its a nice place to buy clothes but the staff kinda sucks. not the friendliest attitude.

I came here on a Thursday afternoon to sell some clothes. You give the employee your name and phone number, and once they're finished going through your items, they'll give you a call. The process is a little more old-school compared to other trade-in and resale stores since they don't seem to be as electronically up-to-date. I received a call about 10 minutes after dropping off my clothes. I brought in two large bags filled with very nice, name-brand items, many of which still had the price tags on them, and they didn't accept a single thing. I was honestly pretty shocked. For comparison, Buffalo Exchange and Plato's Closet each accepted anywhere from 4 to 10 items from me, so if they don't take anything here, I'd definitely recommend trying some other resale stores. The employees were very friendly, but I was a little surprised by how my clothes were handled after they went through them. They were left sitting right by the front door off to the side. I would have at least expected them to be placed behind the counter or somewhere out of the way. Overall, the staff were friendly, and they did have some cool looking stuff for sale. I didn't spend much time browsing, but it seemed like they had a decent selection. read more

I'm really disappointed with the customer service at Flashbacks today. I understand every customer who sells their clothes deserves time and attention, but more direct instructions on the timeline upfront would be very helpful. Maybe with a sign or virtual queue for buying. Several hours to wait for a bag of clothes is really difficult in this economy for people who can't wait for four hours and have to drive home. That said, they do have a nice selection of items. read more

I always joke that I might have been born in the wrong era. The clothes from the 1960's call to me-I love the tailored dresses and coiffed hair that women wore. However, the politics and societal norms in general don't appeal to me, so I'm thrilled to find the clothing in today's (still admittedly tumultuous) times. I think this must be a chain since I stumbled across the same store in a different town yesterday. But each one is different since the inventory varies as they buy different items from people looking to turn a buck. There are lots of really neat clothes and accessories here. Some that I'd wear every day, others for themed events or special occasions. Either way, I wish there was one near where I live and I'd do a total wardrobe makeover. read more

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I came knowing I needed a jumpsuit for a 70s-themed party, and Isabella was absolutely amazing from start to finish. While I had a general idea of what I wanted, she went above and beyond by pulling a variety of styles and options I hadn't even considered. I truly appreciated her thoughtful suggestions and the time she took to make sure I found something I loved. Isabella was incredibly friendly, helpful, and had a great eye for what would work best for the look I was going for. Thank you, Isabella, for such a great experience. It's small moments like these that restore your faith in customer service. read more

We were looking for clothing to wear to a 70's themed party. Lots of fun choices at this place. read more

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First time coming to this location. Not friendly at all! going to the register to get checked out. 2 ladies standing there NO ONE ACKNOWLEDGES YOU! How snobby can you be to not say hello to a paying customer. I know it's not Nordstrom but like dang, be polite. Eventually I was checked out, but man. Just some simple manners would be nice. read more

Stopped by after selling at Buffalo Exchange across the street, where they passed on a few of my items due to their current buying needs. One of those was an authentic Dolce & Gabbana dress, barely a year old and only worn twice, retailing at $1,895 at a couple online retailers, so it's not something considered "off season". Buffalo Exchange gave me a fair and professional explanation as to why they couldn't make an offer, which I respected. Flashbacks, on the other hand, wasn't exactly a warm experience. The sales associates weren't rude, but they weren't friendly either. The kindest way I can describe them is just neutral, but maybe even a little standoffish. They did ask if it was my first time there, but the overall energy was awkward. They were dressed in an edgy, alternative style, which I actually love and often wear myself, but that day I had on a rose gold summer suit. Even with my androgynous style like having icy blue hair and bleached eyebrows, I felt like they didn't see me as their usual crowd. It felt like that played into the lack of enthusiasm about me being there. The real issue was the outright lowball offer on my D&G dress. The employee took their time verifying its authenticity, which I understood, but when they finally made an offer, it was a laughable $25 in cash. They gave me no explanation or reasoning, just a printed receipt with a number that made zero sense for anyone who knows that Dolce & Gabbana is obviously a luxury brand. Considering they had $275 Gucci sandals on display, there was no way they intended to sell an authentic D&G dress for under $100. It felt like they either didn't value designer pieces or were hoping to take advantage of someone desperate to sell. Either way, not a good look. To top it off, when I declined, they handed my dress back without bothering to wrap it back up in the tissue paper I had originally wrapped it in. It's the small things like that that show a store's attitude toward customer service. Flashbacks wasn't a total disaster because they do have very cute items that I would've enjoyed looking through, but between the awkward atmosphere, lack of transparency in pricing, and dismissive handling of a luxury item, I wouldn't recommend selling high-end pieces here unless you're okay with getting next to nothing for them. read more

