Housing Works Thrift Shops - Chelsea

Very overpriced for a thrift store. They priced a j crew blouse at $45. Really? BUT it does seem that local stores/businesses donate their overstock here, so you can find good deals that way. They also seem to have a good selection of books. They also have fitting rooms, which a lot of thrift stores don’t have these days. Wheelchair accessible but the aisles can get tight and it would be difficult to navigate on a crowded day.

I make it a point to visit this location every single time I travel to NYC. Such a warm & welcoming staff, and of course great vintage finds! Love from Toronto!

You have to dig a bit but for every overpriced 3-7 items there’s a gem. Gotta be patient - very organized and friendly staff. Found a good condition bag for a great deal.

Housing works Chelsea on West 17th street is one of my favorite housing works to visit. Typically always have wonderful deals on items you may need for furnishing home from couches, tables, chairs, rugs, lamps. You name it they probably have it. They have three movers they recommend making it easy to get your purchase delivered for extremely fair price with an accredited and insured moving company. Staff and workers are all very friendly and there to help. Can’t recommend enough!

Donations. Make alternate plans for donating large items I don’t think this necessarily pertains to this thrift store. It’s regarding furniture donations. I started arranging a donation of almost new sofa sleeper and new upholstered bar stools on June 25. Their website gives you a choice of dates. I said July 8 was the latest pickup I could do . They came back a few times wanting more photos and decided on July 5 that they want it. But told me they couldn’t come before July 30. So now I’m scrambling to find some alternate arrangement last minute and it’s just unnecessary. At the last minute they put it 3 weeks off. They could have just put the information on their website that potential pickups are weeks out. So if you’re donating like new furniture, don’t assume they will take it, even if they say they will. You might be sitting on it last minute with no other options than the curb. Talk to other charities as well

I've checked out a LOT of thrift shops but Housing Works takes the cake. They supply their stores with only hand picked chosen stuff from locally donated goods. Their employees are kind & friendly & the store is clean & well organized. YES to Housing Works & their good cause! (HIV).

Well curated thrift shop with amazing finds. Quite a few clothing companies or designers donate their stuff here, so always good finds guaranteed. Lots of never been worn items.

everyone has used stuff and Housing Works Thrift Store takes used stuff and sells it. some people like buying used stuff and Housing Works sells used stuff for $. one of the larger locations of HW. donating is super easy. just drop off stuff that in good shape—check the website for what they’ll take. there are racks of men’s and women’s clothes in this store. there’s a decent sized books, cds, etc. in the corner in the back. there is some decor and furniture as well. well and cleanly maintained like other locations. busy location. helpful staff. donate—you’re doing a good deed

Very overpriced for a thrift store. They priced a j crew blouse at $45. Really? BUT it does seem that local stores/businesses donate their overstock here, so you can find good deals that way. They also seem to have a good selection of books. They also have fitting rooms, which a lot of thrift stores don’t have these days. Wheelchair accessible but the aisles can get tight and it would be difficult to navigate on a crowded day.

I make it a point to visit this location every single time I travel to NYC. Such a warm & welcoming staff, and of course great vintage finds! Love from Toronto!

You have to dig a bit but for every overpriced 3-7 items there’s a gem. Gotta be patient - very organized and friendly staff. Found a good condition bag for a great deal.

Housing works Chelsea on West 17th street is one of my favorite housing works to visit. Typically always have wonderful deals on items you may need for furnishing home from couches, tables, chairs, rugs, lamps. You name it they probably have it. They have three movers they recommend making it easy to get your purchase delivered for extremely fair price with an accredited and insured moving company. Staff and workers are all very friendly and there to help. Can’t recommend enough!

Donations. Make alternate plans for donating large items I don’t think this necessarily pertains to this thrift store. It’s regarding furniture donations. I started arranging a donation of almost new sofa sleeper and new upholstered bar stools on June 25. Their website gives you a choice of dates. I said July 8 was the latest pickup I could do . They came back a few times wanting more photos and decided on July 5 that they want it. But told me they couldn’t come before July 30. So now I’m scrambling to find some alternate arrangement last minute and it’s just unnecessary. At the last minute they put it 3 weeks off. They could have just put the information on their website that potential pickups are weeks out. So if you’re donating like new furniture, don’t assume they will take it, even if they say they will. You might be sitting on it last minute with no other options than the curb. Talk to other charities as well

I've checked out a LOT of thrift shops but Housing Works takes the cake. They supply their stores with only hand picked chosen stuff from locally donated goods. Their employees are kind & friendly & the store is clean & well organized. YES to Housing Works & their good cause! (HIV).

