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American Way Thrift Store
Category: Shopping Thrift Stores Thrift Stores [Edit]
3226 W Magnolia BlvdBurbank, CA 91505
Neighborhood: Burbank
(818) 841-6013
- Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun 9 am - 6 pm
Wed 9 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
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$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
78 reviews for American Way Thrift Store
Review Highlights
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"Give yourself some time to look through." In 4 reviews -
"will you find a lot of awesome vintage." In 25 reviews -
"i've gotten work pants from here with ease, dirt cheap." In 4 reviews
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78 reviews in English
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Review from S d.
Los Angeles, CA
5/16/2012 1 Check-in Here
I've passed by here a few times and I was always curious to see what the store had in hand.
I love that there's parking in the back and when I came into the store there wasn't anything pretty about it, but there are tons and tons of goodies to go through. Prices are decent and I'll definitely be coming back here again. -
Review from Jim D.
Burbank, CA
3/20/2012
This place used to be great a few years ago for electronics and stereo equipment but they hired some guy who picks out the best stuff, hides it in the back and sells it to guys who have deals set up with him. They show up once a week and take the best stuff.
Darn shame, it was fun to find neat stuff at a reasonable price and take a shot that it would work correctly. Now the only things they try to sell are basically junk.
2 bad. -
Review from Christopher C.
Echo Park, Los Angeles, CA
1/26/2012
LOTS of random stuff. Racks on racks of clothes. You can spend a decent amount of time sifting through all their oddities. Picked up a nice Lakers jersey for $3.
For some reason they have a ton of golf clubs and VCRs. -
Review from Julianna D.
WEST HILLS, CA
5/25/2012
Make sure to check what their specials are before going. Like if you spend over $20 during the week you get 50% off! They have everything from clothing and shoes, furniture, toys, electronics, books, jewelry, appliances and so much more! Make sure to read more here: http://bit.ly/K6dZh8
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Review from Craig M.
Los Angeles, CA
3/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
This place is ginormous! All kinds of crap everywhere. It's like a goodwill on drugs. I have to say the first thing I noticed, after the size of it, was the smell. I think it was a requirement or at least expected, that you go in there and just start letting them rip. Holy crap did it smell like hell. I had to wash my clothes when I got home(kidding).
When you finally adjust to the smell, there is plenty to look at. I will say I found some great deals on some books and other knick knicks and prices are pretty cheap for most things. And at the register, they took an additional amount off automatically when they rang it up, so for less than $20 I walked out with two bags full of stuff. -
Review from Jessica C.
Burbank, CA
Based only on donation drop off, I finally cleared out allot of things I didn't' need in my apartment and wanted to donated them, I called previously to find out where the drop of location was and was told it was in the alley, when we went to the alley there was nothing there just trash bins.. so this confused me.. so we went to a door entrance which was employee entrance only and was told it's by the trash bins.. NO it's not, no one is there, granted it never rains in California and this day is was POURING but still where's the donation drop off I have my poor nephew out there with a bags and a Christmas tree in a box to drop off. The guy finally just took the stuff from us and as we drove off, the donation door was opened. I understand it's cold and raining but people still want to run their errands and drop things off, why make it so difficult, just keep the door open!
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Review from Rachel B.
1/16/2012
This is a thrift store in the classic sense, not a cute vintage store... I came here kinda drunk one Sunday morning this past fall, and I kinda felt like I was in the alien space ship from that movie, District 9.
It's kinda crowded with stuff, full of lots of people and funny smells, and it's not merchandised particularly well, but then again, what true thrift store is?
This is the kind of place you walk into with a general idea of what you need or want, and then you walk out with bags of random things that you've happened to find. After all, who can turn down a $3 ceramic clown??? -
Review from Felicia A.
Los Angeles, CA
3/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
I have to admit that I have only been here once and it was on a day that I was looking for some specific items. That being said, this thrift shop is one of those kinds that you have to be in a very thrifty mood, with plenty of time on your hands. I am an avid thrift shopper but this one requires a lot more patience and diligence to walk away with something worthy. Its jammed packed with used things...I'm sure there are gems but if you are thinking of going here prepare to stick around for a few hours if you really want to walk out with something. The place wasn't very well organized and there were a lot of junky things (by that I mean broken items) I noticed on the shelves. It also seemed quite dirty and all over the place.
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Review from Derek A.