Visited this store from out of town. Everything was going fine until while I was looking at some rings in the glass case a female employee came up to me and said something. I took out my headphone because I could not hear her and said, "Sorry what was that?" Very passive aggressively and with a fake smile she said in an extremely slowww tone "Woulddddd youu.. like to seeee anyyy ringsss?" As though I had a comprehension problem when I just couldn't hear her due to my music the first time. Walked straight out and didn't buy anything and won't be back anytime I'm in San Diego. Don't waste your time here just go across the street to buffalo exchange you'll get nice young employees there who enjoy their job rather than middle aged women whose life choices wound them up working retail at 40 and take it out on customers. (: read more

First time back in a year! Fun and festive to visit at Christmas time. The staff did an awesome job of designing the front windows to look celebratory and inviting. Who wouldn't want to shop here for their ugly Xmas sweaters or festive party fashion? The staff is super welcoming and helpful. So glad the dressing rooms are all open again. They have cubby boxes in front to keep your larger bags or purses while you shop. They have a counter for paying and another one for trading in or selling clothes as well. Love the bright colorful interior and the unique selection of vintage wear. Come check it out! Always a decent selection and high quality items --good value for the prices! read more

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In and out lol... this place used to be such a gem in Hillcrest, it's sad to see it go to waste. The employees are so rude.... I didn't even get a chance to really look through the store. There's a sign in the front that says no backpacks allowed.... And I was shopping earlier in the day so I went out of my way to ask the employee if I could go ahead and leave my stuff there cause I saw the no backpack sign.... The worker with the beautiful curtain bangs working tonight at the register 10/26/25 @630pm was extremely rude... (I guess you should never judge a book by its cover) Told me, "yeah sure I guess we can hold it up here usually people just put it in the bins" and gave me such a terrible look.... And the other employee seems so confused. I literally was so turned off by their customer service.... I had to go ahead and just say you know what forget it. I was trying to do my part and abide by your guises rules, but it seems like you guys don't even care... I will never go back to the store, it's such a shame that what used to wants to be a beautiful vibrant store full of friendly people in Hillcrest of all neighborhoods of San Diego has such demonic I'll soul people .... If you hate your job that much just quit. read more

I bought a wig from Flashbacks 18 years ago and still wear it every Halloween! Great quality. Love this store. I'll be back in soon to transform into the Pope for this year's Halloween. Hail Mary! read more

What a fun store! Rainbow wigs, fun disco pants and very fun clothes! First time and we found some cute items for reasonable prices. Employees were busy hanging new stock and it was fun to watch one get an outfit together for someone. If we had cooler weather I may have bought me a fun furry jacket! read more

TERRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE AND ATTITUDE. Called to ask if they buy certain size / style at around 5:40pm on a Thursday (rush hour) ,whoever answered the phone was helpful and professional (only reason for 2 stars instead of 1) she told me they did indeed buy what it was I had. I said I'm close by and she said "we'll see you soon". Great! I'm only 2 exits from the 5th Ave location but as it was rush hour it took me about 15 minutes, parking was surprisingly easy considering it's on 5th ave. Unloaded and walked into store. I told them I had spoken to someone on the phone about selling and a woman named "Jill" (unless she was lying) says with attitude "our purchasing counter closes at 6pm." Took out my phone looked at time and said it's 6:03, without looking back up she simply said "yup". I told her it's rush hour and asked if there was no way she could help considering I'm only 3 minutes late? (Probably 2 when I walked in) ... No response. I ask for her name so I can let other people know not to make the same mistake when she's working. With gas prices what they are I wasn't happy about the wasted drive.she looked at the other employee, laughed at me, stayed silent for a few seconds before saying "it's Jill, if you want to go right ahead" and laughed again. First experience with this store, not excited about trying again if I'm being honest. read more