Well curated thrift shop with amazing finds. Quite a few clothing companies or designers donate their stuff here, so always good finds guaranteed. Lots of never been worn items.

everyone has used stuff and Housing Works Thrift Store takes used stuff and sells it. some people like buying used stuff and Housing Works sells used stuff for $. one of the larger locations of HW. donating is super easy. just drop off stuff that in good shape—check the website for what they’ll take. there are racks of men’s and women’s clothes in this store. there’s a decent sized books, cds, etc. in the corner in the back. there is some decor and furniture as well. well and cleanly maintained like other locations. busy location. helpful staff. donate—you’re doing a good deed

Furniture donations must be pre screened before they are accepted. The process involves taking a photo of the item, sending it to the store and waiting for a response. Wish I knew about this ahead of time. Fortunately my dropoff was approved. I donated a cute drawer set about ten years ago and didn't have this problem.

Don't even bother. I've been in here numerous times and this time convinced me there is never any reason to come back. Most thrift shops have SOME system of organizing, whether by color or size...or something. You are lucky to find shirts corralled together, let alone sorted by any other feature. Clothes so jammed together on the rack that it's impossible to find the size. Clothes that I would swear I saw two years ago. Ugly clothes. Stained clothes. And no employee in sight to let you into the tiny fitting room. And the prices suck too! Maybe other locations are better?

Come here every other week. Always new stuff. Their events are particularly great - because this is a shop for charity, they get great tags-on donations.

A larger version of the Gramercy/Kips Bay location, with plenty to choose from. There's furniture, records, books, jewelry, accessories, shoes, outerwear and more. Can be a little overwhelming, as this place draws a great crowd. The staff is friendly and super helpful, which is always a plus. __ IG: @DCthriftish I #thrift and I know things. #DCthriftish #DCgarb #DCpoptags #DCfashion

The workers here are very kind, and the store is always neat and tidy. Housing works can be a little overpriced but so can every other thrift store in nyc.

Love this place -- it is a space of welcoming, healing and comforting energy for so many of us, especially during this challenging pandemic. What would NYC be without Housing Works? It wouldn't be the same, that's for sure! ~ What my wife and I love most about it is their staff...their staff members are all friendly and kind. We really enjoy going to HW, particularly HW, Chelsea! Many thanks for your outstanding service...With Peace, Love & Gratitude, Katherine & Goldalee

There are so many reasons why I love this place but I'm going to stop it with that the theatrics get right to the point. This place is located and a very popular part of New York City. Brilliant brilliant concept! The employees are very personable, kind and helpful, the variety of items are off the chain! I felt like I was in a cross between a Nordstrom's and Sears. Meaning, they have something for everyone. They have new, vintage and gently used items. They have a library, audio selection, clothing, shoes, jewelry, tableware and art! I found every aspect of this place wonderful! And most importantly the money earned is donated to go towards AIDS research and homelessness! That's what I'm talking about and kudos to them! If you don't take a stand for something you will fall for anything! I cannot wait until I'm in New York again for what ever reason to go back and visit these folks! And did I mention my great buys than I bought! I feel great knowing that I made a few purchases that increased funding towards a meaningful cause!

Of all the Housing Works in all the city - this one on 17th St might be my favorite. The store is a little chaotic with alllllll the stuff inside but its a controlled chaos. For a second hand store it doesn't feel that way. The store almost feels curated. Clothing over here, furniture here and here, knick/knacks and other assorted home goods in the back. There's a lot to see at this location and they do a nice job laying it all out. Whether you're looking for something specific or just wandering - this location is a good one to visit.

Every Housing Works is determined by the neighborhood, and this one is totally Chelsea: vibrant, colorful, eclectic, shameless. Love the furniture, lighting, designer heels and knickknacks at this. Definitely sells the highest-quality furniture of all the Housing Works, and it's right in the furniture Mecca of NYC. 5 Stars!!!!!

The ABSOLUTE WORST $195 for a broken wooden stool that lists on Wayfair for $58.00, are they for serious? They act like they're working there for free. Who knew they actually get paid to be rude and nasty. The IRS has nicer staff, and probably less expensive!

Of all the thrift stores, I feel like Housing Works has the best, most high end merchandise such as Gucci, D&G, DVF and Loubotin. The items at this physical location and this location's auction are quality and of the ultra high end ilk. But they also offer fun, close to free merchandise such as elastic rhinestone bracelets for $1 and Nine West pre-owed shoes for $5. It's fun! Wear it once who cares. The employees that work here though... They make me have to keep repeating to myself that this is for charity. Damn, Gina. Why is every day a hard day for you? I'll keep shopping here though. You'll get it right one day.

