Haute “Culture”: Thrifting + Antiquing in The Palm Beaches

by Hannah Deadman-Arnst

My husband and I are big travelers. In recent years we’ve traversed all over the country. No matter where our adventures take us, we like to really explore the places we visit—including checking out local antique and thrift shops. You just never know what pieces of history, unique artworks, or treasures you’ll uncover! Plus, it’s good for the planet.

When it comes to great thrifting, The Palm Beaches offer plenty of fantastic finds. In fact, there are over 40 stores just on Antique Row! And while many vendors sell rare or fine antiques, I recently discovered there are still lots of thrift and consignment stores that offer a wide selection of goods—all at different price points. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind outfit, furniture with unmatched character, or another record for your vinyl collection, keep reading for an introduction on thrifting and antiquing in The Palm Beaches.

Nearly New Thrift Shop
West Palm Beach
Prices: $$

The Nearly New Thrift Shop on Antique Row features a wide array of items. There’s truly something for everyone here. The first floor is filled with apparel, accessories, books and music, and housewares. When I climbed the stairs to the second floor, I unearthed a treasure trove of vintage furniture, framed art, and chandeliers. While the quality of items at thrift stores can be hit or miss, I was glad to see most items were in really good shape—and reasonably priced! I found a stunning white and gold floral coffee set and a vintage coffee percolator. I was tempted to purchase a couple of beautiful 20th-century hutches—there were so many pretty pieces, it was hard to resist!

 

Trashé Vintage
Lake Worth Beach
Prices: $$

This vintage store is a must-see, especially if you like alternative fashion. Upon walking in, I was greeted by Rusty, the resident shop cat. Despite its punk-rock aesthetic, Trashé offers a great mix of apparel, designer handbags, and shoes, plus lots of vinyl and home decor. While most of the clothes are vintage, there are a handful of new items like graphic tees, platform boots, and funky handmade jewelry. The racks are organized by decade, so you can find items based on the styles you like! I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the pieces and reasonable prices. I found a 1960s Lilly Pulitzer skirt, a Dooney & Bourke handbag, and a couple of cool patterned tops from the 70s. I also loved the beautiful vintage leather jackets—but most were too big for me. You win some, you lose some.

Faustina Pace Antiques & Interiors
West Palm Beach
Prices: $$$

Located on Antique Row, Faustina Pace Antiques is the place to go for beautiful, minimalistic, thoughtfully curated antiques. Like an elevated atelier, the space is separated into six themes and features Swedish, French, and Italian antiques, plus home wares, textiles, outdoor furnishings, 18th century books, and more. I loved the earthiness of the space and how many fantastic pieces I saw. On top of the gorgeous mid-century high-backed chairs from Belgium and 19th-century Swedish bench and Mora clock that I fell in love with, I found a French mid-century bar cart (way out of my price range) and some art that would work well in the bourbon and book library I’m dreaming up.

Church Mouse
Palm Beach
Prices: $$-$$$

Just north of Worth Avenue, the Church Mouse is one of my new favorite places. It’s kind of like Mary Poppins’s carpet bag. The exterior is modest, but inside? The space goes on forever! While the store is beautifully curated, it offers a wide array of goodies, from women’s attire to silver, crystal, china, and vintage furnishings. There are plenty of designer items, including Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton, and popular brands like Zara and Talbots—and most prices are fair. Bonus: the Church Mouse hosts a major sale each June before closing for the summertime. I discovered a beautiful coffee service featuring hand-painted ducks and pheasants—and I’m already making plans to return.

Resource Depot
West Palm Beach
Prices: $

After hearing great things about Resource Depot, I couldn’t wait to visit. They collect donated items that would otherwise go into a landfill, which people can then reuse for crafts, educational activities, and more! In the Materials Marketplace, you can get any—I mean any—item: jars, plastic lids, posters, hardware, fabric squares, you name it. It’s $10 to fill a large bin, $5 for a small. The TreasuRE sells items like old postcards, decor, books, and upcycled wares, and the GalleRE features rotating exhibitions of upcycled artworks. This place isn’t just for artists or teachers who need materials. Need a nice container for your elastic hairbands? Done. You could also grab some glass jars and transform your pantry into a Marie Kondo-joy-sparking space. Why buy something new when there are plenty of used items waiting to be loved again? Saving the planet and money? It’s a win-win.

Wearluv Consignment
North Palm Beach
Prices: $$$

With an emphasis on designs from Valentino, Gucci, Hermes, and more, Wearluv features a big collection of couture. This cute, curated shop also includes gems from lesser-known brands. While many of the pieces are on the pricier side, they’re in great shape. Plus, many items are priced with discount stickers—which means a good bargain is not too hard to find if you have patience and look carefully! Wearluv also offers a wide variety of handmade accessories, many of which are crafted by local artisans. I really enjoyed browsing all the great denim shirts and jackets! I was also excited to see so many Lilly Pulitzer blouses and dresses—a staple in any Palm Beach woman’s wardrobe.

Other can’t-miss stops:

Ready to shop til you drop? To start planning your trip to The Palm Beaches, click here.