Fall is right around the corner, and I’m fighting the urge to break the bank on new knitwear. Luckily, D.C. has tons of other cheaper and more sustainable ways to change up your wardrobe for sweater season. These are our tried-and-true spots to thrift clothes, some of which are totally free!
Community Clothing Swap (Malcolm X):
This free clothing swap is hosted by three locals every few months. Bring your old clothes and wander the lawn to find new pieces to bring home. Everything left over is donated.
One of my fave things about living in D.C. is that people organize things like this! It was satisfying to see my old clothes find new homes, and I'm so excited to wear my new dresses around town.
Priyanka Tilve, City Cast DC
Value Village/Unique (Silver Spring):
Not for the faint of heart, this mega two-in-one thrift shop will have you digging through the racks for hours. It’s outside the city, but worth the trip. The majority of my great thrift finds come from here. Besides clothes, they have furniture, kitchenware, books, jewelry, art, and more. Note that there are no dressing rooms so wear bike shorts or snug clothing so you can try stuff on!
Value Village/Unique Thrift in SIlver Spring. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Femme Fatale Clothing Swap (Cleveland Park):
Another free option, Femme Fatale hosts regular clothing swaps outside their shop. They encourage gender- and size-inclusive clothing and accessories, but leave the undergarments at home please! The next swap is this Saturday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Rosario’s (Columbia Heights):
This small shop is dirt cheap but has high-quality clothing that turns over frequently. It doesn't take long to search through the whole place and makes for the perfect after-work stop.
Frugalista (Mount Pleasant):
Reasonable prices and great organization make this a staple D.C. thrift stop. It’s so small that it can sometimes be hit or miss, but is well worth stopping in for the jean selection alone. They also frequently have sales so check their Instagram before you go.
