Thrift Store Shopping in Los Angeles

I grew up going to flea markets and auctions with my mom, an Art and Antiques dealer. Things with a history and that show their use and wear appeal to me. Shopping at a flea market or thrift store is a form of recycling. I am on a constant decluttering mission, trying to get rid of something after I get something new, (well, new to me). So, I not only shop at thrift stores, but I also donate too.

There are some wonderful thrift stores and flea markets in my neighborhood and Los Angeles. Everytime I drop off things to Goodwill, I like to take a look around, especially since Halloween is coming. Some wonderful finds I have found at the thrift store include a full length leather coat for a play costume, a wool Irish walking cap, and a set of Calphalon cookware and chef's bowls.

The mother of all flea markets in Los Angeles is held at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena monthly. Just imagine acres and acres of stuff, antique hardware, vintage clothing, costume jewelry, religious artifacts, horse tack, old pictures, books, and vinyl records. I've been to the monthly flea market at the Santa Monica airport too and it's smaller with lots of furniture, but I was happy to see Rachel Ashwell of Shabby Chic fame there.

Also in Los Angeles is a hidden gem of a thrift store, St.Vincent De Paul Society. This place is huge, probably the size of a Home Depot. They have a great selection of used furniture. I've gotten a very nice sleeper love seat and a wing chair which was reupholstered and Voila, Brand new furniture for a third of the cost. Plus, I got to pick out the fabric and they were well made with a solid wood frame.

Another fun stop on our Bargain basement tour of LA is Magnolia Street in Burbank. There are some fun antique shops, thrift stores, and one of my favorite stores, "It's A Wrap", which sells the wardrobes used in television and movies. My niece bought gorgeous jewel encrusted sandals and full length hot pink gloves worn on General Hospital. My son got a black fedora from "The Mark of Zorro" which is the closest I will ever get to Antonio Bandaras, sigh.

That concludes our tour for today. Next time I'm in the mood to shop (not too often, fortunately!!), I'll give you the lowdown on downtown LA including our wholesale flower, jewelry, fabric, and fashion districts. Also, my husband is taking me to Little India soon where I expect to find new treasures and bargains galore! Thank you for your time and may you find your treasure at a very good price!