Los Angeles, CA
10/25/2011
I pioneered thrift shopping in the early 1980s. Long before it was trendy. I've been coming to this store since the late 80s. It was once a Thrifty Drug Store and still has the original terazzo floor with the Thrifty logo out front.
This particular store is not quite as organized or clean as some thrift stores are now, but I find that to part of their charm.
Some of these clothes look like they could stand in the corner on their own. Wash before wear unless you like crotch crickets! Great place to people watch too, is that Baby Jane Hudson over there in the corner rummaging through psychadelic polyester bikini bottoms?
DIRT CHEAP prices. I mean rock bottom. Nice considering since Goodwill & Salvation Army are not that cheap anymore.
Spotty customer service depending on who is at the register. "Look biotch, I'm selling you a vintage 70's handbag for $1.99, you want a smile too?"
You get what you pay for honey! -
Review from Stephanie C.
Cerritos, CA
12/29/2011
I like this thrift store because they have decent china. I purchase old china patterns and make cake stands or little gifts with them, and their china is usually a decent price. The mugs are about 50 cents, the plates from $1 - 3, which is decent. Their clothes leave something to be desired. I had to really really look to find a sweater for my mom that wouldn't show her belly button. The men's clothing is better than the women's, I think. The furniture is not that great. But the china... I go for the china. :)
Also - if the lot behind them is full, just park at the church across the street. -
Review from Marc E.
Los Angeles, CA
3/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
It's hit or miss with this place. Before thrift stores became so trendy you could find some awesome attire with no effort. Now you have to work at it but it's fun.
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Review from Erika L.
Northridge, CA
2/20/2012
I stopped in here this past weekend. There was a time when I would make regular visits, but it had been a while. It was really sad to see all the regular, local family thrifters seeking out the deals while the resalers are snatching up all the good stuff. -Seems like the word is out and the vultures with ebay re-sales and shops are cleaning up on discount day. Two women passed by me, both geared up with their anti-dirty hands thrift store shopping gloves, fanny packs and giant carts filled to the brim with all the good kids clothes. I walked out, for the first time ever, with nothing. :(
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Review from katia s.
Los Angeles, CA
4/20/2011
Everyone complaining about the cleanliness of this place needs to calm down. You can't walk into a thrift store expecting it to be like a pristine vintage store. That's why everything is so dirt cheap! I go to the American Way once a week, usually on Saturday or Sunday mornings (when the have their discounts). Yes, sometimes it can be a bit messy, but I've never come across a clothing item that appeared to be filthy or unwearable. Their clothing prices are exactly what a thrift store should be. $.068 for a shirt, $1.99 for pants, $3.49 for a jacket. Just right.
I usually strike gold in their home department. I've found entire vintage glass wear sets here for 5 bucks, and numerous paintings, crochet table runners, and hand knit blankets. Also, take some time to look through their records. Usually they're awful, but I've found some treasures among the bad. Don't wanna give all the secrets away, but take a look behind the counter, that's where they keep their more antique items/things that are too delicate to put on the floor. I found a 1920s typewriter behind the counter in amazing condition for $45. -
Review from Shaun-Mathieu S.
North Hollywood, CA
Updated - 7/12/2011
Despite my last review, I came in here the other day looking for something to wear to a 1920s attired event downtown. I was quite skeptical, but gave American Way another chance. Their clothing selection has improved dramatically, both with better inventory and more streamlined organization. After searching around, I found a great green/gray jacket that was ideal for the party - and I'll wear it on other occasions, too. I also picked up a vintage pair of men's dress shoes in immaculate condition. They also now have mirrors placed periodically throughout the clothing sections, but sill no dressing rooms.
The cashier was friendly, and my total bill was impressively low. While I am still horrified at how they treat the books they sell here (see previous review), I have to say that American Way has redeemed itself a little. And I will now be coming in on a semi-regular basis .1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/24/2009
Have you ever wondered how some places stay in business? I hate , and I mean HATE, this place for… Read more »
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Review from Dyeanna V.
North Hollywood, CA
4/13/2011
I'm a little thrift junkie. I love thrift shopping. Never fails when I need me a cute little vintage outfit. I come here after a friend told me about it. She did mention that it was a bit messy. But I thought to myself 'Eghh! Probably just means that I'll just have to give myself some time to look around'. I park in the back and at this time, they were briging a big load of new stuff. I look inside, and at this point I'm already thinking about this one. Meh, I'm already here. What the heck! I open the door to go in................