Some of my observations that are location-specific: CHELSEA (143 W 17th St) -tennis and squash rackets seem to find their way here -armoires, fancy dining tables/chair sets, and armchairs -very organized (clothes on the left, furniture in the center and back) -decent selection of books and framed art (in the back) --- Gramercy (157 E 23rd St) -this lighting here is dark -different types of furniture and clothes scattered throughout store -many people loiter here -I enjoyed this location the least -- it feels stressful Hell's Kitchen (730 9th Ave) * haven't visited yet * Lennox Hill (1222 2nd Ave) -curated, very organized selection of clothes -housewares look like they came from older folks -great shoe selection that tends toward the unworn side Park Slope (266 5th Ave) -this location has a nicer selection of furniture -clothing stock is... what people would wear when they no longer give a **** -great selection of newish books -lots of people seem to enjoy browsing their huge collection of records Soho (130 Crosby St) -location is more focused on clothes -furniture is sparse and tends to look very worn -lots of hats -quite a fair amount of new clothes from stores that no longer exist (similar in style to marine layer) -next door to the housing works bookstore and cafe! Tribeca (119 Chambers St) * haven't visited yet * Upper East Side 1 (202 E 77th St) -this location has a lot of dining chairs -other furniture reminds me of basements in middle america -mish mash of clothes for the working professional who doesn't care too much about brands -many people loiter here Upper East Side 2 (1200 Lexington Ave) -newest location! -visually, it looks like the smallest one, maybe even smaller than the one on E 90th & 2nd Ave -well curated just like the Lennox Hill store (E 64th & 2nd Ave.), but seems to have quite a few formal gowns and nice shoes Upper West Side 1 (306 Columbus Ave) -more extensive selection of furniture and housewares -clothing sections seemed more curated than other stories Upper West Side 2 (2569 Broadway) * haven't visited yet * West Village (245 W 10th St) -has a musky old bookstore smell -jeans. lots and lots of jeans. -styles of clothes lean toward cool vintage college kid and middle-age professor stereotypes -gradautes might want to check out some entry level business casual clothes Yorkville (1730 2nd Ave) * haven't visited yet *

I live nearby and have been shopping here for about 5 years, but the pricing in the men's clothing has gotten ridiculous in the past few months. There's no way I'm paying $120 for a pair of pants at a thrift store with no return policy. The nicer stuff used to be about $45, now it's $55 and up, up, up. Or some J crew/Banana republic you can find at Goodwill all day long for $9 will be $25 here. It's a shame because they definitely have cornered the market on the nicer end of clothing donations in the city, and I used to spend about $500 a year here. Now all I buy is the occasional book. And the same clothes sit on the rack week after week after week after week...and instead of dropping the price a bit on stuff that doesn't sell, they shuffle it to a different rack like we can't tell it's the same sample sale leftovers we've already seen and decided that, while nice, are just a bit too pricey.

This has been my favorite Housing Works location for years. Pretty much every time I go in I find a book in good condition for less than $10 (even hardcovers!), and their housewares are always stocked. I just bought some wine glasses that were in near-perfect condition that will be perfect replacements for ones I recently broke at home! Staff is friendly and they absolutely adhere to COVID-19 precautions that need to be taken for the store. I typically like their clothing selection too, so if you're looking for a good dig, the Chelsea location should be stop #1.

Uh uh. Got to get better organized here. Why is it that this place is the only place that makes you check your bags. Are people really ripping off that much stuff that makes this warranted? Rethink that or police it differently. Also, we need a more organized method for check out. No fewer than 6 people behind the counter, but no one seemed to be taking any customers to pay. Before I stand in an unorganized line to buy a $2 CD, I need ensure efficiency during the checkout process. I found the experience more stressful than enjoyable.

The most organized HW location I've visited. Good selection here, but you have to be a smart shopper because some items are fantastic deals while others are definitely overpriced. I spotted a pair of gently worn LK Bennett nude heels for $55--would've bought if they weren't a size too big--and was able to snag a pair of like-new Current/Elliot jeans for $25. At the same time, you'll easily find J. Crew and Adidas tops priced at $35. So know what's really worth your dollar. I liked the book selection a lot, there were something here for everyone, whether you're a history buff or like YA fiction. Homeware was okay, of the same variety as the other HWs, and same goes for the furniture. Just a lot of variety overall and probably the best of all HW locations I've shopped in.

