If you’ve been to vibrant Harajuku in Tokyo or explored a lively junkyard filled with a delightful mishmash of items, then you can begin to envision the atmosphere of this space. Hidden (and I mean really hidden) within an industrial building, Thrifteyseconds bursts with vibrant energy. This thrift store provides a sanctuary for self-expression and artistic freedom, serving as a haven where young vendors can rent a space to showcase and sell their unique items.
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The warehouse holds everything from everyone. From apparels, wares, memorabilia, toys, basically everything that is wild and seemingly out of reach for us in Singapore, you can find it here.
You won't have trouble spotting this place; just look for a gate adorned with an assortment of stickers and eccentric prints to know that you have arrived at your destination. Upon entering, prepare to be overwhelmed by an abundance of intriguing gems in every nook and cranny. “The warehouse holds everything from everyone. From apparels, wares, memorabilia, toys, basically everything that is wild and seemingly out of reach for us in Singapore, you can find it here,” says Thrifteyseconds.
Thrifteyseconds has three arms – the main space, Thrifteyseconds, sells vintage apparels, bags and wearables; Kitschyseconds sells vintage watches, jewellery, glassware, decors; and Tokyoseconds sells vintage toys and collectibles. They are all housed within the same space, separated into different categories.
Going back to how it all started
After a 15-year career in the oil and gas industry, founder FT (not her real name) made a decision to pursue something closer to her heart. Through having spent several years abroad and being exposed to flea markets, she developed a profound appreciation for sustainability, a deep passion for the art of thrifting, and a strong connection to the culture surrounding it.
‘Thrift’ means to thrift away from fast fashion and ‘seconds’ symbolises the secondhand goods and it being a second home.
Thus, in 2018, Thrifteyseconds was born. Based on the concept of a contemporary vintage flea market, it welcomed numerous small businesses, artisans, collectors, and resellers, offering them a platform at minimal rental costs. You see that ethos in its name: ‘thrift’ means to thrift away from fast fashion and ‘seconds’ symbolises the secondhand goods and it being a second home.
Starting out as a modest 150 sqft warehouse, Thrifteyseconds became a hub housing all kinds of unique items to be sold or traded. The space grew to a whopping 1300 sqft after partnering up with two new co-founders. Till date, they are still looking to expand further. “We didn't expect that our way of popularising unwanted secondhand goods would garner a strong interest in Gen Z and Alphas. This further empowered us in advocating for greater appreciation of second-hand goods. We are still looking to expand our storage space by the year 2025 to cater to a growing number of guests and local artisans, crafters, makers who shop here for their own upcycling projects,” says the co-founders.
An aspiration to cultivate a safe space for all
Thrifteyseconds was also envisioned to foster a safe space for individuals from the LGBTQ+ community and anyone with an interest in vintage secondhand collectibles. Naturally, it has become a gathering spot for like-minded friends to come together and share their passion. Whether it was relishing the vibrant aesthetics of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, appreciating iconic artists, treasured nostalgic cartoons and movies, music, art, or embracing the distinct fashion styles of Harajuku, Y2K, cyberpunk, and psychedelic influences, there is something for everyone to celebrate and enjoy. With the growing popularity of thrift culture, younger parents are also actively seeking out spaces like these to bring their children thrifting.
However, all visits are strictly by appointment only to maintain the visitor’s privacy. “We have increasing visits from creative people who crave nostalgia as their muse and enjoy the privacy of the space,” they share.
We hope that more people can enjoy sustainability in creative ways which will in turn help close the eco loop – to renew, reduce fast merchandise, recycle, reuse, reinvent, repurpose, rehome. To put it in our own words, Thrifteyseconds is just a warehouse for people to visit when they are seeking some rainbows in their lives.
Generating an endless loop of kindness
Thrifteyseconds also focuses on giving back to the community. “We don’t see ourselves as a retail store or a commercialised business. Our warehouse is a social community enterprise and rental is largely subsidised by our founders. 100 percent of proceeds goes back to small business owners, our chosen charitable organisations, and welfare or sponsorship partners. We also provide free clothing and other wares to needy students and the LGBTQ+ community,” they explain.
Ultimately, Thrifteyseconds stands as a museum, a treasure trove and a happy place that celebrates shared interests and cultivates a sense of belonging. Here, individuals can gather, explore, and simply enjoy a great laugh together.
“We are here mostly to support the love of secondhand, promote sustainable eco-friendly shopping, and rehome unwanted goods from one to another. We hope that more people can enjoy sustainability in creative ways which will in turn help close the eco loop – to renew, reduce fast merchandise, recycle, reuse, reinvent, repurpose, rehome. To put it in our own words, Thrifteyseconds is just a warehouse for people to visit when they are seeking some rainbows in their lives. If there's one thing we would like to share, it is to be yourself. Your passion will lead you to your purpose. And that your focus and support will eventually find you,’ shares the founders.
Make an appointment by reaching out to them on Instagram here.
