By Kedryn Chandler
Thrifting provides mixed reactions among people. While some people cringe at wearing second-hand clothes, others embrace the opportunity to express themselves through different styles. For those who cherish this opportunity, here are the best places to thrift on different mediums for Southern Virginia Students.
1) Roanoke Goodwill Bins
Coming in at the top of the list is the Roanoke Goodwill Bins. The store is about 55 minutes away and easy to browse through if you ever find yourself in Roanoke. The reason this thrift store makes the top of the list is not only because it is a larger selection, but the cheapness of the merchandise is unmatched. People may not like this type of thrifting since going through bins can sometimes be tedious and somewhat sanitary, but if you brave the troughs, you won’t be disappointed. (1489 E Main St, Salem, VA 24152)
2) Dorm VTG
An off-campus shop that is open Wednesdays by appointment. Finds are always hits. This shop has been in operation since the fall 2023 semester and will continue to be open this semester. The shop is run and maintained by Mathew Africa (’25 Biochemistry) the creator of the shop. The location of the shop has changed this semester, but it will still produce pieces that can’t be matched. (2314 Walnut Ave, Buena Vista, VA 24416) https://www.instagram.com/dormvtg?igsh=MTA5bXR0Z2Nhc2VqbA==
3) $5 Thrift
An on-campus option that pops up occasionally, this unique store comes into play once a semester, though mainly run through the store’s Instagram. This store is run by SVU Alum Josh Skabelund (’23, Business). The homage Josh pays to the school brings in thrifters from all around campus. The deals that they run incite even more to run when the shop pops up. Like buy five articles of clothing, get the sixth free. https://www.instagram.com/5_dollar_thrift?igsh=eTRpazdzYzhmMzI1
4) Uptown Cheapskate, Charlottesville
Just 75 minutes from the school is the largest Uptown Cheapskate store within an hour and a half and the second closest to the school after Uptown Cheapskate, Roanoke. The selection is large compared to other thrifts and all kinds of styles can be found there. The shoe selection is second to none, selling prime condition Jordan 3’s and Doc Marten 1460s. Prices do tend to go up, but good finds are left and right, all in immaculate condition. (374 Hillsdale Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22901)
5) Uptown Cheapskate, Roanoke
Supplies are rare and lack appeal. Another downside is the higher price than that of its competitor, Goodwill. The higher quality of pieces is the only bonus from the store. Though not the best option to thrift at, its convenience in Roanoke drives some appeal. (1411 Towne Square Blvd NW, Roanoke, VA 24012
6) Lexington Goodwill
Coming in at the bottom of the list is the Lexington Goodwill. While the options are limited and good finds are rare, finds do happen every once in a while. A bonus is the 10-minute drive on Highway 60 from the school. (8 Woodcote Ln, Lexington, VA 24450)
There are many places to go thrifting within a close distance of the school. Some of them have great finds, some of them not so much. Are there any other close thrift shops that meet the criteria thrifters look for?
Penny Pinch: Where to Thrift Near SVU was originally published in The Herald on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.
