5 Secondhand markets to visit in Cape Town

Now and then (or maybe all too often), you may spot something gorgeous at the mall – only to feel your heart sink when you check the price tag. But your plans to redo your living room, spoil yourself with a new dress or even grab a new book aren’t totally ruined. These five secondhand markets are the ideal place to find handy – and stylish – buys at a cost your bank account actually can handle.

1 The Vintage Experience

The Vintage Experience is a project that aims to connect old-world fashion fanatics with the grandeur of bygone days. Pop in at one of the many Vintage Experience pop-up shopping fairs and festivals where you can purchase chic pieces that benefit charity outlets. If you don’t want to shop ’til you drop, you can take a break and just enjoy the market vibes with tasty treats and food, plus The Vintage Experience’s choice of old-school tracks.

OF NOTE
When According to Facebook
Where According to Facebook
Contact +27 72 538 2211, [email protected], thevintageexperience.co.za, Facebook

2 Die Kattebak Market

For two Saturdays a month, Woodstock regulars can indulge in a relaxed and eccentric shopping event showcasing the offerings of its artsy suppliers: Die Kattebak Market. Look forward to a hearty dose of secondhand garb along with eye-catching artwork and handmade trinkets. Feeling peckish? Head on over to one of the food stalls to savour craft beer and top-notch wine amongst other sumptuous snacks.

OF NOTE
When Every second and last Saturday of the month, 10 am – 3 pm
Where The Palms Decor and Lifestyle Centre, 145 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock
Contact +27 21 462 0394, [email protected], palms.co.za

3 The Truth Market

One of South Africa’s premiere coffee shops hosts a night market on the first Wednesday of every month. Expect to find anything from vintage dresses and jackets to footwear and jewellery, sold by up to 18 traders. The hand poke tattoo artists and pop-up barber will keep you looking spiffy while live entertainment will turn your retail therapy experience into a fun evening out. Delish eats and beverages will also be available to sweeten the deal.

OF NOTE
When First Wednesday of the month, 7 pm till late
Where Truth Coffee, 36 Buitenkant Street, CBD
Contact +27 21 200 0440, [email protected], Facebook

4 Official Second Hand Market

Presented by the founders of Second Hand Group on Facebook, this market has brought the online vintage experience to the streets. With more than 100 stalls at the last one, you can eagerly anticipate being spoilt for choice! Unwind by enjoying the live music of talented local artists, drop off donations for the underprivileged and, of course, shop up a storm. It’s a much-loved market so it’s best you arrive early to nab the best goodies. Note that vendors only accept cash and there are no ATMs on the premises.

OF NOTE
When One Saturday a month, 10:30 am – 3:30 pm
Where Novalis Ubuntu Institute, Rosmead Avenue, Kenilworth
Cost R10 for adults, R5 for kids under 11 years old
Contact [email protected], Facebook

5 Church Street Antique Market

Situated in a tree-lined portion of Church street in the CBD, this bazaar is a fine gem of the Cape market scene. Twenty quaint stalls are set up, stocking a tasteful selection of collectables, bric-a-brac, vintage fashion, and African curios and paintings. Occasionally, the sounds of beating African drums add to the already lively atmosphere and if you’re on the market to please your belly, pop into one of the trendy eateries nearby.

OF NOTE
Where Church Street, CBD
When Monday to Saturday 8 am – 4 pm
Contact +27 21 438 8566, [email protected]

Photography Clem Onojeghuo, Annie Sprat, Hannah Morgan, Barby Dalbosco/Unsplash, courtesy images