Jakarta may not have the thrift shops (cue Ryan Lewis’ beats) of the US, but we have some second hand markets so good, we almost don’t want to share these gold mines!
Note: While shopping for secondhand goods is permitted, selling imported secondhand items has been banned since 2021. The list below had been curated prior to the regulation becoming official.
Macklemore may have popularized thrifting, but all the cool kids know that landing that one-of-a-kind, amazing vintage piece is indescribable and that it has always been awesome. It’s always fun to go shopping, but something about really working through the piles and all the noise makes it worth it, not to mention the amazing deals you get.
If you do go, remember that many of these are non-air-conditioned traditional markets and there are no dressing rooms, so make sure you dress appropriately for the heat, and the surroundings. We also make sure to wear clothes that can fit under other clothes as many times you are trying things on in the middle of the stalls. Make sure to watch your bags and belongings too!
Pasar Senen
This is officially the ABSOLUTE best place to get your second-hand digs. Let us warn you though, a morning at Pasar Senen, is not for the fainthearted, but it is well worth the adventure. The selection is endless, even for menswear! This is also the cheapest of the markets with the price of a dress ranging from Rp. 10,000 and up. Make sure you have your negotiating cap on and bargain hard for the best deals.
A large part of Pasar Senen was recently up in flames, but that has not stopped business. The unaffected wing is still open and the tenants from the destroyed wing are now operating in the parking lot. We recommend some kind of facemask or nose protector if you suffer from allergies because it’s incredibly dusty.
Pasar Atom
Located at one of Jakarta’s oldest and most famous traditional markets, Pasar Baru, Pasar Atom has some of Jakarta’s best second-hand stores. On the third floor of Pasar Atom, tucked close to the back of the market, there is store after store (more like stands) jammed packed with vintage finds. Like all of our recommendations, you do have to dig!
Metro Atom Plaza, Pasar Baru, Jalan KH. Samanhudi, Kemoyoran, Central Jakarta
Blok M Square
Blok M in South Jakarta is a magically crowded, you-can-find-anything kind of place. Between batik, food, and furniture, the shopping complex Blok M Square has everything. Head down to the basement, hidden between stores that sell records, cassettes, books and other second-hand knick-knacks you will find a few awesome little stores with great selections of vintage clothing. We particularly like the unnamed stall at Blok E Unit 169-170 and Rita’s Collection at Unit 135-136. We find Blok M to be the most “expensive” market of the lot but its still affordable; think Rp. 40,000 plus for a dress. Note: Blok E is an area in the massive maze of the basement in Blok M Square.