect way to spend a Sunday mid-morning. Prices are ridiculously reasonable (real op-shop prices. For example, $2 for second hand clothing, $5 for jeans at one stall) and there's even tea cup candles hand made by another seller. There's live music and I think if there were a few things like a coffee cart, and a few food stalls it'd be even better. A word to the wise, don't just pass by the stalls thinking you've seen all they have. This is a market where to find the best buys you'll have to get down and dig through the lot to find the good stuff!

Karene A is right, those looking for a second hand store experience that earns them hipster cred or…read morekitsch points should look elsewhere for their fix. That's not to say that you won't find items that fit that bill at the Red Hill Salvos Store but it's unlikely. Red Hill Salvos has been a spot I've spent many a hour searching for homewares, books and on the odd occasion kooky costumes for a 70s highschool teacher inspired photo shoot. This is the spot you come to if you're looking for something unique for your home- something that tells a story and stands out from the run of the mill flat pack furniture. On many occasions I've found (much to my delight) fantastic crystal pieces including small milk jugs perfect for the kitchen table, vases and other knick knacks for my home. If you're in the market for larger furniture items that tell a story and have a bucket load of character then be sure to wander into their back shed area where you'll find enough desks, dining tables, chairs and wardrobes to fit any decor or need. While I've done my fair share of 'shopping' here it has also been a fine spot to give items I no longer need a new home. Books, clothes and other kitchen items that I no longer need are donated to a good cause and handing them directly to their warehouse teams means I'm safe in the knowledge my donations are not being ruined by weather waiting for a donation bin to be emptied.

Rummaging through the piles of second-hand goods here, one is sure to pick up a bargain antique…read moretreasure. While it's not the place to pick up quality retro clothing, you will find plenty of old picture frames, antique furniture (banged up antique furniture but it's all about character, right?), vinyl records, old-school suitcases and shelves and shelves full of cute little statues and retro kitchenware that all looks like it should be in Grandma's kitchen. Their pricing system is a little haphazard; the price markers seem to know the value of some of the antique items but overlook others. Sometimes I can pick up an old suitcase or port for $20 whereas on other visits the same sort and quality item will be upwards of $50. There are definitely bargains to be had if you visit regularly though. As well as lots of really old stuff (I'm full of such technical terms), they also have plenty of newer second hand furniture, linen, toys, sports equipment and a section with discounted supermarket items such as toilet paper, shampoo, detergent etc.

This adorable homage to all things retro is definitely on my Paddo "to do" list every time I'm in…read morethe 'hood. The only downside? I wanted more. I was a little disappointed that it's only got quite a small selection of genuinely vintage clothes amongst their vintage "inspired" pieces. I loved the decore though. It's like walking into a batty old lady's living room - Barbara Cartland on an acid trip, maybe? From the pink floors and the animal print rug, the sweet ceramic rabbits holding a welcome sign by the door, the vintage typewriter atop an old suitcase, to the disco balls hanging from the ceiling and handmade socks strung up on a line in the back corner of the room - it's a little bubble of cuteness.

I am rarely so enthusiastic about a shop, but I absolutely love love love this one. The creepy…read moremanikins posed out the front of the store guide shoppers down a narrow path lined with racks of clothing, a mere taste of what is inside, towards the front door. The inside of the store is adorable, it's small but the simple, girly decoration complements the place perfectly. The clothes they sell are a mix of one-off preloved pieces and items made under the store label using vintage material and designs. Everything is super cute and the prices are very reasonable. It pains me to have to say this because I so want to give this place five stars (I'm going to anyway), but some of the second hand items did have stains or random rips in places. So now I have done what is right, I feel free to beg you to look past that and go to this place. Or don't, more for me!

I love a good rummage around a secondhand clothes store. You never know what gems you will find…read more Unfortunately, the few times I have been into the tiny Revamp Fashions I have never found any of these gems. The store is full of second hand clothes all in good condition and the service was OK, although not all too friendly or helpful. The worst thing about the shop was the prices. Asking $80 for a second hand pretty plain looking sportscraft dress is a bit much if you ask me. Every piece in the store seemed to suffer the same overpriced fate. There was not anything there that I would actually buy for the price they were asking. Still, I will probably keep going in just in case that hidden gem unearths itself. After all there is no harm in browsing.

You must come and have a look if you love labels, fashion history and second hand. They specialize…read morein buying labels and have them neatly assembled in this awfully cute and tiny store. The owner herself reminds me of Meryl Streep. Here I have found Leona Edmiston, Moschino, Calvin Klein, Jag, Diane von Furstenberg, Alannah Hill, Chloe... They have shoes, bags and clothes. And when you are done, go opposite to the upmarket Lifeline shop. Being your big wallet. We're not talking $10 frocks here.

Wow. This is a vintage-lover's PARADISE. I couldn't get over how many beautiful treasures call this…read moreplace their home (well, until they get purchased). Unfortunately, time was not on my side so I couldn't spend the hour I needed in here (at a minimum) to truly examine all the loveliness up close. Next visit, I'll definitely spend quality time bonding with the jewellery. There's so many cabinets of it, it's like someone raided the jewellery boxes of all the glam grandmas and great grannies in Australia and it ended up here. Fabulous diamante brooches, clip on earrings, bracelets, rings...all unique, stunning, one-of-a-kind. Walking through the house-come-store, I wandered into a room to the left which was full of beautiful vintage clothes (pricey, but well chosen); then at the end, there was a kitchenette full of...yep, you guessed it, vintage crockery etc. Out on the back patio, it was all about gardening with pots and statues (like a giant buddha). There's definitely no tat in here - it's a wonderland of pre-loved treasures that deserve a nice home.

Adornments is a gorgeous store featuring a wide arrangement of funky, unique, and…read moreI-didn't-even-know-these-things-existed vintage items. As with most of Paddington's boutiques, not all of the items are second-hand antiques. There is a range of brand new clothes, hats and other items for sale. What I particularly loved here was the dresses. The ankle-length, shoulder-strap summer dress gets a beautiful revamp here with unique fabrics. Some of the dresses are floral (there's a gorgeous black dress with roses) and I loved a lilac number with a tiny black bird print. Some of the more unique items include a vintage door-knock of a horse carved out of wood where the ring ("knocker") hangs from his muzzle.