The Best Op Shops in Melbourne (2026)
Melbourne is often considered the op shopping capital of Australia. Its active fashion culture means it has many of the best op shops in Melbourne. From curated vintage and designer labels to everyday bargains, the city has many options, but it can be difficult to know where to start.
Exploring the second-hand scene by area is an effective way to find what you need. This guide lists the city’s op shopping trails and the stores in each precinct. For a broader look at op shopping across the country, see our guide to Australia’s best op shops.
Op shop trail 1: The inner-north (Fitzroy & Brunswick)
The inner-north is the centre of Melbourne’s vintage and alternative fashion. If you’re looking for unique and retro pieces, this is a good destination.
Fitzroy: Vintage stores
Brunswick Street and Smith Street have several vintage stores.
- Hunter Gatherer: The flagship store for Brotherhood of St Laurence, this shop has a selection of vintage and designer donations from their network. It is a popular spot for thrifters.
- Vintage Sole: A well-known Melbourne business offering a collection of vintage clothing, shoes, and accessories, with a focus on denim and boots.
- Sacred Heart Mission: The Fitzroy store is known for its high-quality donations, including contemporary fashion and unique homewares.
Brunswick: Sydney Road bargains
Sydney Road is a long strip known for its traditional op shops where prices are often lower.
- Savers: The Brunswick Savers is a large store for second-hand goods. You’ll need time to look through the stock, but the volume of clothing, homewares, and books makes it a worthwhile stop. Remember to wash everything before you wear it!
- Vinnies & Salvos: You’ll find several stores from Australia’s op shop chains along this road, offering reliable quality and fair prices.
Op shop trail 2: The south-side (Chapel Street precinct)
For those hunting for high-end and designer fashion, the southern suburbs and Chapel Street are the main areas to visit.
Prahran & Windsor
The Windsor end of Chapel Street has a mix of op shops and consignment stores.
- Chapel Street Bazaar: A large market of individual stallholders selling vintage clothing, retro furniture, records, and collectibles.
- Sacred Heart Mission: The Prahran and Windsor stores are known for their selection of designer clothing, shoes, and accessories. This is a good place to use your tips for finding designer brands.
Hampton
Further south, the Vinnies on Hampton Street is a source of designer donations and high-quality labels.
Op shop trail 3: The city loop (Melbourne CBD)
While the CBD has fewer traditional op shops, it’s home to some large vintage stores, often located in multi-level buildings.
- RetroStar Vintage Clothing: Located in the Nicholas Building, this is one of Australia’s large vintage stores. It has a collection of clothing and accessories from the 1940s to the 1990s.
- American Rag: Situated in the QV building, this store has a selection of vintage clothing imported from the USA.
Tips for op shopping in Melbourne
- Use public transport: Most of these op shop trails are accessible via Melbourne’s tram network, making it easy to travel between suburbs.
- Go on weekdays: If you can, shop on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds and see newly stocked items.
- Bring cash: While most stores accept cards, some smaller or community-run shops might be cash only.
Exploring the op shops in Melbourne is a way to see the city’s culture and build a sustainable wardrobe.