“Fifty years in and the jewelry counter alone is still worth the trip — they make most of the pieces themselves, and nothing in there costs what it should.”
— Very Toronto Editors
Kensington Market institution since 1975, selling vintage clothing from the 1960s-1980s, handmade jewelry, beads, buttons, and sewing supplies. The family co-owns a button company in Indonesia, sourcing an extraordinary collection.
“The Kensington location is four times the size of the Parkdale original and still manages to feel curated rather than chaotic — sunglasses at $13 and bandanas at $3 is the kind of pricing that makes resellers nervous.”
— Very Toronto Editors
Two locations: the curated original in Parkdale and a massive 8,000 sq ft Kensington Market outpost. Levi's, denim, leather, vintage sunglasses, and accessories — all priced below market value.
“The Underground location is where the real heads dig — $10 flat pricing on most items and Lou Reed on the speakers means this place has more personality in one rack than most shops have in the entire store.”
— Very Toronto Editors
The punk-rock granddaddy of Toronto vintage, running for 34+ years with two Queen West locations. Specializes in vintage streetwear, graphic tees, Levi's, Carhartt, and leather jackets. Vinyl shop and barber inside.
“The curation is genuinely a cut above — pieces from the 1880s sit next to 90s denim and somehow it all makes sense, and the colour-coordinated racks make shopping feel effortless.”
— Very Toronto Editors
Founded in 2012 by the mother-daughter duo Melo and Mahro Anfield, Mama Loves You Vintage is a staple of the Queen West scene that feels less like a retail store and more like a curated, maximalist boudoir. With Melo sourcing from Vancouver and Mahro managing the Toronto storefront, the shop offers a distinct cross-country perspective that keeps their inventory fresh and eclectic. The atmosphere is unapologetically fun, featuring bubblegum pink walls, maribou-trimmed displays, and a delightful sense of humour that balances out the serious historical weight of their collection. While they carry incredible pieces dating back to the 1880s, the in-store vibe leans heavily into a vibrant 1960s and 70s aesthetic, though you will find everything from rugged Carhartt workwear and denim to delicate 1940s gowns. For a first-timer, the best approach is to dive straight into the racks without a specific agenda, as the curation is impeccable and colour-coordinated for easy browsing. Prices vary widely depending on the rarity and age of the piece, but you can find accessible gems like vintage tees or scarves alongside investment-quality Victorian or mid-century items. If you are on a tighter budget, definitely hunt through their famous five-dollar bin for unexpected treasures. Weekdays are significantly quieter if you want to chat with the staff about the history of a garment, which they are always happy to do. There are no special entry requirements, but be prepared to spend some time here—the shop is packed with one-of-a-kind finds that demand a thorough look.
“Always go to the basement first — that's where the staff stashes the weird and wonderful stuff that doesn't fit the main floor's aesthetic, and it's where the real treasures live.”
— Very Toronto Editors
Kensington Market staple since 1976, specializing in 1940s-1960s vintage alongside perfectly faded Levi's. Known as a go-to for Halloween costumes and party outfits. The basement hides the best finds.
“Flashback proves that less is more on a street full of overstuffed racks — every piece feels intentionally chosen, which means you spend less time digging and more time trying things on.”
— Very Toronto Editors
Hand-picked men's and women's vintage fashion at 33 Kensington Ave, operating since 1997. A more focused, tightly curated selection than the sprawling competitors on the same street.
“The Queen East location benefits from Leslieville's donation quality — mid-range brands mixed in with the usual thrift-store chaos, and the Tuesday seniors' discount day is the power move.”
— Very Toronto Editors
The 924 Queen St E location is the best true thrift store in the city proper — massive floor space with constant churn of east-end donations. Clothing, housewares, books, and furniture at standard thrift pricing.
“This is the real deal — no curation, no markup, just racks of everything at prices that make vintage boutiques look like robbery. The Bloor West catchment means donation quality skews surprisingly high.”
— Very Toronto Editors
The 1219 Bloor St W location is one of the best Salvation Army stores in the city, with a steady stream of quality donations from the surrounding Bloor West Village and High Park neighbourhoods.