Thrift shopping and vintage stores have become increasingly popular in recent years. The thrill of finding something unexpected, the fun of exploring with friends, or simply a cost-effective way to buy clothing and home items, makes this an activity that can bond us as a community. Academy St. Thrift, located at 855 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 107 in Glen Ridge, owned by Natalia Bodkin, is such a store that brings people together to thrift and support one another. Read more about Natalia, her store, and her love of community.

Behind Academy St. Thrift

Upon entering this small, but mighty space, which is seven hundred square feet, Natalia, the shepardess of all the store has to offer, welcomes and immediately makes everyone feel right at home. Everything in the store has its own story, some of which is relayed on the hand-written tags that Natalia uses.

Natalia grew up in a military family and frequently moved around. Out of necessity, she and her mother relied on hand-me-down clothing and thrifting. As they moved around the world, thrifting evolved into a love of treasure hunting and cherished moments together. Natalia eventually settled in Hackensack, New Jersey, worked as a teacher, and became the Associate Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Hudson County Community College. Natalia’s experiences growing up, her beliefs, and her commitment to Smarter Sustainability, Radical Inclusivity, and Educate to Elevate inspired her to open a thrift store that embodies these values.

Read More: A Guide to Thrift Stores + Antique Shops in Montclair

The Mission

Academy St. Thrift was initially envisioned in a space on Academy Street in Newark. The concept was to create a safe, joyful, and inclusive space for the community through sustainable fashion. The storefront in Newark did not materialize, but the idea lived in Natalia’s heart, and Academy St. Thrift found its true home in Glen Ridge, where she, her husband, and daughter live. Natalia is also inspired to see upcoming generations visit the store, as they are embracing thrifting to support ethical consumerism.

Natalia has been growing her collection of thrift and vintage pieces for years. From South Africa to global markets, and from Boston to Philadelphia and throughout the Tri-State area, the family visits Goodwills, Red, White, and Blue American Thrifts, and places they stumble upon simply by being lifelong thrifters.

 

What You Can Find at Academy St. Thrift

Natalia has an eclectic collection of household items, including dishes, glassware, vintage records, books, blankets, art, and decorative pieces. The store features an area dedicated to jewelry, bags, and other accessories, as well as a generous shoe rack.

The walls are lined with racks of unisex and non-binary clothing, as well as tagged men’s and women‘s garments. Be sure to ask Natalia about her upcycled designs and one-of-a-kind pieces, which she created using thrift finds from the retail brand Fashion Nova. Additionally, she curates displays and circulates items on a regular basis. This evokes a living, breathing environment that encourages clients to visit frequently and discover something new every time they come through the door.

See More: A Guide to Vintage + Thrift Stores in Hudson County

If you see a “back in 5” sign on her door, Natalia can be found at the Traditional Italian Deli next to her store ordering an espresso soda that reminds her of Panama.

Follow Academy St. Thrift on Instagram here.