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

Not as heavily trawled through as the paddington retro stores…read more(or the Salvo's on boundary) This little op-shop is a godsent for thrifty minded people like me. You find all sorts of odds and ends at the rickety and charming St Veronica's. I know I've bought a couple of clothing gem's here over the years (a prize powder blue party dress) as well as quirky gifts for friends. (Naked Garden gnomes anybody?) Employ those eagle eyes when hunting down that perfect dress as finding treasure here can get challenging (as the photos can attest.)

This is the kind of ramshackle, 'bomb hit it', order in chaos, treasure trove op-shop that is…read morereminiscent of the outlaw op-shops I used to rummage through growing up in the far reaches of the northern suburbs. I always walk out with armloads of clothes when I visit St Veronica's. If you can spend some time rifling through the racks, both men and women will be pleasantly surprised with the findings. They also have an enviable collection of manchester, vintage crockery, books and an abundance of cheap frames (of particular mention for any artists out there). If you're on the lookout for some random domestic need, go there for a gander. Last week I was in desperate need of a tagine, and I struck gold. It's just that kind of place- full of handy wears you never knew you needed until you laid your eyes upon it. It isn't the cheapest op-shop around, but for a West End op shop, it is the most reasonably priced. You'll probably also have a higher success rate for finding gems because of it's out of the way location.

Unbeknownst to many is that Gladstone- Annerley Road, the forgettable stretch of road that connects…read moreWest End to Annerley, is in fact home to a few of Brisbane's hot spots. Its Vintage Darling is such a place. Its Vintage Darling is a particularly charming store, but because it's placed on a main road, it often gets missed by car go-ers. It's quite an unassuming place, and there's not many quick and easy parking spots if you do catch a glimpse of it. It's young owner has gone to great lengths to make the décor resemble an era long gone. She is powdered and picture perfect, not a hair out of place. Everything in the store is immaculately presented. You do not frantically rummage through her store, you peruse. While you're browsing, you can also ask for a organic free trade coffee ($3), which will be made in the 'kitschenette'. When you find something you like and you're testing out your new found dream threads, the owner jumps right in there with her own two cents worth. It's like serendipitously finding a new trusted fashionista sister to shop with. Yes, she wants you to buy her wears, but I truly believe she also wants you to walk out with something sensational. What's more is that Its Vintage Darling has become an irregular venue for live music as well. Sometimes a live music 'sale' day will happen, which will make you think all of your christmases have come at once. Bring a fair wad of cash with you. It's not an overly expensive vintage store (some op shops in the area have similar prices but the stock here is much better), but you might want to have more dosh in your pocket because there are just so many pretties in store.

Sip on a fresh, hot latte while browsing racks of dresses and reading vintage magazines (10 tips on…read morebeing a good housewife!)? Sign me up. It's Vintage Darling is one of my fave vintage shops. Not only is the name fun to say (It's vintage, dahling) but the staff are sweet, friendly and make a mean cappuccino. It's Vintage Darling has a lovely tiny retro kitchen and coffee machine, as well as a bit of lounge and outdoor seating so you can get a caffeine hit while browsing the retro-wares. There's usually a good range of 80s and 90s grunge, quite a bit of men's stock and on occasion, a lovely 50s or 60s dress. I got a divine 40s gown from there once, and for under $100, so they are well-priced. But best of all is the bargain bins - there are treasures to be found if you're willing to dig and most are under $10. Check it out!

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!

This would have to be one of the most beautifully preserved arcades in Brisbane. With it's olden…read moreday atmosphere, you'd expect the shopping there to be a little but classier, a cut above the rif-raf out on Queen Street, but I find it a bit pretentious, particularly the upper gallery. Looking in jewelery stores up there recently, I felt very alienated by icy shopkeepers. Also, there's quite a few empty stores up there which makes me think businesses might struggle up there. Down the bottom is more lively, with a lovely tea shop, selling a large range of tea pots; jewelery stores; and bridal shops. With the exception of the cheap and nasty accessory store, Colette, at the Queen Street entrance of the arcade, the shops in here require you to have money to spend (or at least pretend you have money to spend). Best not to rock up in your Havianas--it won't help things with the already snooty shop keepers.

I love this arcade, I wish every arcade in Brisbane was like this…read more The architecture has a renaissance feel about it that makes you feel like you have just stepped into old European hotel lobby or opulent castle foyer. Its the sort of place most people probably go to look and admire rather than shop but in saying that it is home to some of Brisbane's most awarded retailers especially if you are after jewelery or bridal wear. If you are looking for a unique gift or something for the person who has everything this place is your treasure trove. I particularly love looking at all the beautiful time pieces in the Vintage watch shop and pens right next door.

