There’s nothing quite like landing a good fashion bargain that is inexpensive, yet tasteful. Thrifting is a great way to save money, support the community, explore new styles, and score awesome deals with low prices. Besides that, recycling clothes and wearing pre-loved items does the planet a whole lot of good by reducing carbon and chemical pollution and keeping our landfills ‘cleaner’.
For those new to the concept of thrifting, don’t let the thought of wearing secondhand clothes hinder you and your family. Just go through the process objectively and have fun shopping! Bundle shops may have a reputation for being untidy and cramped, but like all things, there are a handful of organised, modern, attractive, and clean stores around. Pro tip: it’s handy to have a budget, so you don’t go overboard with your spending.
Here are some physical stores and online secondhand shops you can check out on your next shopping adventure:
Physical Stores
1. BLESS Shop
The initiative was started in 1999 and by 2006, the first BLESS Shop was opened in Midvalley Megamall. Operating as a social enterprise, BLESS Shop gives back to charities and organisations in line with their mission and vision. They are well-loved by the thrift shopping community and prices start at RM3 per garment at their respective outlets. Get excited and select from an array of clothes, accessories, shoes, kidswear, bags, and traditional wear like baju kurung and cheongsam.
To date, they have over 8,000 discounted used items for sale and have five outlets across the Klang Valley. Donations can be dropped off at their selected outlets or at SIBKL, Bangunan Yin, Basement 1, next to the lift lobby from 8:30am to 12pm (only on Sundays).
Please see the store locations and opening hours here.
2. OKGO Store
What’s not to love when a store gets new drops two to three times a week? OKGO Store prides itself in delivering the best curated collection in town. Established in 2017 by a husband and wife team, the Subang Jaya thrift store has been a constant crowd-favourite for trendy wearables and vintage finds like Levi’s Big E designs, Coach jackets, Dickies and Carpenters trousers, classic Russell Athletic sweatshirts, corduroy sets, and more. Just like the label, the physical store is uber retro and cool too — perfect for some Insta-worthy shots while you’re there!
Store location: 17A (First Floor), Jalan SS18/1B, 47500 Subang Jaya Selangor
Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 12pm to 7pm (last walk-in is at 6.45pm); Saturday and Sunday: 11am to 7pm; Closed on Tuesdays
3. Looop
Stay in the looop with this gem of a store, tucked away in the TTDI neighbourhood – where all the cool kids go! The items here are lovingly curated and fashion-forward, with many of the pieces on sale carrying the unique stories of their past lives, through poignant handwritten notes by their former owners. The store is open from Wednesdays to Sundays, and those looking to re-home their preloved clothes can make an appointment here, or find out more about the consignment process here.
Store location: 20-1, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Fridays: 2pm to 9pm; Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays: 12pm to 7pm; Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
4. Bandoru Store (Japanese-inspired Thrift Store)
With a tagline that says, ‘Better Than New’, one can expect no less from this Japanese-inspired thrift store. Get ready to be spoiled for choice with some vintage branded goods from Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, Fred Perry, and sporty favourites like Nike, Adidas, and Champion. All secondhand apparels and accessories for respective Bandoru Stores are imported from Japan and go through stringent quality checks before hitting the racks. This means, by the time they reach the store, they look almost new and in mint condition. Perfecto!
Please see the store locations here. All Bandoru Stores operate from 10am to 10pm daily.
5. Jalan Jalan Japan
Figurines, games, books, toys, winter wear, kimonos, leather shoes, tableware, crockery, jackets, camping equipment, old Starbucks tumblers — you name it, they would probably have it. Jalan Jalan Japan stemmed from one of Japan’s most recognised preloved markets called ‘BOOKOFF’, which buys more than they sell; hence they are able to sell their items at very low prices. Hold on to your purses, because their items start as low as RM1!
Please see the store locations and opening hours here.
6. 2nd Street Bundle Shop
Aiming to repurpose and encourage people to ‘relove’ old clothes, accessories, and shoes, this Japan-founded company focuses on exporting used garments across Asian countries. Streetwear and sneakers are considered among some of their most popular bargains so far. Globally, it has more than 500 stores cumulatively, and each store is a treasure trove of its own. Having a few branches sprawled across the Klang Valley, customers are always treated to a nice, orderly shopping experience, complete with air-conditioning.
Please see the store locations and opening hours here.
7. REFASH
Time to join the sustainable fashion future army! REFASH is a great place to buy fabulous secondhand dresses, tops, skirts, denim outfits, and pants, from popular brands like Love, Bonito, The Editor’s Market, Zara, Topshop, and Fayth to name a few. Not only do they sell used clothes in pristine condition, they also accept old clothing donations with payment returns in cash or store credits.
To ensure you optimise the exchange value, ensure that your donated items are not worn out or damaged. You can check out their payout breakdown here. Make sure to also follow them on their socials for updates on flash sales and thrift festivals too.
Store location: REFASH X ALL TO GATHER: LGP09 @ JUMPA, Sungei Wang Plaza, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays: 11am to 8pm
Online Shops
8. Thrift Club Kuching by Forge
Run by the talented people behind Forge, Thrift Club Kuching is an online thrift store filled with cute pieces released in collections. Their collections come from various brands, and one can get a beautiful flowy maxi or midi dress for under RM100. Shopping is a no-fuss process – just DM them your selection and proceed to make the payment. Shipping charges are RM10 within Sarawak and RM13 to RM16 for West Malaysia and Sabah. They’re currently in the process of re-branding, so be sure to check out their socials for the latest news.
9. The Simple Piece
Fans of romantic, classic, and elegant looks which require minimal accessorising will love this online gem. Each garment from The Simple Piece is responsibly sourced and lovingly handpicked. Choose from a wonderful collection of statement tops and jackets with Chelsea or Peterpan collars, shoulder pads, embroidered detailing, luxe material, and patterns, as well as feminine summer dresses and sultry evening dresses.
10. Hello Swissify
Swoon over vintage skirts and dresses with classic cuts and silhouettes over at Hello Swissify. The essence of the brand is ‘where old becomes new again’, and this concept is evident throughout this e-store. The founder of the store is fond of vintage styling and design, so she ensures the items are a good mix from the past brought into the present, to give a contemporary appeal.
11. Nedira KL
Another great label for bargains that are girlie, refined, and in style. Ready-stocked items are popular and are nabbed pretty quickly, so purchase at first browse if you must! Sizes for tops run from size XS to XL, and free-sized cardis and outerwear are available too. If you’re not too picky, give the as-is category a go — though there may be signs of wear and age, the price tag for a premium full lace top for under RM50 is definitely a steal!
And there you have it; a pretty neat list to start your bargain hunting. Shop sustainable and purposeful today, #makchicmumsquad. Remember to tag us in your bargain buys or share your favourite spots for bargain hunting – we’d love to know!
By Amanda Sura
Amanda is a freelance writer, aspiring businesswoman, and mother of two. She’s a proud Sarawakian who hails from Kuching. Apart from writing, she loves mixing natural body scrubs and foot soaks with her business partner for their small business, Suravont.
Photos are taken from the respective brands’ websites and social media pages. For more details and prices, please contact the stores and boutiques directly.
