When I hear the words "vintage store in Gastown owned by local fashion-savant", I think of one…read morething: overpriced second hand clothing that I would normally love but won't based on moral objections to the obscene prices. But something piqued my interest when I heard of Community Thrift and Vintage. I knew this one would be different then the rest. Man was I right. One part social enterprise, one part thrift store, all parts awesome, this pretty little boutique is retail-with-a-conscious to the highest order. A firm believer that the "thrift" in "thrift store" should be observed, I was beyond relieved to walk into an unpretentious, well-curated, and cheap(!!) vintage shop. Adhering to my "no uglies" policy, this not-for-profit opts for natural fibres when choosing their wares, and has a strict no polyester rule (thankthelawd). With its reclaimed wood and exposed brick walls, its well-curated wares, and its social advocacy and support of the DTES, Community Thrift could easily upsell cool to the masses. But they don't. And I love them so much more for it.

Stumbled upon this little gem while walking through the area. The store is nicely decorated with NO…read moremusty smell. The selection was very hip & trendy, even though they label themselves as vintage. The abundance selection of scarves were impressive. I scored an authentic Coach wool scarf for $14 (Canadian dollars). It was in immaculate condition. I almost walked away with another scarf, but I had to control myself. I think if you're looking for a good selection of gently used unique scarves, this is the place to check out.

This is a fun vintage and second-hand store that looks deceptively small from the street! The store…read moreis actually fairly large. The main floor has a huge selection of jewellery from various eras, bags, shoes, accessories, and vintage clothing, along with some knick knacks. Upstairs, there's more clothes, including a small children's section, some more contemporary pieces, jeans, housewares and records. The standouts are the shoes and jewellery. There were some amazing shoes including doc martens with flowers and artichocke moschino heels -- if only they were my size! The jewellery selection includes a large selection of screw back and clip on earrings, regular earrings and brooches among necklaces, bracelets, etc. Some very cool and unique pieces. The prices are super fair and the owner curates the whole store and is fun to chat with. Very knowledgeable about styles from different periods! The staff here is really friendly and will help you with suggestions if you are looking for something specific. I was shopping for earrings for my sister and everyone here helped me find the perfect gift. Everything on the ground level has tags that indicated the decade the item dated to. The second floor did not always have this, just because a lot of the items were obviously contemporary so it was not so necessary e.g. a sweater from Zara. This store is a hidden gem!

Jaime is a saint! Even if I'm not on the lookout for anything I'll stop in just to talk with them…read moreas they're so kind and charismatic. Though I'll almost always leave with something since they do such an amazing job curating their clothing and jewelry. Though don't be confused, they are a vintage and consignment store so don't expect thrift prices, but know that you're supporting a great local business and everything they carry is of amazing quality. But regardless if I'm just there to chat, to buy, or to sell, I've always had a great experience with them!

I purchased a leather jacket at Encore for $195, the saleslady reduced it for me from $250…read more Encore's price tag stated an original price of $650. It is made in India, so I doubted it was worth that much. After I purchased it, I went home and searched online, where I found the same jacket for $65 - $90. Of course, there is no law against making a profit, but this store is a rip-off. Encore fooled me once, but I will never shop at Encore Fashion Boutique again. Beware!

Encore Fashion has some awesome used clothing and accessories. Downstairs you'll find great shoes,…read morepurses, and clothing items for sale. Everything is in really good condition and practically new. No funky stretch out shoes here. Prices decrease the longer items stay in the store. When I was there some items were 40% off the ticketed price. I heard a customer asking for a lower price on a pair of boots and she was offered $20 off. Hey, it's worth asking. Head upstairs for men's and children's clothing. If I had kids I'd do my shopping for them at Encore. There's lots of really cute stuff available. They've also got some toys and books.

Very nice vintage clothes and jewelry, cool glasses and accessories…read more Madison was very nice too. I definitely had a hard time leaving the store Recommended

Love the items ive gotten from here, super cute consignment and decor! Definitely wish i could buy…read moremore from here

Quality Merchandise: The clothing items are in excellent condition, and you can find high-quality…read morebrands at reasonable prices. Variety: They offer a wide range of styles for women, catering to different tastes and preferences. The stores strategically stock items from that specific neighborhood they are located. Price: There are things that you definitely score, especially with their points system or monthly sale. They're adept at setting reasonable prices for merchandise, it may have increased slightly, but it's still fair pricing. Their appraisers are knowledgeable in pricing strategy. Staff: They have a ton of stuff, so browse around. The staff members are helpful and some are knowledgeable, providing assistance when needed without being pushy. Consignment Options: If you have gently used designer clothing to sell, they do price it reasonable. I like coming to the South Granville Luxe location,and I have scored many many deals and upfront discount from the managers. I also drop some items for them to sell. And they're on the ball that if your stuff doesn't sell, they do email you for pickup. The ladies are fantastic .

Floyd has the best prices. I have recommended his services to many of my friends and they have been…read moremore than satisfied too. Floyd has been in the business for many, many years. he has the knowledge and common sense to give the best services with an array of side splitting jokes for free.

Lovely store and great selection but I never find anything in larger sizes. But the staff are…read morelovely and I always enjoy browsing!

I've been to a few consignment and thrift stores on Main, and always found it really difficult to…read morefind clothes in my size that aren't boring! (L / XL) I found three things in my size that I liked on my first trip to The Main Exchange, and I'm planning on going back. The cashier / customer service was friendly even though I didn't really know what I was doing, and I didn't feel rushed when trying things on or pressured to buy anything. Prices seem to be about $35-40 for most items, so more than most thrift stores but less than some other consignment stores. I think the price is reasonable because the items are in good condition and curated. I would recommend stopping by!

If you're in the hood, check it out. Lots of inventory so you have to hunt but they do a great job…read moresorting and presenting. Don't be afraid to haggle.

used to be great to visit when nearby but some insane and unfair prices last year or more, its not…read morea consignment store, they get stuff for free as far as I know

I have been a fan of this high end consignment store for many years even though I don't live in…read moreDunbar. Last week I scored again. A Tommy Bahama 100% linen blouse for $59.00. It was brand new, the tags still on @ $169. Then a very nice young clerk patiently burrowed through a huge box of bras to find me a strapless. Love the staff, love the prices.

Dragon & Phoenix is a very special place. I have been a customer and account-holder for years…read more When I moved, I (very briefly) considered trying to find a new consignment store closer to me. However, after considerable research, including encountering, for example, exorbitant "cleaning fees" and other unfriendly contract terms at other stores, my search confirmed what I had really known all along: Dragon & Phoenix is a warm and friendly place full of warm and friendly people - people who want your side of the consignment relationship to be as rewarding as theirs. This store is a class act and a Kerrisdale gem.