You know, I try to be constructive. But I just can't hold back on this one…read more Op shops are not only there to raise funds for the people they support, but they are also there to give less advantaged people a means to have affordable clothing and obtain other things they may need. The Lifeline Designer Store sells your stock standard gear for antique prices. Who in their right mind is going to pay $99.00 for two tea cups that don't look worth any more than other tea cups that are in op shops going for $2.00? Who is going to pay $30 for a dog earred, second hand book? I mean, please! If you're selling wares under the name "Lifeline", people are going to expect it to be affordable, possibly even cheap. I understand that if you're rifling through donations and you find a Ralph Lauren tag, you'll put the price up a bit. People pay more for labels, therefore the charity gets more money and can provide more services. I get it. It just seems like a bit of scam to me. Really, the clothes in there don't let any better than the clothes I've seen in 'non designer' op shops. It's really all the same kind of stuff. It's probably why I have such a hard time swallowing the prices they put on the gear here. I'll say this, if you're looking to get your hands on some cheap designer threads, browse through the stock. The shop is loaded with clothes. If you find something, good for you. There is a particular market for this kind of store, it's just not me. I'll stick to my yearly donations and my fill a bag for $1 shops, thanks.

Hidden away from view in the Blocksidge & Ferguson Arcade on Elizabeth Street there are a couple of…read morehidden treasures - some designer op shops/second hand stores. I wouldn't have expected the city to have second hand stores, but they do! The Lifeline Designer store is truly filled to the brim with designer label clothes, all in fantastic condition. The prices are a little more than the usual bargain op-shop prices, but you can still walk away with a designer label item for a fraction of the retail cost. Plenty of handbags and shoes as well as dresses, skirts and suits. This shop is really worth the trip away from the mall, and you never know what you'll find!

Zomp is a shoe wonderland/warehouse/factory/unbelievably amazing place. I saw bright-coloured shoes…read morethrough the window and thought, "oh yes, this shop looks nice" and then had to wipe the gleeful shock from my face as soon as I stepped inside because if I have a weakness for anything (other than vintage luggage), it's shoes. Seasonal shoes and classic shoes and flat shoes and sandal shoes and shoes that are totally not practical and shoes that I would most certainly ruin with a day's wear. Zomp has everything. It's just wall-to-wall of shoes in the latest styles like wedges and chunky heels, but also classic black pumps, cute work-appropriate flats, and summery sandals. Zomp is a shoe lover's DREAM. There is literally a style to cater for every girl (sorry guys) and for every occasion. For a store along James Street, prices are also quite reasonable. The pumps and wedges that I kept picking up ranged between $130 to about $180, which is what you would pay at regular quality shoe stores like Wittner and Zu. Plus the styles are to die for, so I would gladly make that investment. The girls are also friendly and engage you in conversation, but you can also freely meander around the store to gaze at these wondrous shoes. If you're stuck for shoes for a particular occasion, visit Zomp and I almost guarantee you'll find the very thing you need or, at the very least, walk out with something you don't need, but absolutely love.

With its badass looking sign and beautiful interior, ZOMP…read morescreams out LOOK AT ME I'M FRICKN' AMAZING. I love love love coming here as this place is full of BE-A-UTIFUL shoes. ...And that's quality shoes from contemporary european designers like Francesco Morichetti, Luiza Barcelos and Anniel (to name a few.) The shelves are stacked with skyscraper heels, wedges and flats just waiting to be paired with all of your outfits. The staff are super friendly and (seemingly) don't seem to mind traipsing upstairs to find shoes for your every whim. These guys have saved me from a sad shoe-less fate on numerous occasions. (Most recently, sending shoes from sydney just in time for christmas.) This attractive store coupled with an relaxed environment make shoe shopping a (very enjoyable) breeze. Good lookin' and affordable to boot I would definitely recommend sussing this place out.

Swop fills a gap sorely needed in Brisbane. Where Sydney is peppered with boutique vintage clothing…read morestores, Brisbane tends to have clothing collections mothballed in the dark corners of antique furniture and collectibles warehouses. While Swop advertises that they will take high end or trendy fashion, when you get up the stairs you will definitely feel you stepped back in time. A sweep of the hand over any track will give you sensations of old: Terry toweling dresses, velour pants and jackets, fur collars, stiff gloweave, lame by the kilometre, rustic polyesters (you know what i mean! Polyesters just don't feel that way now!!!) and linen linen linen. Swop is perfection. There will be no mothballed or mustiness here. Every thing is laid out logically and aesthetically. It's uncluttered but well stocked. The men's section is at least a third of the store (speak to any man who frequents op shops... A 1:2 ratio is extraordinary). Don't expect op shop prices, and good on em too. The better run Swop is the longer we get to shop there. I spotted two fantastic condition retro wool coats at $40 and $60, and a classic symmetrical equestrian theme scarf for $20. So again, realistic prices to run their business, but of course they only stock good quality and interesting items. You will find: clothes, hats, shoes, bags, belts, denim, leather. Probably more but I'll have to find out another day.

Really nice VINTAGE clothing just a bit more pricey than I thought. Plays really good music and…read moregreat overall vibe. I recommend going if you're looking for shirts, dresses or hats :)

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