I first get a wiff of straight levy's drenched in piss and left out to dry on it's own. Then as I'm walking closer to the racks, the smell gets even stronger. I'm trying to stick around as I'm minimizing the breaths I take in while I'm in here, when I find this shirt with straight vomit on the sleeve!! & this was a cute shirt!!
That's it! Does this mean I can bring my newborn nephews jeans to donate since he shit all over them and we don't want to touch it ? C'mon!Listed in: I love that skirt! Where did…
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Review from karen m.
Los Angeles, CA
6/6/2011
This place is ok. Just ok. I spent the afternoon here yesterday because 33 Rooms was closed. The benefits? SOOOOOOO CHEAP. I got 6 shirts for me and one for my boyfriend, a vase, leather heels, and a brand new travel bag all for... $25! They have 30% off on the weekends.
The downside: Crowded (both people-wise and shelves). No fitting room, so people crowd in a mirrored corner to pull clothes over whatever they are wearing (i'd recommend wearing a white tank and shorts if you're going to try this. Little organization. Sterile ambiance.
If you're an experienced thrifter, you can definitely win big. But you'll feel exhausted (and a little dirty) afterwards! -
Review from Hovik H.
Glendale, CA
7/15/2011
I always go here because something in my mind keeps telling me that I am one day going to find a true treasure here. But until then, I am disappointed that I always leave this store empty handed.
I am usually good at finding something I like at thrift shops but I haven't been lucky at this store...YET! And the smell...oh boy the smell! It's enough to make you run 10 miles in the other direction. But I do highly suggest girls to check this place out, they have a lot more stuff for women then men (in terms of accessories and clothing). Furniture, art, etc....so so, nothing mind-blowing but I have a feeling....one day....one...day. -
Review from suzie b.
North Hollywood, CA
12/26/2010
I don't do thrift shops....at all. I give props to people who can find cool stuff/ great bargains in one of these, which is so not my thing. Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever stepped foot in one before...and wasn't even planning on it, until last week. I was desperately searching for a fake christmas last minute, that was only needed for a few hours AND I was on a budget.
Someone suggested I check thrift shops....
Not really knowing of any, I searched and found a whole row of them in Burbank, called a few of these places and was getting nowhere.
This entire review is soley based on the gentleman I was transferred to when I asked the third place I called a few questions and the lady who picked up was annoying the hell out of me.
"I'll take care of you. Just come on in and ask for me....my names is Tony. I'll give you a great deal, don't you worry...."
I ended up being in there for a total of ten minutes as Tony unpacked and assembled about 3 trees for me to show me, (mind you, it was pretty damn busy in there) offered me a great price, walked it over to my car, and then refused to take any money from me when he found out it was for charity, after many attempts of me insisting.
The place seemed kinda scary and it was a mess, but Tony is a sweetheart and he WILL take care of you. -
Review from Jeane C.
Alhambra, CA
My friend introduced me to American Way and warned me multiple times that this place is filthy. (We even planned to bring surgical gloves, but we ended up forgetting them.)
This place was not as gross as I had imagined, and upon first glance, it was an intimidating maze of some pretty rank stuff. It doesn't smell like Salvation Army either; I can smell the original stench off of some of the clothing items.
But like most good things, with a bit of patience and effort, I managed to snag a few clothing items for $2 apiece! Usually, I can find similar clothing items at Salvation Army or Goodwill for triple the price.
If you want awesome finds for dirt cheap, prepare to roll up your sleeves and get a little dirty, otherwise, there are plenty of vintage and antique shops next door and down the block with prices at maximum value. -
Review from Sue F.
9/24/2011
I have been shopping at American Way since I was 15 years old. It is HUGE and has so much stuff to sift through. It is cheap, cheap, cheap. Best place to go to search for Halloween stuff before you decide to pay $50 at Halloween Town (i love you htown, but you know you're expensive!)
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Review from Lauren R.
Burbank, CA
9/28/2011
I like this place a lot. It's easy to get to, it's a pretty big store, and it usually has a pretty good selection. I usually buy clothes in here to alter (since they're very very cheap) or, if I find something in my size that isn't hideously paisley or floral, get a new piece for my wardrobe. The only problems with this store are that it gets crowded, there's no return policy, and you can't use a debit/credit card for purchases less than $10. The book selection is pretty decent, and I've found quite a few cool, creepy dolls for my collection here. Highly recommended.