Oh, Housing Works. There is a very homey feel to this store, and on weekends it's often packed with shoppers. There's a ton of clothes and shoes in here, along with furniture, books, and odds and end for the house. For furniture, I saw that you must pick up your item within two days of purchase. Sometimes, when it comes to women's clothing at least, I think this store's items is priced a little high for what they are...I kind of hesitate to call the store's normal prices "thrift" prices (when I think real thrift prices, I think $10-$15 and under). The quality of the clothes varies from rags to new with tags, so you definitely have to do some digging. I do see some name brands in the clothing section, like a pair of Theory pants, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Citizens of Humanity. I frown when I see items priced at or above $30, and there were quite a few items in that price range, which is beyond me, because a lot of those were higher end mall brands. You could probably find similar finds at a Goodwill for like $8 or so. I've noticed that they do have a lot of high-end designer labels here - saw some Tracy Reese, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Alberta Ferretti, etc. But don't expect these to have "thrift" store prices either - the minimum price I saw for these items (suit jackets, skirts, etc) was around $50. I actually just picked up a New with Tags Alexander Wang cropped blazer for $140 - this doesn't fit my definition of Goodwill Thrift by any means, but I don't often stumble upon NWT designer items like this! However, I have also come here on a day where women's clothes were 40% off, and all shoes were 75% off (!) so I managed to score a pair of black heels from VanEli for $5 (!), original price was $20 at the store. I came back another day and they were doing a special: all jeans and pants for $5, original price $30. With some digging, I found a pretty good pair of 7 For All Mankind black skinny jeans for $5. Not too shabby right? In conclusion, if you are coming here for Goodwill-thrift prices women's clothes, be prepared not to find too many items under $15 unless some special is going on. Try coming here when they're doing sectional sales, and I think the prices will be a lot closer to the "thrift" store prices that you and I all hope for in Manhattan.

I love Housing Works!! A thrift store that helps people get off the street and provides job training, medical care to HIV patients, and cheap fashions & housewares to everyone. The way this store is set up it looks as if you could be walking into a designer shop - the displays are so eclectic and well put together, like Anthropolgie or something. I could see some downtown shops looking here for odds and ends to decorate a window like old shoe horns, rocking horses, straw hats, croquet mallets, vintage chairs, gaudy gold picture frames, tiny mirrors. My favorite finds have included: Citizen of Humanity jeans for $7, dozens of cute dresses for under $10, Dooney & Bourke change purse $3. My roommates both shop there too and have come home with the cutest shoes, ties, shorts, dresses, a sweet vintage jacket. If you want to donate items the store will reimburse your cab ride (so you don't have to carry tons of stuff on the subway) with a certificate for in-store credit - I think it's up to $15. There are always cool events going on at the store too - DJ's spinning records from the store, color coordinated/themed displays & employees, design benefits, big sales, free kegs from time to time, fashion shows featuring clothing from the store. Employees and volunteers are helpful and fun. Good fashions, good house stuff, good people, go crazy with your credit card for a great cause.

I heard some good things about the store so I figured I'd give it a try. I came in and was sadly surprised. They had decent items but was very overpriced. When I came to find out that most or all of the items are donated the prices are extreme. Better to check eBay before you decide purchasing from this store. Best of luck.

Items are severely overpriced. Old pair of shoes seriously worn out and clunky shoes but has a leather strap: $75. Stained and faded bean bag: $60. Scratched up table from Ikea: $150. Seriously? I find better stuff on the street on garbage night. Whole point of thrift is the deal. And God forbid if it's actually good condition or designer, it's locked away for bidding. This was frustrating. While I support this cause, the items actually have to be at a discount if they are used and worn!

I don't think I can give a proper review of this shop. My sister and I were in the neighborhood and it was rather late in the day when we strolled into Housing Works. On this particular day they were having a big 70% off sale and the place looked ransacked. There was hardly anything in the place and is was filled with people trying to buy every last crappy item left. I'm sure if we had come the next day, first thing in the morning, I'd be singing a different tune because they probably brought in a whole new store-ful of inventory to sell. I think we just caught them on a bad day at a bad time. If I get the chance to return on a another shopping day and I find things are for the better, I'll definitely update my review.

I love the housing works shops! If you take your time your nearly sure to dig up a good find! Don't forget to check out their website too for their auctions! (http://www.housingworksauctions.com/) A great cause and great shopping! What more could you ask for? This location has hosted the Fashion for Action benefit the past few years...check the website. It should be coming up this month.

