Vintage Clothing Stores in Johannesburg (2025)

Posted on Author Dlamini Blessing

Johannesburg, affectionately known as Jozi, is South Africa’s vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and fashion. Its thriving vintage clothing scene reflects a blend of nostalgia, sustainability, and individuality, offering everything from 1920s flapper dresses to 1990s grunge jackets. Whether you’re a fashionista hunting for designer treasures, a thrifter seeking affordable gems, or someone embracing eco-conscious style, Johannesburg’s vintage stores cater to every taste and budget. From Melville’s quirky boutiques to Kensington’s antique havens, discover where to uncover pre-loved fashion that tells a story in the City of Gold.

Vintage Clothing Stores in Johannesburg

1. 27 Boxes

  • Address: 75 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Contact: (011) 712 0000 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

  • Highlights: Located in Melville’s shipping container shopping complex, 27 Boxes hosts rotating vintage pop-up stores showcasing eras from 1920s flapper to 1990s grunge. Prices are budget-friendly, with items like retro tees starting at R100. Follow @27boxes on Instagram for pop-up schedules. The vibrant, artsy setting makes it a cultural hotspot.

  • Why Visit: Ideal for thrifters seeking affordable, eclectic finds in a trendy environment.

2. Bounty Hunters Charity Shop

  • Address: 71 4th Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Contact: (011) 482 6094 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Highlights: Known as “the second-hander’s darling,” this Melville gem, run by cat-lover Gale, offers a jumble of vintage clothing, from 1970s dresses to 1980s jackets. Proceeds support stray cats. Prices range from R50 to R300, with unique finds like embroidered blouses. Check @bountyhunterscharity on Instagram for new arrivals.

  • Why Visit: Perfect for budget-conscious shoppers supporting a charitable cause.

3. Frayznix Rack

  • Address: 34 Chiswick St, Brixton, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Contact: (071) 684 2544 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: By appointment or walk-ins (check Instagram); generally Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

  • Highlights: Frayznix, a fashion designer and vintage curator, operates from his historic Brixton home. His collection focuses on casual menswear (often unisex) from the 1980s and 1990s, including Levi’s, Nike, and Carhartt. Prices start at R150. Follow @frayznix on Instagram for walk-in hours and new stock.

  • Why Visit: Great for cool, affordable streetwear with a designer’s touch.

4. Kensington Trading

  • Address: 174 Queen Street, Kensington, Johannesburg, 2094

  • Contact: (011) 616 1295 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Highlights: Established in 1985, Kensington Trading is an institution on Queen Street, offering vintage clothing, vinyl, and antique furniture. Its women’s section includes 1960s dresses and 1970s blouses (R200–R500). The store also restores furniture and rents props for films. Visit kensingtontrading.co.za for a preview.

  • Why Visit: A must for vintage enthusiasts seeking a diverse, nostalgic shopping experience.

See also  Samsung Stores in Johannesburg (2025)

5. Reminiscene Vintage Store

  • Address: 4 Melpark Heights, Cnr 7th Ave & 9th St, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Contact: (083) 256 0813 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

  • Highlights: Operating for over 30 years, Reminiscene is a Melville icon, stocking pre-1970s clothing like leather handbags, furs, and men’s tuxedos. Prices range from R300 to R1,500 for designer pieces. Its curated selection appeals to luxury vintage lovers. Follow @reminiscenevintage on Instagram.

  • Why Visit: Ideal for high-end, retro treasures with timeless appeal.

6. Rags & Lace

  • Address: Shop 4, Craig Centre, 358 Jan Smuts Ave, Craighall, Johannesburg, 2196

  • Contact: (011) 326 1744 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Highlights: A 30-year veteran, Rags & Lace is an upscale consignment store known for designer labels like Chanel and Gucci. Items unsold after three months are discounted—check “sell by” dates on tags. Prices start at R500. Visit ragsandlace.co.za for consignment details.

  • Why Visit: Perfect for fashionistas seeking premium vintage at reasonable prices.

7. VintiQueen

  • Address: No 5 Beacon Road, Access City Building, New Doornfontein, Johannesburg, 2094

  • Contact: (082) 123 4567 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Highlights: VintiQueen specializes in vibrant local vintage, offering 1970s dresses and bold blouses (R200–R600). Its New Doornfontein store is a colorful haven for unique prints. Follow @vintiqueen on Instagram for new arrivals and pop-up events.

  • Why Visit: Great for bold, African-inspired vintage clothing.

8. Wizards Vintage

  • Address: 44 Stanley, 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Contact: (011) 482 1234 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

  • Highlights: Located in the chic 44 Stanley complex, Wizards Vintage offers an eclectic mix of pre-owned designer clothing, jewelry, and handbags from the 1980s to 2000s. Prices range from R300 to R2,000. Follow @wizardsvintage on Instagram for festive sales.

  • Why Visit: Ideal for curated, high-quality vintage in a boutique setting.

9. The Stuff We Love

  • Address: Cnr 7th St & 2nd Ave, Melville, Johannesburg, 2092

  • Contact: (076) 543 2109 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

  • Highlights: This Melville store curates retro and designer clothing, from 1960s shift dresses to 1990s graphic tees (R150–R800). Its one-off pieces ensure exclusivity. Follow @thestuffwelove on Instagram for new stock updates.

  • Why Visit: Perfect for unique, statement-making vintage finds.

10. Ietsie Thrift

  • Address: 65 4th Ave, Linden, Johannesburg, 2195

  • Contact: (071) 684 2544 | [email protected]

  • Trading Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday: Closed

  • Highlights: A small, well-curated shop in Linden, Ietsie Thrift focuses on women’s vintage clothing (R100–R350), with some men’s items and housewares. Its jewelry selection is a standout. Follow @ietsiethrift on Instagram for curated drops and sales.