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Review from Stephy S.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 8/3/2009
Yes, I said never again. And I meant it. But a few weekends ago, I was assisting in the thrifting for a friend's apartment decor and we were right near this place, so I gave in and entered the place I said I never would again after my moving nightmare where they said they would take all of my furniture only to show up and them say, no way. Lame.
Anyhoo. The reason I am actually taking the time to write anything about them again is because I discovered their vinyl section. Oh my goodness, so many gems in that pile of dusty crap. I found a John Davidson album!! For .99 cents! If you don't know who John Davidson is, well, yer dumb, or maybe just not old enough, but back in the 70's-80's he used to have a talk show and yours truly was on it. That's right, I was on it as a little youngin on a show about smert kids. Who knows what went wrong with my intelligence levels after that, but hey, when you're 7, that was the shit!
Anyhoo, if you are a record collector and looking for some off the wall stuff, check this place out. They honestly don't know what they have here.Listed in: Los Angeles Shopping, Hell No!, Los Angeles Donation Centers, Los Angeles Vinyl
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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4/6/2009
No mas.
This is a truly disappointing update to write. I have been a cheerleader for the American Way… Read more »
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Review from Tiffany K.
Sacramento, CA
5/31/2010
As far as thrift stores go, this is what I would kind of expect, but it doesn't have the charm of some and is pretty noisy. It is a little worn around the edges, but some good finds are to be found if you have the time and patience.
I did catch some other reviews about the smell and dust. Yes, I agree with you on the dust. Maybe because it's off of Magnolia Avenue? Man, that road is dusty! The smell, well, eh - anyplace you have used clothes, you tend to get 'the smell" along with it. That's been my experience.
We happened to be here on a 50% off day and the place was packed. I did score some nice pants for the kid, however. At $2 a pair (after the discount), you can't go wrong. So I did not find anything for me, but did find a lot for my friend. Kit B. She scored due to my uncanny sense of style and penchant for bargains with a nice polka dot silk blouse ($2) and a black skirt to match ($1.50).
I don't know what place this benefits, but apparently some organization benefits from it. The aisles are very narrow. I don't know why they allow shopping carts in this store, you can't have a shopping cart in the aisle and expect people to go around it.
There is no dressing room, just a corner with some mirrors. So leave your modesty at home, but wear your good underwear. It looked like a coed type of set up, but I could be wrong. With all the bumping in the aisles and public changing area, it could turn into an interesting afternoon. -
Review from Dylan C.
Burbank, CA
Updated - 4/13/2010 3 photos
I can't believe some of these reviews for this place. I image all you 'smell' plaintiffs were birthed out of fabrege eggs...that fell off ivory towers. Have you super-olfactory-sense-having folks ever set foot in a thrift store before? Apparently not because, for a thrift store, this place smells so good, Glade owns the copyright.
By far, one of the most important businesses in Burbank. A special, last-of-it's-kind type of place: a true thrift store! For the last 15 years, I have plucked some of the most amazing vintage (as well as modern) jeans, t-shirts, jackets and shoes from it's racks.
Always the first stop every time I visit home, like the Bob Seger song, this place is 'like a rock.'
-Reasonable pricing structure. More than reasonable - see Goodwill's flat $7.99 jeans pricing or $9.99 bottom price for blazers. Here and there you'll find a few WTF-priced items but I'm normally more than happy to pay their tag price.
-Good looking people shopping here. At least for the last few years now. There always seems to be a handful of cute women shopping the racks whenever I'm here, and being that it's in Burbank, a known geriatric community, this is a really good sign.
-Tag sales! A multi-tiered discount system allows American Way to always be offering a discount of some sort at any given time. Come back on Sunday, after spending $20 during the week and you get %50 off your purchase. This alone is worth a celebration.
-Actual vintage items in circulation. This is a big deal to me, as with the rise of ebay and realized collectible prices, many thrift stores are too aware of the potential collectibility of clothing, toys etc and have reflected this in their pricing. Many of these collectible bubble's have long since burst and the smart thrift stores have adapted to this by continuing to put these items on the racks instead of their "to japan" or "to ebay" bins in the processing room. American Way seems to still be throwing us the occasional gem.
-Great book selection. Unfortunately you will have to spend a little time perusing since they aren't organized in any way whatsoever, but again, that's part of the fun of thrift store shopping; it requires work.