I bought from them many times before, not just this particular one in Chelsea, but also their STORES in Hell's Kitchen, E Houston and Gramercy 'I wouldn't call them thrift shops'. Prices were very good a couple of years ago when people didn't know much about them, but have skyrocketed since. I've literally seen Brooks Brothers garment from their Black Fleece collection listed at $239 a sweater and $145 a shirt. When I asked their Sales person if those prices were real, her answer was: Aww we had a Fashion event and our inventory was priced accordingly. Come back in 2 weeks and you can get them at a reduced price. My remarks are as follows: 1- Designers FINDS designer FINDS designer FINDS that all girls seem to be hypnotized with, at least those who submitted their positive reviews here on Yelp. Ladies, the 'good' Designer finds are now being cherry picked by HW management and auctioned LIVE on their website, so give me a break. A normal auction would extend up to 10 days so they could attract as many potential bidders as possible and inflate the price. Remember, most bidders here are locals who can afford a $3,000 Studio rent, and they're "so EXCITeeeeeeeD" under the hypnotizing illusion of a "thrift shop" auction, thinking that paying $420 for a mid century chair is a bargain. You might as well bid on eBay and get a better service, FREE shipping 'most of the time' plus a 14 day Return policy, not to mention Buyer protection for up to 60 Days. 2- Their online auctions have a serious countdown problem. I was called out many times and Auctions ended 3 or 4 minutes before their due time which is usually set at 10.00 pm. I had reported the problem twice to their Customer Support but my complaints were totally ignored. It's a million dollar industry now. The "If you don't like it, go find another thrift shop" Business Model will usually prevail in such environment. It feels like a different kind of business as someone here pointed, where tax deductible charity is becoming a lucrative and slightly elitist business. "Do you want designer stuff used and donated by the rich? You better have some bucks or go thrift elsewhere." 3- NO returns accepted whatsoever.

HWTS is an under-rated organization and store chain. All monetary proceeds from in-store/auction sales and donations support a great cause--a huge win-win for me. I've been shopping and donating items to HWTS for years and plan to do so for many more. Keep up the great work!

There are no reviews for Housing Works at this address in 2020 so I imagine they may have somehow eliminated them?! Dunno. The place has changed so much. For the worse. Meanwhile, I've been an avid supporter to this organization since it opened 30 years ago. I donated many items. I bought so many more. Sadly the standard has totally disintegrated: Many of the items for sale have not been handled properly and with care and respect Beautiful pieces of china and glass, antique lamps for sale are chipped and broken. I donated a lot of stuff recently at the Columbus Ave. branch and the way the inexperienced staff handle items so roughly is appalling. No respect, no understanding for antiques? Items are priced illogically. The staff at 17th st. are rude and loud.. Yelling at each other across the room. Abrupt and abrasive way of talking to customers. Really, really tragic. The whole place has turned from being fabulous and with wonderful and friendly employees.... to beyond terrible. Original staff mostly all gone. A nightmare to visit. Equally terrible at the branch on Columbus and 74th. They allow a very few people into the store and the rest are waiting for-ever on the sidewalk in the event someone occasionally notices them and allows them to enter. Pathetic. What happened. ?? Bunch of crooks running the place now since the original company was merged. They'll be out of business before long sadly.

I wish i could rate it after travelling an hour and half to get here they were unexpectedly closed..

Ok. I went to donate some clothes... I had to itemize each item and then loaded on to a bin... service was polite enough... thanks

I arranged to donate a beautiful dining room table and chairs as well as a custom love seat and sofa to this Housingworks. The furniture is all in great condition with sizes and photos sent to them long before scheduling a donation. We were told the only reasons a driver would turn away pieces was because of wear&tear, stains, fading...(this furniture is in great condition., so no problem) YET the drivers declined to take the dining room set because it was deemed too big to fit in their truck-after all they had 8 pick ups before me. As I said before, they were well aware in advance, based on measurements and photos that I sent, of the size of this set. But late this afternoon, it's suddenly too big!!!!! Since they knew the size in advance, they should have picked it up first or on a different day. This just makes them seem lazy! Then our custom sofa and love seat were turned away for potential dog hair before I could explain that the sofas have been covered with couch-covers day to day for their entire lifetime because of the dogs, which BTW are actually non-shedding doodles so dog hair is not an issue. Just look at the furniture before getting all judgey! Again, it just make them seem lazy. It was as though they were looking for any reason not to take our sizeable furniture this late in the afternoon. Again, I was told the only reason that the driver would turn away furniture was because of quality/wear&tear, (which were non-issues for these pieces). We were not told that perceived size or presumed pet exposure would be problematic. So i am disgusted and left with furniture to throw away rather than donate to a deserving community all because the rude, presumptuous, lazy drivers didn't want to carry this sizable furniture to their truck and unload it at a store. Shame on them!!

