In Carytown, fashion isn’t just about what’s new — it’s about what’s rediscovered. This colorful Richmond neighborhood is known for its boutique energy and creative soul, and nowhere is that more visible than in its vintage and thrift scene.
From reworked denim and designer resale to retro records and antique glassware, Carytown invites you to slow down and shop with purpose. It’s sustainable, stylish, and just a little nostalgic — the kind of shopping that turns every find into a story.
1. Ashby: Where Vintage Meets Modern
At Ashby, thrift shopping feels curated rather than chaotic. Located right on Cary Street, this local favorite blends boutique charm with affordable resale. You’ll find racks of gently used clothing from name brands, indie designers, and timeless basics — all arranged by color and style, making it easy to browse.
Beyond fashion, Ashby shines in community focus: every purchase supports local causes through donations and partnerships. Whether you’re after that perfect pair of high-waisted jeans or a quirky accessory, this is the kind of secondhand store that feels personal and purposeful.
Insider tip: Visit early in the week for fresh inventory — locals know Monday and Tuesday mornings are when new pieces hit the racks.
2. Clementine: Designer Resale, Richmond Style
Just a few doors down, Clementine brings a polished twist to resale shopping. Think Anthropologie meets high-end consignment — clothing, shoes, and handbags carefully selected for both quality and style.
Clementine caters to shoppers who love luxury on a budget. You’ll find labels like Free People, Madewell, and even the occasional Gucci or Prada item — but without the sticker shock. Every piece here feels intentional, and the staff’s eye for fashion turns resale into an experience.
Why locals love it: It’s upscale but approachable, making sustainable fashion accessible without sacrificing aesthetic.
3. Anthill Antiques: Vintage for the Home
If your idea of treasure hunting leans more toward furniture, décor, or collectibles, Anthill Antiques is a must. Step through its doors and you’re instantly surrounded by chandeliers, ornate mirrors, retro jewelry, and heirloom-quality trinkets.
Every corner feels like a different era — from mid-century modern lamps to Victorian curiosities. It’s the kind of place where one visit isn’t enough; the inventory changes constantly, and you never know what gem you’ll find next.
Perfect for: Home decorators, collectors, or anyone who wants their apartment to tell a story.
4. Luxor Vintage: For the Bold and the Retro
A newer addition to Carytown’s vintage scene, Luxor Vintage specializes in fashion that makes a statement. Expect vibrant colors, 80s jackets, Y2K nostalgia, and reworked streetwear that feels straight out of a music video.
Luxor is a favorite among students, creatives, and anyone who loves a bold look. Their racks mix vintage finds with modern upcycled pieces, blending eras into something fresh.
Fun fact: The owners often host pop-ups featuring local designers and stylists — making it both a shopping trip and a style event.
5. Secondhand Sustainability: The Spirit of Carytown
What makes Carytown’s vintage scene special isn’t just the inventory — it’s the attitude. Shopping secondhand here isn’t about bargains; it’s about sustainability, creativity, and community.
Many of these stores collaborate with local artists, recycle materials, and encourage responsible consumerism. It’s fashion with purpose — and it fits perfectly with Carytown’s independent spirit.
Whether you’re thrifting for fun, outfitting your wardrobe, or furnishing your first apartment, Carytown proves that “new” doesn’t always mean better. In this neighborhood, everything old really is new again.
Conclusion
Carytown’s vintage and antique shops capture the heart of Richmond’s culture — colorful, diverse, and unapologetically original. Every store has its own story, every item a history waiting to be continued.
So the next time you’re strolling down Cary Street, skip the fast fashion and dive into a rack of memories. You might just find your next favorite outfit, conversation piece, or heirloom — all while supporting local businesses and sustainable style.