Over the last 5 to 10 years, I've witnessed dozens of thrift stores close their doors. Even the (vastly inferior) chain thrift stores such as Goodwill and Salvation Army appear to be drying up across Los Angeles, even across the entire country. Unfortunately, It's not hard to imagine a day where places like this are only spoken of in memory, and personally, I'd love to be able to one day introduce my kids to the thrift store experience. This is just another important reason to continue to support American Way and other small/independent thrift stores like it.Listed in: 2012 In Burbank And Toluca…, Your Burbank Bucket List
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/11/2009
This place is my Burbank constant, this is my Desmond's Penny.
I have been shopping here since 1995.… Read more »
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Review from Kevin K.
Studio City, CA
11/25/2008
This place is a little bit of "WOW!" and a lot of "What the!?"
Earlier this year I got into collecting old board games. I started checking out American Way every so often, and I've scored a couple of cool finds, but mostly their games section is choked with old puzzles. At least they keep 'em off the floors so kids can't rummage through them. The problem is, they use copious amounts of masking tape to seal them up. Ugh.
Then there's the corner with the mirrors, where women go to try clothes on. It's not a dressing room, women just walk over there and drop trou so they can try stuff on. Sounds titillating, right? Not when you watch a 70 year old women struggle into a skirt. I'm blinded for life.
Still, you can find some treasures in here if you don't mind searching and dodging the half naked peeps. -
Review from Laura F.
Glendale, CA
1/29/2008
I either strike gold or end up coated in a layer of dated dirt at this place, but I usually strike gold so I'm upping it up to four stars. Last excursion to AW I got 30% off all my items.
Abercrombie and Fitch skirt - 4.95
Esprit skirt - 3.99
H&M skirt - 3.99
Brand new, unopened Loaded Questions board game - 3.99
Total spent was like 13-14 dollars.
I've also bought this bright orange, steel frame backpack that lasted backpacking trips to Europe and Japan. It was so ugly no one ever tried stealing it. Thank you American Way! -
Review from Marcus H.
Studio City, CA
7/12/2009
Forget Craigslist's "Casual Encounters," your favorite bar or wherever else you go for hookups. American Way should be your new go-to. The aisles are so narrow that you will penetrate someone or be penetrated by someone before you leave.
The main plus of American Way is that the clothes are organized by size, which is a rarity in thrift stores. Most thrift stores barely organize the clothes beyond which type of genitals they cover. But this place's powers that be seem to get it. When the clothes are organized by size, it's a huge time-saver if you're not in the great middle of the size scale. (I have the upper body of a toddler.)
The prices and the organization of the clothes almost make up for the close-quarters aisles (a minor-ish flaw), the lack of fitting rooms (a great evil) and the poor selection of clothes for men who don't do T-shirts, buffets or bench presses (a non-surprise). American Way is far from great, but it's worth checking out when you happen to be nearby. -
Review from Carmen L.
Burbank, CA
1/5/2011
I grew up in Burbank and this place has never done me wrong. The few times I've set out on a mission to find something specific, I've always found it in American Way. (That's a miracle when you're shopping thrift!)
Smells funny inside, and some stuff for sale looks like it's seen better days.... but it's a thrift store, so plug up your nose, bring your hand sanitizer and shut uppp. This place is great! -
Review from Jen V.
El Monte, CA
7/22/2008
This place reminds me of the old CHOC thrift store in El Monte that I frequented as a teenager. It's big & has a ton of clothes.
The good:
- 30% off on Saturdays and if you spend $20+ you get a coupon for 50% off clothing on Sundays.
- There's a plus sized section.
The bad:
- It closes early during the week (6p) and is usually picked over during the weekend.
- The book section is small & expensive (compared to other thrift stores).
- The *amazing* stuff is picked through by all of the vintage stores along the street.
The ugly:
- It's big & warehouse-y, which equates to dust & the uncontrollable urge to wash your hands when you walk out the doors.
I'm giving it 4 stars because this is what thrifting should be like - big warehouse-like stores with low prices. They've got a lot here - clothes, shoes, bags, lamps, small appliances, sometimes small furniture (although not too much large furniture), bric a brac, dishes, toys, frames, books, blankets & more.Listed in: Vintage? Quirky? Cheap? I'm…
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Review from Victoria T.