This is the first time I've ever been thrifting around NYC and this was the first place I strolled into. I almost missed it if it wasn't for a truck unloading donations! The place is a good size, housing small furniture as well. The trends are more sophisticated and more antique; definitely not for your contemporary shopper. They have a small selection of shirts, dresses, pants, jackets, fur coats, coats, and shoes. They also have large dressing rooms. The staff are incredibly nice and personable. To me, some items were priced more than I would assume thrift material to be priced, but sometimes for good reason: Armani $$$, Gucci $$$, brands I've never heard of but are clearly made of real material. The place didn't smell like old clothes, very organized, and it wasn't dirty... which is a relief compared to Goodwill or Salvation Army. I found a black, modern business jacket for $15!

Their online auction is a complete SCAM .. They are Shill bidding almost Every item .. They must think this is not a crime as they are a non for profit , but this IS Criminal Behavior and they will be exposed .. I was just offer second chance offers the same day/July 7,2018 on 3 items from the same location , Chelsea , and from 3 different buyers.. Coincidence ? , Not a chance ..I have received 5 second chance offers from this location alone since January and over 10 combined from all locations . And on they expect me to pay the price with All the shill bids in..Take the Fake bidder out and each item would be 30% less ..

Everything seems fine and dandy here. Thrift shop with an altruistic purpose. But I had a terrible experience and feel like Housing Works cheated me out of my money. I bought a sofa bed that was on sale from here and they gave me up to 3 days to pick it up. Little did I know that it was a spring-loaded sofa bed. That means that if you try to lift up the couch at an angle, the sofa bed will spring out. I borrowed my parent's car and got a good friend to help me out. Well, it turns out spring-loaded couch is like, 60 lbs. We literally couldn't get it out of the store and almost injured a woman because it kept springing out. I asked for at least an exchange, and they refused to allow me an exchange. They said I could call a moving company and would keep it for one more day for me. I work 2 jobs and took that day off to move that couch and can't afford to pay movers to move a couch. That's why I bought the couch on sale in the first place. At the end of the day, I just think of it as a donation to Housing Works. But I will never shop their again because of the customer service. I don't know anything about furniture and was really disappointed that they wouldn't even let me exchange it for a smaller couch of lesser value. I ended up leaving the couch there. Thanks for forcing me to "donate" my money.

OMG I happened to go this past Sunday as they were preparing for their big event. In order to get ready for their big event they were selling everything for $1!!! Granted the store was pretty much empty compared to how it normally is, but I was luck enough to still find some goodies! I got 12 items for $12. I got my step-dad 3 suit jackets (blazers), and I got one for my brother as well. They were Nautica, Brooks Brothers, and Jos A Bank brands. I also snagged a couple blazers for myself, and some pants for work. I still can't believe I got everything for $1. Tip: The word is every time this location has an event they clear out the store prior to, and severely slash prices. By the weekend before the event everything gets cut down to $1. I so need to know when they're having their next event! =]

It is inevitable that once I start a "give-away" box for clothes, it becomes an overflowing mess far more quickly than I care to admit (maybe because of all the clothes I keep buying..but let's leave that alone for now). Therefore my quatrennial (it tends to go with the seasons) trip to Housing Works to donate said box is always a time of great catharsis. Quick and simple drop-off procedures, friendly staff, and tax deductibility only add to the already wonderful experience of unloading old clothes for a good cause. On the flip side, I am not a thrift store person. With the notable exception of Ina, I tend to only buy things that are shiny and new (emphasis on the shiny). But Housing Works is clean and organized with clever displays and a great selection. And all proceeds go to help people in NYC living with HIV/AIDS. Stop in and you won't be disappointed.

Great little shop with good deals! The place has a lot of character, is organized and clean. I got a United Colors of Benneton blazer for $20, it fit me perfectly. They also have cool furniture, paintings, etc. but unfortunately I do not have a stable place to furnish :(

The secret got out five years ago about Housing Works, and though it has drifted into endless heaps of bulky entertainment units, Banana Republic high-waisted khakis and useless bric-a-brac, (spelling on that?), It's still the most awesome and always worth the visit thrift store in the city, hands down. I prefer the 17th street location for variety, but 10th street has some more designer labels if you're looking for that. Where else can you donate items that you eventually might re-purchase and donate again? (I think I did that with a shirt once...I was very drawn to it for some reason when I re-bought it). What have I gotten over the many years? An 8-drawer solid wood danish modern replica dresser for $100, delivered in 2 hours for and extra $80. A Lufthansa Airlines polo shirt that feels like I'm part of the crew. A perfectly sized bookshelf, APC jeans for $5, A set of hand painted dishes (from their auction) from a friend of mine who stopped making ceramics years ago, a Marc Jacobs shirt for $10, a noise machine for $11 (though noise is generally free in my apartment, it seems that a tiny bit of extra noise actually reduces noise...go figure). The list goes on and will continue thanks to Housing Works endless supply and reasonably good taste. One of the only drawbacks is the crazy bargain-obsessed rude people that sift through the racks with no concern for the person at the other end as they shove, push and snatch 30 items at a time. RELAX people! When your unemployed, or "employment challenged", go everyday and often to see what's there :)

