The Garment District
A distinguished Cambridge establishment
Cambridge's Legendary Vintage and Costume Wonderland
Who Runs It
The Garment District has been a Cambridge institution since 1986, evolving from a simple used clothing store into a multi-floor vintage emporium and Halloween headquarters.
The Origin
What started as selling used clothing by the pound became a destination for vintage seekers, costume hunters, and anyone looking for something unique. The basement "By The Pound" section is legendary.
What Makes It Special
Three floors of discovery: curated vintage, the famous Dollar-A-Pound basement, and a costume department that rivals professional rental houses.
Every Cambridge Halloween involves The Garment District. Every vintage lover has lost hours browsing. It's an institution.
What People Love
The hunt, the prices, and the sheer volume. Every visit yields surprises.
What To Know
This is treasure hunting. Be prepared to dig, especially in the basement.
Basement is $2/pound (!). Upstairs curated vintage is priced by piece, ranging from reasonable to collector prices.
Rating Breakdown
Good ratings that reflect the experience: those who embrace the chaos love it; those expecting organized retail may not.
What Customers Say
“Found a vintage Levi's jacket in the basement for $3. My friends couldn't believe it.”
“The costume department is incredible. I've done every Halloween here for 10 years.”
“Basement is not for the faint of heart. It's chaotic and you need patience.”
Insider Tips
Weekday mornings for calmer basement digging. Ask about new clothing drop schedules.
Ask when the next basement restock is happening. Serious hunters time their visits.
The upper floors have well-curated vintage that's worth the premium. The costume rental program is underutilized.
Kendall T is 5 minutes away. Street parking on Broadway.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Dollar-A-Pound work?
The basement sells clothing by weight—$2 per pound. You bag, they weigh, you pay. New clothing drops create lines.
Can I rent costumes?
Yes—the costume department offers both purchase and rental. Great for one-time events.
Known For
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible
Reddit Mentions
Nearby in East Cambridge
Contact & Visit
Local businesses here have survived since before America existed.
“I guess you've just gotta find something you love to do and then do it for the rest of your life.”
— Max Fischer, on entrepreneurship