The Ultimate Thrift Store Guide for Queer Women in Los Angeles
Why Thrifting Hits Different for Queer Women in LA
LA’s thrift scene is basically a playground. A place full of style experimentation, gender-expansive dressing, and the kind of serotonin you only get when you find a $15 oversized leather jacket that looks like it walked out of Buffy.
For queer women, fashion is personal and political. Thrifting gives us space to build identity through clothes, find gender-affirming silhouettes, and shop sustainably… while meeting other queers along the way.
And if you’ve ever come to one of our Femini Rising thrift meet-ups, you already know: LA flea markets are basically lesbian nightlife, but at 10am and with iced matcha.
Below is our go-to guide to the best thrift stores, vintage shops, and flea markets for queer women across Los Angeles.
1. In Heroes We Trust — Online (New store coming soon)
Upscale vintage • Curated • Core staples
A fashion lover’s dream. IHWT is known for elevated vintage, standout jackets, designer pieces, and editorial-worthy finds. Everything feels intentional, which is why queer creatives love it—think “hot girl archivist.” Expect higher price points but unforgettable pieces that stay in your closet forever.
Best for: statement outerwear, unique denim, leather, curated looks for queer date nights.
2. Jet Rag — Fairfax
Iconic $1 sale • Controlled chaos • High reward
Jet Rag’s famous Sunday $1 sale is messy, competitive, and extremely queer-coded. You’ll find sapphics digging through piles with determination and a dream. It’s chaotic, but the thrill of scoring a vintage tee or silk button-up for literally a dollar is unmatched.
Best for: tees, oversized button-downs, Y2K gems, pants you cut into jorts.
3. Out of the Closet — Multiple Locations
Affordable thrifting with purpose
Queer-owned, community-centered, and supporting HIV/AIDS services. Think everyday staples, books, housewares, and occasionally a fashion gem. If you want to support LGBTQ+ health while shopping, this is it.
Best for: basics, sweaters, queer joy.
4. Iguana Vintage — Hollywood
Retro fantasy • Costumes • True vintage lovers
Iguana is your spot for 60s–90s vintage, denim walls, and outfits for queer Halloween, Pride, or your next themed party. It’s theatrical and fun—perfect for sapphics who like to dress with intention.
Best for: retro looks, denim, themed outfits, gender play.
5. Goodwill — Beverly Blvd
Affordable staples • Weekly gems • The neighborhood classic
This is our Goodwill—our regular stop and the place we always recommend to queer women who want inexpensive, reliable finds. Great for basics, outerwear, and random surprises that feel like personal style destiny.
Best for: everyday pieces, layering staples, experimenting with new silhouettes without spending much.
7. LA’s Flea Market Circuit (aka Queer Church)
Flea markets are our happy place—and where we host many Femini Rising meet-ups. These markets are incredible for curated vintage, handmade jewelry, and supporting small queer vendors.
Melrose Trading Post — Fairfax
Truly lesbian Disneyland. A mix of vintage fashion, small designers, plants, crystals, and queer couples strolling with iced coffee. We go here all the time.
Rose Bowl Flea Market — Pasadena
The Super Bowl of LA thrifting. Massive, overwhelming, but worth it for denim, leather jackets, and high-quality vintage finds. Plan for a full morning—and bring water.
Long Beach Antique Market
More relaxed and often better priced. A great place for furniture, leather, and accessories you’ll keep forever.
Silver Lake Flea
Small, stylish, and extremely gay. Think queer artists selling crochet tops, handmade jewelry, and curated thrift racks.
Tips for Better Thrifting (Especially in Queer LA)
Shop weekdays — less crowded, more gems.
Wear basics — tank + shorts/leggings to try things on fast.
Check all sections — men's, women's, kids; gender is fake.
Inspect seams + armpits — your future self will thank you.
Bring a tote — sustainability but make it gay.
Carry cash — especially at Jet Rag or flea markets.
Final Thoughts
LA thrift culture thrives because of queer creativity. The city’s best thrift stores and flea markets are more than shopping spots. They’re community hubs where sapphic women, lesbians, and LGBTQ+ folks get to express themselves freely.
Whether you're looking for a $1 tee, a vintage leather jacket, or a queer community to thrift with, Los Angeles has a spot for you.
And if you want to join one of our Femini Rising thrift meet-ups, follow us on Instagram—we’re always roaming the aisles of Melrose Trading Post with cold brew and too many tote bags.
