When I first moved to Italy, I really missed going charity shopping. I loved the idea of popping into a charity shop, browsing around, and sometimes finding a real little treasure. I used to go in just to look around, have a chat with the staff, and see what had come in.
In the UK, the high street is full of charity shops. I actually volunteered in a Cancer Research shop while I was studying at university, so second-hand shopping has always felt quite normal to me.
When I moved to Italy, I searched for charity shops but quickly realised they’re few and far between. There are some one of the best-known is Humana Vintage, which has shops dotted around Italy but the prices tend to be higher than a typical British charity shop. Humana mainly focuses on clothing, and although it’s still a great shop supporting a good cause, it didn’t quite give me the same feeling.
After a few years of accepting that charity shops aren’t really “a thing” here, I visited Balon Vintage Market in Turin. That visit changed everything. Since then, I’ve slowly grown fond of visiting different second-hand and vintage markets around the city. My interest in vintage items and shopping in general has definitely changed since moving to Italy.
Quality Over Quantity
Living in Italy has helped me become a much more conscious buyer. Italians generally prefer quality over quantity not just with food, but in everyday life.
I now shop with the environment in mind and prefer to buy clothes made from natural fibres such as cotton, wool, and linen. I find these fabrics last for years, especially when they’re cared for properly. They also feel better on the skin, are more breathable, and naturally adjust to body temperature.
Choosing quality over quantity has had a positive impact on the way I shop. It feels more intentional, and I think that mindset is very present in Italian culture.
The same applies to furniture. When it comes to vintage furniture, I really appreciate the craftsmanship. Many older pieces are built to last a lifetime, especially when you compare them to some modern furniture today. Don’t get me wrong I also love modern design but only when it’s well made and built to last.
Markets Make Second-Hand Shopping Easy in Italy
There are lots of vintage and second-hand markets around Turin, and I still haven’t visited even half of them. I’ve already written a blog post listing the vintage markets in Turin, which I’ll continue updating as I discover more.
One of the things I love is how easy it is to explore beyond the city. Milan is right on my doorstep, so if I ever feel like a change, I can hop on a train and explore antique markets in Milan or other nearby cities.
What’s great is that many vintage and second-hand markets in Turin run all year round, even during the winter months. Second-hand shopping here feels like part of everyday life not something niche or alternative.
It’s a Nice Day Out (Even If You Buy Nothing)
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There’s no pressure to buy anything, which I really like.
A couple of weeks ago, my in-laws called and asked if I wanted to go with them to Balon on a Sunday. Of course I said yes. We didn’t actually buy anything that day, but it was still a really nice way to spend the morning. We even took the dog along and stopped for a coffee in between browsing the stalls.
It’s great for:
- wandering
- people watching
- browsing stalls
- soaking up the atmosphere
- stopping at coffee shops
- taking your time
Even if you go home empty-handed, it never feels like a wasted trip.
What I’ve Actually Bought Over Time
Over the years, I’ve bought a real mix of things from second-hand markets, including:
- real leather and shearling coats
- vases
- jigsaw puzzles
- small home items
Some pieces I keep for years, others I eventually pass on again. I like that things can have more than one life.
Getting Older Changed How I Shop
Even though second-hand items are often less expensive, I still don’t overbuy. When I was younger, I definitely bought things just for the sake of buying them and a lot of those items ended up sitting unused in my wardrobe.
Now, I buy with intention. I really can’t stand clutter, and I regularly donate or sell things I no longer need. I care less about trends, although I’ll admit it’s hard not to be influenced sometimes.
Every now and then, I stop and ask myself:
Do I actually like this item or is it just everywhere right now?
But that’s probably a story for another day!
Why Second-Hand Shopping Suits My Life Now
Second-hand shopping suits my life because it feels slower, more intentional, and genuinely enjoyable. There’s no rush, no pressure to consume, and no need to constantly keep up with trends.
I like taking my time, choosing things carefully, and appreciating quality and craftsmanship. Whether I buy something or not, visiting markets has become something I enjoy for the experience just as much as the items themselves.
And that’s why second-hand shopping in Italy feels right for me it fits the pace of life I want now.
See you in the next post.
xoxo Rebeah