Dropped in there FINALLY today. I've been to a couple of other locations but not this one. If you are looking for home goods, furnishings and art, WOW. PERFECT. I came here to find something to help organize my sewing area. I found a really great little fabric desk organizer with a cute spot to slide in a label for $6. Perfect. I also may have bought a pair of Diesel jeans for $25... ok not what I went in for but hey! Some of the clothing is yes, very expensive. But often anything priced highly has tags still on it. so, you're essentially getting $300 brand new dresses for $100. Do i have the cash for that right now? Hell no! But would I come back in order to get designer for less? Sure! Also, They had 4 morroccan style mint tea glasses that I passed on but now im wishing I didn't. Ugh! I WILL be dragging my boyfriend back when we move in together in a couple of months. Why buy new furniture when they've got amazing pieces right here?

I almost always find awesome stuff here, and i only go for the household goods or decor stuff, always skip their clothing section because the pricing is a little ridiculous. I mean, a Zegna shirt priced at $45? I found one from Salvation Army for $4.99 in way better shape than the one i saw here. Anyway, recently i found 5 Juliska glass for about $15 (they retail for $59 each i think), a vintage Christian Dior wine glass, a Spode Teapot, a vintage Royal Albert teacup/sauce set, a pair of MOLO wine glass (retail for $69) and some nice throw pillows. I avoided them for a while there because while their mission is noble, when i first diagnosed with HIV, they literally shut me out because i don't have medicaid. Secondly, the staffs there usually have these blown up attitude and like they couldn't care less, making the shopping experience usually awkward and painful. So, 3 stars for the sometimes great finds on the housewares and books section, but meh and blah on attitude and clothes pricing.

this place is ridiculous! a second hand store at retail prices! I dont know who or how they priced their clothes but I saw a pair of worn-out jeans at $35.00!!! I went to century 21 and bought a brand new levis for 27.99. they are more expensive than Marshalls and Century 21. I wanted to give them a 0 star but 1 star is as low as yelp allows you to give.

Spring cleaning? Keep only what you love and donate the rest here!

The furniture was definitely AWESOME! If I had a place to put it, I'd definitely buy a LOT! The clothes were OK..saw a few higher end items, Chanel shoes, Dolce and Gabbana Suit, Stella McCartney, etc. Overall, the furniture and housewares are the real finds. Would go back again, though. I love to rummage!

My coworker BFF is obsessed with this place. So much so that we planned our March work schedule AROUND when the spring preview sale was going down. One night after a long day at work, she coerced me into dropping by with her. Housing Works Thrift Shop raises money for Housing Works, a non-profit HIV/AIDS service providing agency. Housing Works provides a wide array of health, housing, legal services and case management services for those that are living with HIV/AIDS. Housing Works does AMAZING work, and I'm so happy that Housing Works Thrift Shop exists to help out with some of the funding. Everyone wins. HWTS is such a charming little place! With lots of vintage-esque, cute, and non-worn down clothes, shoes, books, etc. for sale on the cheap. The shop is clean and well organized, ESPECIALLY for a thrift store. I didn't pick anything up while I was here, but my coworker BFF has shown up to work many-a-time the morning after rummaging through this HWTS location for me to know that good things come to those who wait. In the future, when I'm in the process of getting rid of clothes that I don't need/wear anymore, I will, without a doubt, be donating them here.

Love! I wasn't planning on stopping by, but I on my way to grocery shopping when I thought hey, there's a HW in Chelsea, maybe I should find it and check it out! I'm glad I did! I arrived and saw a much larger HW than the ones I have been to in Nolita and Midtown West. To my surprise, all mens pants and womens pants were on sale for $4, and all suit jackets, skirts, and shorts were $5!! Who knew that thrift stores had sales?? I scored a brand new pair of Joe Fresh pants, Agnona skirt, Zara skirt, J.Crew men's slacks, Ann Taylor PETITE (yay!) suit blazer, J.Crew women's suit skirt, and J.Crew women's suit jacket for a grand total of $28. Woohoo! Selection is pretty decent without having to dig too much, but the sale is what hit the spot.

