Fans of thrifted fashion have no shortage of places to shop in Pittsburgh. Neighborhoods like Bloomfield, Lawrenceville, and Shadyside are home to small businesses specializing in second-hand clothing, accessories, and housewares. Then there are events like the PGH Vintage Mixer and Neighborhood Flea, where vendors sell a variety of goods ranging from glassware and decor to pop culture collectibles and vinyl.
This year, a new thrift store opened in a familiar place. Construction Junction, a place where do-it-yourselfers can find recycled building materials, appliances, furniture, and other items for home projects, added a thrift section to its many offerings. The Attic, a 1,500-square-foot department tucked away in a corner of Construction Junction’s massive Point Breeze warehouse, showcases a still-growing, curated selection of clothing, accessories, home goods, and curiosities at prices that are either comparable to or less expensive than the average Goodwill.
During a recent visit to The Attic, Pittsburgh City Paper found newer fashions hanging alongside vintage pieces, all of which were in surprisingly decent shape. Shoppers are likely to spot bygone labels like Bugle Boy, custom T-shirts, Pittsburgh-specific merchandise, and unique finds (City Paper photographer Mars Johnson and I marveled at a pair of denim Zara shorts upcycled into a bizarre crop top). All are displayed under taped-up signs reading “Dresses n’At” or “Pants n’At,” adding a charmingly yinz-y spin to the space…