You may be soaking up every last bit of summer by taking family weekend trips, spending afternoons at the beach, and enjoying later bedtimes. But back-to-school season will be here soon! And let’s face it: new school supplies, backpacks, and textbooks add up fast. So this year, instead of buying all new threads for the kids, consider purchasing your supplies and materials at thrift shops in the city. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be helping save the planet and reducing waste. Check out these top Chicago thrift stores to score some dope gear.
The Second Child
Address: 954 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Looking for a solid alternative and sustainable way to dress your little ones? Look no further than The Second Child! Owner Amy Helgren was inspired to open the thrift shop in Chicago after the birth of her second daughter and the over abundance of baby and child gear. Head to Lincoln park to check out her awesome selection!
Kangaroo Kids
Address: 4161 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
This adorable thrift shop located in North Center stocks gently used children’s clothing, infant accessories, and upscale toys. The thrift store offers popular kids labels such as Ivivva, Tea, Crew Cuts, Hanna Andersson, Mini Boden, Janie and Jack, Peek, Ralph Lauren, Vineyard Vines, North Face, Patagonia and more.
Cloud & Bunny
Address: 1600 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
A light-filled corner shop that’s the epitome of bold, colorful, and fun? Say no more! Cloud and Bunny is a social enterprise children’s boutique in Chicago featuring luxury products at affordable prices. Owner and Mother, Maja Haraslic, offers a rotating selection of clothing from ages newborn to 12 years.
Monarch Thrift Shop
Address: 2866 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
This Avondale thrift store is a place where the community can come together to support programs for addiction recovery, reintegration, HIV/AIDS, and other vulnerable populations. Stop by this thrift store in Chicago on Fridays for 50% off your purchase! Just a heads up, face masks are still required inside of the store.
Out of the Closet
Address: 3311 North Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Want your money to go towards an amazing cause? When you shop at Out of the Closet, $0.96 of every dollar collected goes directly to helping people living with HIV and AIDS.
Greater Goods Community Thrift
Address: 6025 IL-19, Chicago, IL 60634
Portage Park’s newest shop is the boutique experience with thrift store prices. Regular discounts are offered each week. Stop by for kids’ clothing, shoes, and fun finds left and right!
First Seconds Resale
Address: 4266 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641
This no-frills, straightforward corner thrift store, just north of Portage Park, sells used children’s clothing, shoes, toys & games. Find great bargain merch or sell your secondhand items.
Village Discount Outlet
Address: Various Locations
This popular Chicagoland thrift store with 11 locations spanning Chicago, the burbs, and Indiana sells vintage, retro style clothing and household goods at amazing prices. Check out this staple for hidden gems the kids will love.
Featured Image Photo Credit: The Second Child
