The Best Consignment Stores in Toronto

The best consignment stores in Toronto bring Gucci to the H&M set and give a second life to frocks and footwear otherwise destined for the fashion graveyard.

I'm a thrifter. Growing up on garage sales and flea markets has taken its toll, I suppose. Oh sure, I believe in investment pieces, but they are purchased, typically, with a hesitant hand on my wallet. These out-of-my-league add-ons are the anchors in an otherwise budget-conscious wardrobe. I live for the thrill of the find (and a great deal) - the Runway at Winners, a church basement rummage sale, clothing swaps. But sometimes I might covet a Marc Jacobs handbag or a pair of Kate Spade flats, knowing that even the sale price is unattainable. Consignment shopping is my happy medium.

And when I'm over my purchase or it's, like, so last season, the proprietors of Toronto's finest consignment shops will happily take it off my hands. Buyer's remorse no more! While not everyone is keen on the second-hand aspect, I'll ask you to consider this: in the dating market, we'll easily snap up seconds. So if we'll take that girl's ex-conquest, why not the dress she wore to score said fella?

Here are the best consignment stores in Toronto.

See also:

The best vintage clothing stores in Toronto

Fashionably Yours

I marvel over a pair of Betsey Johnson suede platform mary janes (in my size!) while my shopping partner finds some Ben Sherman gems among the men’s shirts. The focus here is designer, but the odd down-market piece might turn up here and there. The shop has nailed customer service - super friendly and not pushy. Coveted item? Preen black lace dress with sweetheart neckline for $400. More »

LAB Consignment

This teeny-tiny shared space houses only the best of the best in previously-rocked goods. Owner Lauren Baker is choosy about what she takes in, but it makes for great shopping. Not solely vintage, LAB carries a nice mix of new designers, too. The eclectic result is just what’s made this relative new kid on the block a fast favourite. Steal? Just in time for wedding season, a gorgeous tiered Adam Lippes mini dress is $320 ($435 new). More »

69 Vintage Collective

Dashing urban lumberjacks and pretty vintage darlings staff this well-stocked mecca for flashback fashion. The merch is carefully curated, steamed and displayed in a refreshingly shoppable and breathable way. Drawers spilling over with negligee, racks of glittery prom dresses, and a plethora of plaid make for a fun hunt. Best find? A vintage camera-sized Coach bag for $45. More »

Haute Classics

Designer denim and high-end handbags look barely worn. You’d swear that they hadn’t lived another life, yet the price tags say otherwise. Under-$500 Prada bags mingle with $100 Betsey Johnson frocks and $20 Rock & Republic jeans. For those looking to sell some rarely worn duds, Haute pays 60% of the selling point to the consignor (the norm is 50/50). Great find? Armani white tweed jacket for $225. More »

The Cat's Meow

This Avenue Road shop has been a destination for designer vintage consignment for 5 years. High end labels like Chanel and Hermes dominate and the focus is 1950s and 60s vintage. The Cat's Meow excels in dresses, and owner Louise Cooper services many brides looking for “something different” and classic. Check out the back of the shop where, after 60 days, pieces are gradually marked down. Jaw-dropper? A 60s silk Pucci-esque Bessi mini-dress for $400. More »

Revival Couture

This huge Eglinton West designer consignment boutique was born from the retail genius of owner-duo Christine Hadden and Donna Nesrallah. The shop carries gently-used clothing and accessories from high-end labels like Chanel Chloe and D&G. The products are so carefully selected and merchandised, you might not suspect they were second-hand. Good finds? Pink suede YSL platform pumps and a one-shoulder ruffle Kabi dress. More »

Second Time Around

In this heart-of-Yorkville spot, expect to find designer duds at up to 70% off the original retail price. The pieces had previous owners, sure, but the almost-new condition would fool anyone. Labels like Gucci and Lanvin are regularly spotted. Would you expect anything less from Yorkville? Best bets? Splurge handbags. More »

Off the Cuff Designer Menswear

With exceptions, many of the men I know wouldn’t be bothered with consignment shopping. Shopping in general just isn’t top priority in their minds, and the necessary chore is pure in-and-out function. But Off The Cuff has managed to achieve a dude-friendly shopping experience. Guys can get expert help in choosing an Armani suit (at a serious discount) or navigating the designer ties. Boy-approved finds? A wide selection of branded denim under $80. More »

Coco's Closet

Another newish addition to our list, Coco’s Closet services Toronto’s Bloor West ‘hood. The small boutique carries curated mix of high-end labels and young modern brands. From Dior to Theory to Banana Republic, there are price points for every budget. Owner Nadia Trelle takes pride in her work, which shows - the selection is gorgeous and the space is inviting. Shop stand-out? Knock-‘em-dead work-wear. More »