A curated monthly dose of lifestyle, culture, and rhythm from San Miguel de Allende.
Mar knows where San Miguel hides its best secondhand finds. Four places to hunt.
Hi, my name is Mar. I’m a proudly Mexican designer born in Mexico City, and I specialize in graphic design and fashion design — which I consider my true passion.
I’m one of those people who loves animals and nature, someone who deeply cares about the world we live in. I’ve always tried to be a conscious consumer throughout my life — though it wasn’t always that way. It was actually my curiosity that led me to research more and more, and realize that the reality behind the fashion industry is very different from what brands, multinational corporations, society, and the system at large tell us.
This has caused me enormous concern over the negative impact that one of my biggest passions — fashion — can have, especially when paired with the consumerism that society has taught us as a symbol of acceptance and belonging. That pressure pushes us to buy clothes compulsively, with 32 seasons a year, spending money we often don’t even have. So I ask myself: Is it really necessary to buy that much clothing?
If there are already absurd amounts of clothing on the planet, why not give it a second life? Especially when it’s vintage — clothes with history, made of excellent fabrics, natural fibers, and great quality with strong design value. But more importantly: unique clothes. Clothes that allow us to tell our own story. Clothes that express who we are and break us out of the LOOP we live in — where everyone dresses the same.
Why keep buying “cheap” clothing from massive franchises without knowing the cruelty and labor exploitation behind the piece we’re wearing?
We can’t keep ignoring this problem. I truly believe that if we come together, we can make a real change and address the root of it. I firmly believe we could create a positive impact in many areas: environmental, economic, and human.
That’s how my love affair with vintage culture was born, and how I realized the power of giving things a second life — along with appreciating the work of emerging designers, artisans, and artists.
In this section of SAVANT, I’ll be talking fashion — sharing my best recommendations, secrets, and tips. I’ll be your best guide for second-hand shopping like a pro in San Miguel de Allende!
Need a break between shops? San Miguel also has some incredible hotel pool day passes perfect for cooling off.
Looking for other things to do in San Miguel? The city has a thriving wellness scene — check out our guide to the best Pilates studios in San Miguel de Allende.
In this first article, I’m sharing the four best places to buy Vintage and Second-Hand clothing.
Before judging, lead by example — be a first-class citizen wearing second-hand clothes!
With love,
MAR xo
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Located in the heart of San Miguel de Allende, just a 5-minute walk from the Parroquia, you’ll find Mushroom Vintage, a vintage and designer clothing store.
From the moment you walk in, you’re transported to another era — the decor features old TVs, antique phones, and other relics.
You’ll probably hear music ranging from The Beatles to Michael Jackson. All the pieces are one-of-a-kind, and they sell both men’s and women’s clothing with a wide selection, from the 1940s to current styles.
You can also find fun items like:
They also feature a section with local designers, where you can discover some truly unique finds. This place is full of gems.
They have their own super fun merch, inspired by mushrooms, and a killer selection of cowboy boots you have to see for yourself.
TIP: On Mondays you can TRADE clothes for FREE!
They also buy clothes and accept items on consignment.
Open from 11 am to 7 pm.
Locations:
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Los Sueños is a consignment store that’s been around for over 10 years.
Most of the clothing is second-hand, with a mix of new and vintage pieces. You can find amazing items at super accessible prices — some vintage, some modern — but all in great condition.
They carry:
There’s something for every style — from fun, colorful pieces to more formal, neutral-toned options.
Check out either of their two locations:
Open from 11 am to 5 pm.
Instagram: @lossuenosboutique
Yellow Boutique is a second-hand clothing store with high standards and great curation.
They’re meticulous with their selection, and the shop stands out for offering well-chosen pieces — most of which are recognizable brands and even some designer labels.
Their focus is on high-quality fabrics and natural fibers.
The shopping experience is super enjoyable — everything is well organized, and the store is located inside a plaza with parking, which makes it even more convenient.
Location: Plaza Hacienda La Aurora
Instagram: @layellowboutique
You can’t miss the Tuesday Market — a must-experience adventure.
Go early and be ready to get lost in the maze of concrete stalls, starting at 7 a.m., where you can hunt for hidden treasures.
Dive into piles and piles of colorful clothes, fabrics, and textures. Each week, vendors from nearby communities bring in second-hand garments by the kilo. It’s truly an unforgettable experience.
Pro tips:
Location: Between Boulevard de la Conspiración and Los Bomberos (Fire Station).
Thrifting in San Miguel de Allende isn’t just about scoring a deal — it’s a way of living with more intention, more style, and more soul. Whether you’re swapping boots on a Monday at Mushroom Vintage, sifting through racks of curated second-hand gems at Yellow Boutique, or digging for dusty treasure at the Tuesday tianguis, each piece tells a story — and maybe, helps you tell yours a little louder.
So next time you reach for something new, ask yourself: does it already exist, and is it better that way?
See you in the racks.
— Mar
Your vintage-obsessed guide to fashion with a conscience
While you’re planning your time in San Miguel, don’t miss our complete guide to San Miguel de Allende’s festivals — the city’s calendar is packed year-round.
A curated monthly dose of lifestyle, culture, and rhythm from San Miguel.
