San Francisco’s Mission neighborhood eclectically combines rock and roll fringe living with an international and suburban twist. This part of town is home to sunny days, artists, quarter-life crisis victims, and lots of families. Signs of this unique blend of bodies are seen in the full sidewalks, bike lanes, and assortment of mismatching stores that line the street. Supporting these various lifestyles, and especially that of the undeniably well dressed group of twenty something’s that live in the area, are the thrift stores. Now, these monstrous stores are not to be confused with The Painted Birds and Idol Vintages who also call this hood a home. The stores I speak of are for the more determined fashionista or the more hard-up for change, and rest on a foundation of dollar bins, pink and green tag sales, and lots and lots of plastic hangers. Here are my top picks of lazy day thrift store pleasures in the one and only Mission.

In the middle of an unsuspecting block of Mission St. lies the funhouse of fashion, Mission Thrift, 2330 Mission St. (415) 821-9560, Open Mon-Sun 11am-7pm. Most barrio foodies regularly pass this renovated theater to dine out in such restaurants as Cha Cha Cha or to grab a cheap bite at Taqueria Cancun. Because they close a little early, and partly because I work a little late, I had passed this location quite a few times without being able to enter. The entrance of the dive is replete with racks of $2 sundresses, button-up get-ups, and pants. I recommend to shoppers that rifling through patiently can be a rewarding exercise. One of the best parts of Mission Thrift is their killer shoe selection. True bargain shopping enthusiasts and thrifting thrill seekers out there commiserate on how difficult it is to find secondhand shoes. This neighborhood gem offers a funky fusion of vintage and thrift captured most perfectly in their large variety of men and women’s boots of all shapes and sizes, along with other fancy kicks. Although this store is a bit pricier than need be I believe it fits into this category effortlessly; it also contains a small fortune of funky costume attire at okay prices. Once you get into the groove, searching good and hard between the racks upon racks of clothing, you will surely find some sweet items at fine prices.

If you continue walking into the heart of the mission towards the two-story, penny-pinchers’ paradise, Thrift Town, 2101 Mission St, (415) 861-1132, Open Weekdays 9am-8pm; Sat 10am-7pm; Sun 10am-6pm. The smells of international restaurants and the beats from Ritmo Latino will inspire you. The buzz of migrating cool kids' IPods and the cries of babies and chatter of families all walking towards the store will make you feel the importance of this bohemian and multicultural Mecca.

Racks upon racks of second and third hand clothing fill in the bottom floor, providing hours of shopping pleasure. The “vintage” row leaves much to the imagination, but among countless other sections of the store expect to find fashionable digs for the most urban chic look you could dream-up.

The men will be pleased to find hundreds of plaid button-downs and printed tees to outfit their looks, but may have a difficult time finding any shoes that fit. Some less traveled territory of the first floor has led me to find some of my most treasured items. Upon entering the store you’ll see the men’s and children’s clothing to the back, right hand side of the store. Beyond that you’ll see hanging sheets, comforters, and pillows, and want to immediately declare that zone as your own personal ‘No Man’s Land.’ Well don’t! What you can’t see are some metal racks that act as a boundary between the two areas.

These goldmines are spilling over with things you probably don’t want, but wrapped into these undesirables, are a bunch of awesome vintage purses, hats, scarves, belts, and other accessories that have been tucked away for you to track down.

As you mosey on towards the back to pursue the shoes and bags, work your way up the stairs towards the used house wares, furniture, books, and sporting goods. If you need to outfit your new apartment in the city with cheap furniture, let me recommend the ‘Free’ listings on Craigslist. For some reason, the broken down bed frames and chest of drawers at Thrift Town are extremely overpriced.

Quickly glance for any sale priced furniture that may crowd the narrow aisle as you work your way back to the dishes, art, knick knacks, and chotchkies. Among these shelves keep your eyes peeled for kitschy wine goblets, ash trays, and mugs. Don’t overlook any corner of the upstairs, because tucked away are awesome retro track bags, cheap lamps, and priceless White Elephant gifts. I recommend buying one of Thrift Town’s signature large canvas bags at a little under $2. This will make your carbon footprint even smaller by buying secondhand and leaving with it in an eco friendly tote.

Also Check Out...
Community Thrift, 625 Valencia St (between 17th St & Clarion Aly, (415) 861-4910, Open Mon-Sun 10am-6:30pm.Although not on the top of my list, this junky treasure trove has killer home goods, vintage vinyl and accessories. Everything else can be a hit or miss, but each first Monday of the month the entire inventory is 1/2 price. So it's worth the extra elbow grease to find what you really want.

Along with these powerhouses are the individuals who stake out their corners and house fronts every weekend to make some extra cash. Up and down Valencia and Mission, and all along the numbered streets, you’ll find men and women alike selling some prized possessions at practically-nothing prices. They seem to be there one weekend and gone the next, so get a group of friends together and combing the area, one weekend morning, in hunt for these urban yard sales. The vendors are always up for a good laugh and haggle, so have fun with it and ride away with some excellent gear.