Thrifting in Milan...?

It would be impossible to study under the IES Abroad Milan Fashion Design and Merchandising program without mentioning clothes. The city itself is known as a fashion hub for designers, influencers, and brands. Milan Fashion Week draws thousands of tourists and locals alike to experience the glitz and glamour of self-expression. But if you’re anything like me, you don’t have the budget to shop at Louis Vuitton or Prada for everyday clothes or souvenirs. 

So where can you find cheap, but well-made, products in Milan? 

Back in America, I often visit thrift, consignment, and vintage stores to add to my wardrobe. Thrifting as a concept isn’t very popular in Europe, which I find strange for a continent with multiple countries that fostered the development of fashion. Milan is no exception. Many places labeled as “thrift stores” are actually curated collections with a lot of past-season designer goods priced in the hundreds. These are cool to look around in, but my wallet would never forgive me if I splurged on an eight hundred euro jacket from Chanel. 

Due to my own miscalculation, I ended up packing one too many long sleeve shirts and pants. I assumed the weather would stay cool for a while, but to my surprise 70 degree days started in early March. I was in need of Spring-time clothes and fast, so I tried doing what I would do back home and googled thrift stores near me. I was unsuccessful in this task, and maps only showed me high-end vintage markets with goods too expensive for my funds. 

This is where making friends with locals comes in handy. I spoke with multiple Italian students in my housing and almost all of them recommended two spots I hadn’t come across in my research. The best part was that both storefronts were only two metro stops away from my location. 

In Porta Geneva, just a block away from the metro station, Humana Vintage hosts an array of discounted items. In total, there are two Humana’s in Milan, and I had the pleasure of visiting both. The one in Navigli is smaller, but still has a few hidden gems tucked away. I prefer the larger one a few blocks away from the Duomo Plaza. I found a shirt for 9 euro and a sweater for 14 euro. Though still higher in price than I would like, their selection is the best solution for emergency wardrobe purchases.

Additionally, the antique market in Navigli every last Sunday of the month carries interesting wares. Furniture, art, ceramics, clothing, and vintage designer can be found within the dozens of booths lining the central canals. Like any market, there are expensive things and more affordable things. I’ve been to the market twice since being in Milan and both times I have been able to find a unique, vintage garment for less than one hundred euros.  

My advice to you would be to pack for both winter and spring to avoid having to go clothing shopping at all, but when in Milan… 

The city has so much to offer, and it is completely possible to avoid shopping at fast fashion retailers like Zara, H&M, and Bershka if you know where to look. Definitely don’t miss the Navigli market. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great way to get a glimpse into the streetwear of Milan.