Housing Works Rocks! Not only is Housing Works a really cool upscale vintage/thrift store but it raises money for a good cause! Housing Works is an amazing organization that raises funding for homeless individuals who are living with HIV and AIDS! So all of the money that is raised from the donations of others, actually goes to a good cause. I just moved to NYC in February and have already been to 2 of it's locations. They have over 11 locations (1 opening soon) and even have an online auction that auctions off everything from vintage trunks to slightly used Marc Jacobs bags! The first time I actually went I was able to snag an Yves Saint Laurent vintage tweed suit jacket! The jacket was originally $75 but it was the first day of their spring event and all of the suite jackets were 60% off! So I brought it for $30! I almost had a fashion orgasm and had to buy it and leave immediately, before the authorities were called! *But like all thrift shops shopping can be a hit or a miss. So always check with there website for special events, look through everything and always examine the garment before you purchase it, because there's no guarantee on it's authenticity! Happy Vintage Shopping! ~RebelliousLeo~

I have not been to their stores and after my experience as a donor I am reluctant. I made an appointment for a pick up for furniture (and smaller items) and when they did arrive (late) they took about five percent of what was promised leaving me with a whole host of furniture and small items I now have to remove in two days. What irks me more than anything is that amount of trouble I went to communicate what I had -- I sent one pic at a time (their email server refused files of more than one pic) of all the items and was asked to box the smaller items. I did all of this in the name of charity and this is the thanks I get...utterly inexcusable. It would appear at least on my end (and when I went to look at the paltry 33% rating the employees themselves give their company) that I am not the only kink in their armor. Their mission is wonderful but their execution is downright pitiful on the communication side and the gratitude side. What is it they say 'its hard to give and easy to take." I would ask customers at the stores to give a little thought to those who donate when purchasing items at their stores. God only knows what corruption lurks under the surface, given how they treated me. My suggestion is that they should, in the case of big donations (I was donating beautiful pieces that were valued in excess of 4K) at least, come and review the pieces first before arranging for a pick up. As a result of their errant business practices I am now left with a whole bunch of furniture that I could have sold on Craig's list or donated to someone else. After being held hostage for 3 weeks (on the appointment) I now have a paltry 2 days to do it, and in all likelihood I will have to pay a construction removal crew to come and take it. What a waste of time and effort this experience has been. Donors should also bear in mind that they don't remove items that are more than one flight, another thing that I was not informed of until they came.

I love their Upper West Side location and after reading about this one on Yelp I had to check it out. It's much larger in comparison, and full of a large variety of different items. Half of the room is clothing, shoes, and accessories, and the other half is furniture, books and misc. home decor. Overall I really enjoyed wandering around and their prices are great. I'll definitely return.

This location is one of my fav HW stores. They have a great selection. Whether it's furniture or clothes that you are looking for., you'll find it. I personally love their dresses. I always end up walking or with at least one. Ladies...there are dressing rooms here, which is always a big plus in a thrift store.

The collection was bigger than the other stores around and the variety was nice, but I'm giving it a three because I thought I would find something for myself, and I didn't. Doesn't mean I won't try again though. ;) They especially had a nice collection of men's jackets and various knick knacks in the back!

I love the atmosphere and felt very comfortable here (ie seemed like a very clean and organized boutique, not a secondhand store). They had some really nice furniture pieces for sale. I checked out the clothing section, which was very organized and presorted through. The selection size was decent but I was disappointed to see high numbers of pieces from Target, Express, Loft and the like. With the prices you might as well buy those new on sale from the original stores. Jackets/blazers were also in the $50+ category. Worth checking out for select pieces but be ready to pay for it. Update 12/6: That said, I looked into the background of Housing Works and found that proceeds go to support the community affected by HIV/AIDS. This puts the prices more into perspective and I would greatly consider donating nicer quality things I've outgrown so that they'll more likely be bought. I'll check it out again once in a while in its other sections.

I had to write a recent review for others. I have always LOVE this store. Furniture and clothing. I have two 7ft corner shelves that I bought for $10 each - 4 years ago. ...That's the thing, all of a sudden some of the prices have reached the unreachable... I have a dress in my closet that I bought from housing works (I have many, but I want to use this one as a reference). It is 100% silk - Milly Made in NYC. It is a very cute cocktail dress. I purchased it last summer for $25.00. I went into the HW on 23rd st last weekend, hoping for some amazing finds. I found wonderful designer dresses, just like the Milly dress... except now.. the designer dresses are priced at $100+. Yes, these are designer dresses... they cost a few hundred dollars... but this is a Thrift Store... I left with nothing and went down the street to Goodwill. I bought 4 amazing designer dresses: A long black satin dress - Zara Women, a grey sweater dress - BCBGMaxAzaria, black cocktail dress - Isabel Lu and last a 100% silk white dress by Chloe. Total cost 4 dresses: $50.00 Save your $ for the furniture.