Le Magasin Du Chaînon

This one may ruffe some feathers; however, as bonafde thrift cultural-commentators (see previous Bull & Bear print issue!) we feel that Le Magasin Du Chaînon wholly deserves its place on this list, despite its unabashed omission of various bells and whistles and general air of early-aughts anachronistic anarchy. The ethos of both the thrift store and the makeover is fundamentally one of change—thus consequence— and, in all honesty, we see no better place to take a risk on the latter than the former. You deserve a neon green imitation-mink coat. You deserve that pair of vintage Docs peering out at you from between intergenerational footwear. You deserve a refreshed bookshelf (i.e, a makeover for the soul) dotted with inexpensive and manifestly chic French and English books. You nearly require a whole host of other obscurities and textile detritus—because if you’re not labouring for that diamond in the rough (although, we might say, this isn’t exactly the ever-formidable bins), are you really trying at all? It’s true that the ethos of a thrift store is change, but “change” proves a relatively low entry-point—any marked-up, half-stained Bart Simpson tee from ‘93 in a well-lit, galleryesque space on Saint Laurent can make a claim to “change’’ or “trendsetting” or whatever. What one might imbibe stepping across the threshold of Le Magasin du Chaînon is authenticity. And this, my friends, is the hallmark of a new you in used clothes.

Nothing to wear? Check out Marche Floh’s insane collection of vintage clothing, streetwear pieces, and accessories galore. Spanning three foors, Marche Floh is any fashion lover’s dream. The vintage shop is home to a huge and varied curation of clothing that can be integrated into any closet: perfect for anyone looking to discover their signature spring style. Leather jackets, vintage jeans, silky lingerie, funky blouses, and go-go boots are just some of the treasures nestled throughout the store. Marche Floh also works with local vendors and artists from Montreal and the surrounding area, encouraging creativity and self-expression through fashion. In the context of this Montreal makeover guide, Marche Floh is the place to go to fnd a statement piece and revamp your wardrobe.