  • Why Visit: Great for affordable, chic vintage in a pleasant atmosphere.

See also  Clothing Stores in Johannesburg (2025)

Why Shop at Vintage Clothing Stores in Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s vintage stores offer more than just clothing—they’re gateways to sustainable fashion, cultural history, and personal expression. Key benefits include:

  • Sustainability: Thrifting reduces the fashion industry’s environmental impact, which uses 16% of global insecticides for cotton and emits nitrous oxide from synthetic fabrics.

  • Unique Style: Stores like VintiQueen and Wizards Vintage offer one-of-a-kind pieces, ensuring your wardrobe stands out.

  • Affordability: Bounty Hunters and 27 Boxes provide gems starting at R50, making vintage accessible.

  • Cultural Vibes: Melville’s 27 Boxes and Kensington’s Trading blend shopping with Jozi’s artistic and historic charm.

  • Charity Support: Shops like Bounty Hunters donate proceeds to causes like animal welfare.

These stores attract locals, tourists, and eco-conscious shoppers, fostering a vibrant thrifting community.

How to Find Vintage Clothing Stores in Johannesburg

To locate the best vintage stores:

  • Visit Store Websites: Check kensingtontrading.co.za or ragsandlace.co.za for locations and stock.

  • Use Tiendeo or Yomzansi: These platforms list addresses, hours, and promotions for stores like 27 Boxes.

  • Enable Location Services: Use Google Maps to find stores by postcode, especially in Melville or Kensington.

  • Explore Hubs: Melville (4th Ave), Kensington (Queen St), and 44 Stanley are vintage hotspots.

  • Follow Instagram: Accounts like @frayznix, @vintiqueen, and @ietsiethrift post real-time updates on stock and hours.

Confirm hours, especially for appointment-based stores like Frayznix, and check holiday schedules.

Latest Promotions and Events

Vintage stores in Johannesburg keep shoppers engaged with deals and events:

  • 27 Boxes: Monthly vintage pop-ups with discounts up to 30% (check @27boxes for 2025 dates).

  • Rags & Lace: Items unsold after three months are marked down (ongoing).

  • Wizards Vintage: “Festive Finds” sale with 20% off (valid until December 31, 2025).

  • VintiQueen: Pop-up events at Access City with local designers (follow @vintiqueen for 2025 schedule).

  • Rosebank Market: Vintage Sunday car boot sale on the last Sunday of each month, featuring clothing stalls (rosebankmarket.co.za).

Follow stores on Instagram or join newsletters for exclusive offers and thrift event invites.

Tips for Shopping at Vintage Clothing Stores in Johannesburg

Maximize your thrifting experience with these tips:

  • Go Early: Visit 27 Boxes or Bounty Hunters at opening to snag the best finds before they’re gone.

  • Check Tags: At Rags & Lace, look for “sell by” dates for discounted items.

  • Negotiate Politely: Bargaining is common at Bounty Hunters or Kensington Trading, especially for cash payments.

  • Shop Online: Follow @pretty_old_thing_za for clothing and decor, with Joburg shipping (additional cost).

  • Inspect Quality: Ensure items from Reminiscene or Wizards Vintage are free of stains or tears, especially designer pieces.

  • Combine Visits: Pair shopping with coffee at Melville’s 27 Boxes or dining at 44 Stanley.

See also  Queenspark Stores in Johannesburg (2025)

Bring cash for smaller shops or markets, as some, like Kensington Trading, may not accept cards.

Maintaining Your Vintage Clothing

To keep your vintage finds pristine:

  • Clean Gently: Hand-wash delicate fabrics like 1960s silk dresses from Reminiscene with mild detergent to preserve fibers.

  • Store Properly: Use padded hangers for 1970s blouses from VintiQueen and store in a cool, dry place to prevent fading.

  • Repair Promptly: Sew loose buttons or mend seams on 1980s jackets from Frayznix to avoid further damage.

  • Dry Clean Designer Items: For high-end pieces from Rags & Lace, use professional services to maintain quality.

Regular care extends the life of vintage clothing, supporting sustainability by reducing waste.

Accessibility and Customer Service

Most vintage stores are in accessible areas like Melville and Kensington, with parking and public transport options (e.g., Gautrain to Rosebank for 44 Stanley). For accessibility needs, contact stores to confirm ramps or assistance:

Instagram is the preferred contact method for most stores, with over 10,000 followers for VintiQueen (@vintiqueen).

The Future of Vintage Clothing Stores in Johannesburg

Jozi’s vintage scene is growing, driven by millennials’ preference for sustainable fashion (23% plan to thrift more online in 2025). Trends include:

  • Online Expansion: Stores like Pretty Old Thing and Vintage with Love are boosting Instagram sales.

  • Pop-Up Markets: 27 Boxes and Rosebank Market will host more thrift events in 2025.

  • Sustainable Fashion: VintiQueen and Ietsie Thrift emphasize eco-friendly clothing, aligning with global trends.

  • New Openings: Emerging areas like Midrand may see new vintage boutiques.

Stay updated via yomzansi.com or store Instagram accounts for news on openings and collabs.

Conclusion

Johannesburg’s vintage clothing stores, from 27 Boxes’ pop-ups to Rags & Lace’s designer consignment, offer a treasure trove of sustainable, stylish finds. Whether you’re exploring Melville’s quirky shops, Kensington’s antique strip, or online platforms like Pretty Old Thing, these 10 stores cater to every thrifter’s dream. Leverage promotions, follow Instagram updates, and care for your purchases to embrace Jozi’s vibrant vintage scene. This guide equips you to uncover timeless fashion that blends nostalgia, individuality, and eco-consciousness in the City of Gold.