Burbank, CA
7/24/2011
I have been a flea-market denizen since I was 12 years old, which was decades ago, and this place defines a "thrift" store in the true sense. Items here average in the $2.99 -- $4.99 range. $20 goes a long way-- and shopping here does require Zennish patience and an empty bladder.
The line to the register can get long. It's noisy. Often, young moms are here shopping for REAL, so their kids run screaming through the racks.
Magnolia Blvd in Burbank is lined with dozens of cool, groovy re-sale, vintage hipster boutiques where the goods are sorted, curated, nicely displayed, and priced accordingly. This is not one of them.
American Way is a big, shabby, hot, stuffy, sorta sad, dimly lit warehouse PACKED to the gills with stuff, mostly clothing (but also all kinds of household stuff). The floor-team here wears disposable latex gloves (the kind worn in food-prep, or brain surgery???) as they slap hundreds of garments on hangers onto the racks every hour.
Presumably they wear these gloves to prevent the spread of infectious disease. I've considered doing the same when I shop here-- and maybe a nice surgical mask to match.
The sound system blares hellish, surreal, twilight, nightmare-music. The kind of Top 40 radio pop hits you have when you're on Day 3 of a really bad toothache, or the soundtrack you hear, either in RT or in your head, when you're lost in the rain in Juarez -- or stuck in an airport or someplace else you just don't want to be anymore (shades of "Locked Up Abroad").
STILL SO WORTH IT.
Hydrate well before entering. Bring a tape measure and know your sizes, since there is nowhere to try on clothes which require disrobing. There are mirrors at one end, where you can check your fine self out, but no dressing rooms.
There is no bathroom for you to use.
Two tips: Wednesday is Senior's Day. Yes, I qualify --- so does anyone who is 50 or older with ID. This means 50% off everything, or nearly everything. So, figure 50% off.....$2.99. You do the math, I'm old and I can't find my reading glasses.
And, re: the bathroom, just walk across the street to the Do It Yourself Center, walk ALLLL the way to the back of the store, and there is a huge bathroom for their customers. Buy a pack of sunflower seeds at the register, and you're a DIY customer.
Back to American Thrift. When you enter, scope the perimeter first. To the LEFT, glasses, dishes, china, household. Forget Ikea. Forget Pottery Barn. Forget Crate and Barrel. You can literally set an eclectic but jazzy table with groups of ceramic plates and real wineglasses for a few bucks here.
Press your way around the edge to the opposite wall-- the Junk Wall, I call it. Bins of stuff. Picture frames. Those plastic sorter-thingies than go into kitchen drawers and keep your knives and forks and spoons separated and orderly. Bundles of plastic hangers, sold in a neat package of 30? 40? for $1. The silver-plated tops off fancy old chafing dishes and serving trays. Candle-holders. Bookends. Serving trays. Baskets. Mixed array of debris, flotsam, jetsum.
Next comes a huge, chaotic whale-dump of ladies' purses, occasional hats, and scarves. Amazing finds here, if you have the attitude for it. I scored two great straw summer-bags here in perfect condition this spring.
Press on to the right wall, which is packed with books, some CDs and cassette tapes, and LPs on vinyl. Thousands. I've found unusual vintage books, including Greek (!) children's books for a Greek-speaking friend of mine. Again, if you're in a hurry, forget it. . There are usually an array of old Bibles here. Sometimes I am tempted to buy them (for, say $3.99) just for the sentimental and pious inscriptions written in fountain-pen in the opening pages, from 60, 70, 80 years ago. Kinda creepy-cool.
Since Border's is out of business, this may be one of the last book-shopping experiences of your life. Enjoy it!
In the center of all of this chaos are the clothes. Am-Thrift does make a heroic effort to keep it organized and sorted. It is a futile and Herculean task. For instance, ladies' tee shirts are sorted by color. Just take your time, and allow two full passes through the center aisles if you're serious.
Kids' toys and pairs of shoes line the tops of every aisle. They are not grouped by size or any other discernable system, but they are there. I can't tell you how many great pairs I've scored here. Many close to new. Yes, I do Windex and Lysol the interiors like I'm killing bubonic plague-- which I may be-- before wearing. So far, so good.
I've also scored amazing denims. Camos. Woolens. A long white velveteen coat. Cashmere and alpaca. Silk blouses. LBDs in several lengths, fits and fabrics, A suede fringed jacket a-la Dennis Hopper RIP for $5.99--immaculate buckskin suede. A-T's selection of black leather for ladies is especially astounding. You can usually score a killer biker- chick jacket here for under $20.
