Finding clothes that fit Westerners is not easy in Hanoi – with the Vietnamese body shape and a Western body shape being built totally different. As a result, many foreigners need to order online (typically needing 4XL or more just to fit a normal Western sized body) or rely on second hand fairs which occur at weekends (more typically during the summer months).
Fortunately, to address this issue there have in the past few years been an emerging second-hand clothing scene. This market offers a sustainable shopping alternative as not only can your purchase but also drop off your old clothes. There are an increasing number of shops – particularly in the Tay Ho area which are starting to realise the second hand shop popularity – however this article explores the different ranges of second hand shops in Hanoi which cater for different tastes and price ranges.
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Green Gem Shop
Location and Overview
The most popular and probably the best second hand shop is Green Gem Shop. This is located at No. 11, alley 54A, lane 603, Lac Long Quan St. Xuan La ward, Tay Ho district, Hanoi, which is quite near the two dragons’ area with a street of cafes so nicely situated. As it is so well-known there is a large range of second hand clothes as people regularly drop things off so every time you visit there is a new range of items to choose from.
What They Sell
Green Gem offers a very wide selection of second-hand clothes, a small but high quality range of shoes and a few accessories. In addition, there is a small shelf of second hand books and there may be some bags or small items. You can also purchase refillable soaps and washing materials which are all hand made.
In relation to the second hand clothes, there is a very wide range – from casual wear, office attire to unique vintage pieces. These are all in Western sizes and there is even a large size rail for the larger Western body!
Green Gem stands out for its quality control, ensuring that all items are in good condition and clean.
- Support for Charity: Green Gem Shop was founded by people involved with the non profit – Keep Vietnam Clean – so all of the money made is donated to support environmental protection – making every purchase more meaningful.
Pricing
Prices at Green Gem are very reasonable. Clothing items typically range from VND 50,000 to VND 200,000 ($2.15 to $8.60 USD), while accessories like shoes and bags can cost between VND 100,000 and VND 300,000 ($4.30 to $12.90 USD). This makes it an affordable option for high-quality, second-hand fashion.
In addition, there is a basket outside the shop which has totally free items which you can take as needed.
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Second-Hand Shops in Tay Ho District
Tay Ho, known as Hanoi’s expatriate hub, is home to several excellent second-hand shops that attract both locals and foreigners. Here are a few notable ones:
The Clothing Exchange
Location and Overview
Located at 33, Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho District, The Clothing Exchange is a popular destination for second-hand clothing. This shop operates on a swap-and-buy basis, encouraging sustainable fashion practices.
What They Sell
The Clothing Exchange offers a wide variety of second hand clothes, including casual wear, formal attire, and sportswear. They also stock accessories like hats, belts, and bags. The inventory is refreshed regularly, ensuring a good mix of items.
- Support for Charity: The Clothing Exchange supports local communities by donating unsold items to charity. They also organize community events and workshops on sustainable fashion and environmental awareness.
- Suitability for Western Bodies: Given its location in an expatriate-friendly district, The Clothing Exchange stocks many items suitable for Western body sizes. This makes it a convenient spot for foreigners looking for clothes that fit well.
Pricing
Prices here are slightly higher due to the swap model and curated selection. Items generally range from VND 100,000 to VND 300,000 ($4.30 to $12.90 USD), but the quality and variety justify the cost.
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Kilo Shop
Location and Overview
Situated at 25 Au Co, Tay Ho District, Kilo Shop offers a unique shopping experience where clothes are sold by weight. This promotes sustainable fashion by making second-hand shopping both fun and economical.
What They Sell
Kilo Shop has a vast selection of clothing, including everyday wear, vintage items, and even some designer pieces. Accessories such as shoes, bags, and jewellery are also available.
- Support for Charity: While Kilo Shop primarily focuses on sustainability, it also engages in charitable activities by supporting local initiatives and donating a portion of its profits to environmental causes.
- Suitability for Western Bodies: Kilo Shop’s inventory is sourced from various international locations, ensuring a good range of sizes, including those suitable for Western shoppers. This inclusivity is one of the shop’s main attractions.
Pricing
Items are priced by weight, typically around VND 200,000 per kilogram ($8.60 USD/kg). This pricing model allows shoppers to get more value for their money, especially when purchasing lighter items like t-shirts and dresses.
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Collective Memory
Location and Overview
Located at 20 Nghi Tam, Tay Ho District, Collective Memory is a boutique-style second-hand shop that focuses on high-quality, stylish items. It’s a favourite among fashion-forward expatriates and locals alike.
What They Sell
Collective Memory offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. The shop is known for its stylish and often unique pieces, making it a great place to find something special.
- Support for Charity: Collective Memory supports various local charities, particularly those focused on women’s empowerment and children’s education. The shop regularly donates a portion of its profits and organizes fundraising events.
- Suitability for Western Bodies: With a significant expatriate customer base, Collective Memory ensures that their inventory includes sizes suitable for Western body types.
Pricing
Prices at Collective Memory are higher than average second-hand shops due to the boutique nature of the store. Clothing items typically range from VND 200,000 to VND 500,000 ($8.60 to $21.50 USD), but the quality and uniqueness of the pieces make it worthwhile.
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The second-hand and charity shop scene in Hanoi, particularly in the Tay Ho district and at the Green Gem Shop, offers an excellent blend of affordability, sustainability, and social impact. These shops provide a diverse range of clothing and accessories – with the majority of the items suitable for Western body sizes.
Whether you’re looking for everyday wear, unique vintage pieces, or stylish accessories, Hanoi’s second-hand shops have something for everyone – so stop guessing your size on the online sites and being constantly disappointed with what you receive and explore the second hand clothing market in Hanoi !