Y, se habla Espanol. -
Review from Bunny C.
Los Angeles, CA
1/22/2008
Whoever said this is one of the best must like some ugly shit! You know that saying somebody's trash is another's treasure?...well, here somebody's trash is still trash. Every time I have come it has been a disappointment. Lots of ugly 80's dresses that were ugly even back in the 80's, frumpy old lady dresses, worn out and faded second hand boring clothes. If you are looking for somebody's grandma's filthy, dimly lit, discarded walk-in closet, then you are in the right place.
I did see a skinny belt last time that I liked but it didn't have a price tag attached. We are talking about a plain black, non-leather, non-name- brand belt here. Almost all the belts were $1.99 and their items only have handwritten price tags, but when I asked a woman at the counter how much it was, her reply was "the lady who does the tags isn't here right now". I KNOW!....can you believe it?! Their shit ain't gold! So... seeing as I never like anything here, my boyfriend and I were pretty pissed they wouldn't sell me the belt. It was ridiculous! If it was an option, I would rate this place negative stars. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR GAS. -
Review from Rebecca G.
Van Nuys, CA
2/10/2009
Ok..I would of given 5 stars but ...some of there stuff not much is over priced the stuff is given to them and another thing when they get a item donated to them with the price tag still on it they sell it for a higher price stating on the tag "new item" If i did not buy the item in the original store then the item is not new...
The over all pricing is very reasonable unlike the Salvation Army which I will not step foot in any longer love going on Sunday and using my %50 off coupon. I get clothes from Banana republic,Joe's jeans, AF,American Eagle and usually pay about 2 bucks a piece usually less.
I have never noticed any odor which other posters complained about but that just me.
I do wish mothers would keep there kids in tow and not let them run hog wild in the store many time I have been ran into by unruly children.
I really like American Way Thrift store..I have been shopping there many years and will do so for many more to come -
Review from Orsolya D.
North Hollywood, CA
1/7/2010 3 Check-ins Here
American Way should perhaps re-think their business model and re-open as a vintage store versus a thrift store. Don't get me wrong, American Way fits the ideal mold of a thrift store in regards to the grimy floors, over-use of fluorescent light bulbs, and items that look like they couldn't even be sold at your neighbor's garage sale. BUT, there are some amazing vintage pieces mixed into the aisles. I found several vintage shirts, dresses, and an amazing red leather coat which looked like a female version of Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' jacket. Moreover, the prices are under $4 and there are always certain color tags 50% off and days where all merchandise is 50% off. You know the thrift store drill...
The store is slightly unorganized with the shoes being thrown above the clothing racks and it appears that they are barely delineated between whether they are men's or women's shoes. The furniture was also shabbily discarded. So much so, that it is difficult looking at the "department" due to the "pile of furniture" appearance. I also couldn't even find a jewelry section...not sure if it exists.
Despite the organization and cleanliness issues, you can find some great pieces at low, low, prices. There are also great items for teens; as it appears that the closet of the near-by high school spit up in the aisles. I also wish it was open later. What about people that work until 6pm?!
Highly suggested for the REAL Thrifters that like to search for their goodies and for the Vintage Buff who knows vintage enough to recognize it on the shelves amongst the other hand-me-downs.
I should have gotten that red Michael Jackson jacket...Listed in: Vintage Shopping in the Valley
-
Review from J C.
Los Angeles, CA
10/21/2008
After striking out at Junk for Joy on Sunday, I decided to stop by here on my lunch hour today.
I am SO glad I did. In about 1/2 an hour, I found 3 potential Halloween costumes for myself, 1 for the kid, and a skirt. All for under 40 bucks! One of the items was a full length, green sequined gown for $20, that I couldn't pass up. Even without being able to try it on, I figured if it didn't fit, I could give it to one of my skinnier friends.
I would like to be there to see if anybody can get the older cashier lady to smile, don't think it's possible. I tried to help her put my clothes in the bag, and she shot me a dirty look..I was just trying to help! -
Review from H C.
Los Angeles, CA
10/5/2008
Enjoyed my experience at this thrift store. Lots of stuff to pick over. Yeah it has the usual thrift-store musty smell going on, but that's just part of the charm.
EDIT: Went on Tuesday morning and got the early bird discount of 50% off all clothing. I purchased three skirts, a "grandpa robe" (as my husband called it... but hey its super cozy so who cares), a vintage dress, and a gravy bowl for just over ten bucks total. Nice! -
Review from Alyson W.
Wheat Ridge, CO
5/12/2007
This review is based on only one trip to this thrift store. In my experience, the only way to score big while thrift shopping is to visit again and again. You also need to be patient, take your time and look through everything.
I was hoping to find some t-shirts here to re-construct. I only found two, so I was very disappointed. I did score big on two board games, both of which had all their pieces! I also brought home some books and cookbooks.
So for now, this store gets 3 stars because I was pleased, but I had hopes for so much more. I am sure that subsequent trips will result in a higher rating. -
Review from Michaela A.
Burbank, CA
4/8/2010
What I think abut this store is, it depends on what you need to buy them for.
I'm a filmmaker and I come here everytime I need to buy for some art props, which is cheap and satisfying enough for me.
But for the stuff that you would use it for yourself, I dont think it's gonna be convenient enough for you.
It's really dirty, the service is really bad, it's smelly, and I sneezed few times when I went there.
It depends on what u're looking for I guess, sometimes it could be reliable and sometimes it's not.
But definitely, for used underwear, shoes, socks, and things that will touch your skin directly, I would say A BIG NO..because u never know what happened before with those things. -
Review from Elizabeth L.
Burbank, CA
1/7/2009
When you first enter, you will notice the floors & entry are a little skeevey.
There might even be a bit of an odor.
Don't get scared-
Just plunge right into their massive selection of used stuff.
A lifelong thrift store junkie, this place is so much fun.
Dig through countless racks for outfits to put together for CHEAP!
If you spend over $20, they stamp you a coupon for any sunday 50% off all clothing.
You leave with filled bags. Jeans, shirts, jackets, purses, & shoes. Where else can you do that?
The Goodwill? hell no.
Also, feel free to walk right behind the check out counter where they keep the higher end items. Found a pair of black Charles David, high heeled leather boots, sexy as hell, in great shape, in my size- $25 at 30% discount! -
Review from GEORGE C.
Los Angeles, CA
5/10/2009
This place is kind of blaaa.
The prices on clothes is cheap, the prices on electronics is priced very ignorant. They priced some old crap HP Pentium 2 for $130.
They do have some good Camera lenses, but they jack up the price on them, but they are still a tad cheaper than a new one. Alot of the good stuff is behind the counter which is such a hassle for them to show you. They do get some vintage furniture which is priced good because they don't know a thing about period pieces. They do get a lot of vintage cameras as well if your a collector. I also agree a lot of the merchandise is battered by the employee's, and they all look like they are miserable.
On the bright side, the store is quite big. I still go there once every month, you never know what you might find. -
Review from Melody N.
Baton Rouge, LA
11/2/2007
Well, yelp, you let me down for once. Based on the reviews, I was expecting a thrift store out of the ordinary. Something with better selection. I don't generally go to thrift stores because I have a hard time finding things that aren't from the 80's. But every once in a while I'll stop into one and see one or two things i like.
This thrift store was exactly like every other thrift store I've ever been to but worse. YES, worse! It's bigger than most, so you have a big selection of crap. If you like clothes that look like something you could have bought at K-mart in the 80's and 90's, then this is the store for you. If you like pants that go up to your armpits, this is the store for you. I looked through ALL of the pants, and found one that I liked. I kept browsing through shirts, jackets, belts, etc. and found nothing. Everything was very old, ugly, and plain. The kitchenware on the back shelves looked like it was thrown up there and if you touched anything it would all fall down.
So, when I finally gave up on looking and decided to try on this one pair of pants, I realized they DON'T HAVE A FITTING ROOM!? I've never been to a thrift store without one. I've even seen some thrift stores with a curtain thrown up to change behind, but at least that's something. And there's absolutely no exchanges or returns. So, if i bought this pair of pants for $8 and it didn't fit, I might as well flush my money down the toilet.
Maybe you'd like this store if you're a dirty old man, because some girl was trying on pants in the back of the aisles while her friend tried to block her (didn't work.) This probably happens frequently. So if you don't mind changing in public in order to avoid wasting your money on bad clothes, you might not mind this place so much.
American Way Thrift store- mediocre thrift store with no dressing room and bad selection.