Lured by the Halloween Costumes sign hanging outside, I decided to check this place out. With the amount of time that I've frequented Hillcrest and my penchant for thrift clothing, I'm surprised that I've never set foot in this establishment. There were two circular racks and a wall rack with Halloween costumes, many of them new! Although there isn't as wide a selection as in the Halloween Shops, there is a dressing room available and some of the costumes were reasonably priced. I landed a brand new Cowboy Girl costume at a great price! Of course, I found some gems in the Anthropologie rack and scored a long sleeve Lululemon top! The staff were super friendly and I will definitely come back to shop here again. read more

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Items in the store are overpriced, and their buying policy makes no sense. I understood what they say about the cut they take (very high). Brought in about $1500 worth of clothing. Came on a weekend and was told they only buy on Wednesdays. Came back Wednesday afternoon after work, was told I should come back on Saturday first thing in the morning when the line isn't long. ??? So finally came back on Saturday morning again. Not sure how they grade things, but they took 4 out of my 6 pieces and offered me about $70 for them. I coughed and took out a $800 Chantilly lace dress from the pile. That brought the total they were paying down to about $45. This included a ABS by Allen Schwartz silk charmeuse 30s style backless gown. I was so frustrated. I'll bet the majority of that money was towards the polyester Pinup Couture dress too. Ended up taking the money anyway because the higher amount given for store credit wasn't worth it with how overpriced most of their store was, and I'd already wasted two other days coming by. read more

Customer service needs a lot of improvement. When I walked in, I was not greeted. I was looked at up and down and given a fake smile. I was in the store for 30 minutes, having difficulty picking out an outfit for a disco themed party and while they had many options, it was on the expensive side. I would assume the clothes are vintage most were in pristine condition, but they did have labels on certain clothing items that are fragile and on those type of closings, they seemed worn out. Like customers overstretched it. No one ever approached me and asked me if I needed help. I ended up leaving and going to Goodwill and found what I needed there. read more

This is a thrift store in Hillcrest with all kinds of funky clothes. Lots of color here, and things from the 70s/80s. They also have used shoes and cool accessories. It's not the cheapest thrift store, but it's definitely cool to check out. read more

Worst experience I have ever had as a seller, been selling with them for many years and today was just awful. I called ahead to make sure they were buying. "Oh, yes! Absolutely!* In the past they have always complimented my items. Today I was told there was an odor and they bought nothing. Many of the items were new, bought recently. I inspect very carefully. There were no odors. I will not return. Wonderful place across from them! Buffalo Exchange! Thank you! read more

Cute vintage shop in Hillcrest! Parking You have to pay to park at this location, no free street parking nearby. Buying Experience Friendly salespeople greeted me when I came in. The clothing is organized well- on the wall they have vintage outfits organized by decades. When I went, I felt they didn't have a 70's disco outfit like I was looking for, but they had other cute items. The prices on this wall ranged from $20-30. Overall, I would recommend going here for a specific decade-themed outfit. Even if you don't find what you're looking for, it's fun to look! read more

Love this store. One of a kind curated fashion. It's a go to shop for party gear or any other unique fashion needs.

Wow the window dressings caught my eye and I had to enter. Didn't have much time, the meter at car was ticking ( parking can be a challenge for a newcomer). I managed to quickly snag a couple of plastic earrings, both light weight, unusual and very reasonable. Dangling cats, meow. The 2 women at the check out were so sweet, friendly and helpful. When I return to Hillcrest I'll peruse the merchandise here more leisurely. read more

Star was sooo kind when ringing me up at the register. Had 3 pairs of denim and then Star had mentioned she was the manager of Jewelry, then I asked if she she had any cute, new stuff in... low and behold she showed me the cutest eagle ring w/ an emerald piece in it for only $20. 5/5 dude... read more

Flashbacks Recycled Fashion - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - San Diego, California

love love the staff! They have such fun unique clothes and accessories from ever era. I resell there regularly and tell everyone about them!!!! read more

Flashbacks recycled is something you see in San Francisco or LA. Those tacky, funny recycled fashion stores that have silly vintage clothes. So the Hawaiian shirts caught me. Particularly, I saw a USC Hawaiian shirt and I would have gotten it, but it was too big. Then I did find something I bought. A stupid worn-out alternative polo. These stores do exist and people like them. I mean, I would browse for fun, but it reminds of the 90s. Anyway, in California, we do this. read more

Flashbacks Recycled Fashion - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is so cute and the staff is really nice. I went in to sell some items today and got a really fair payout. They did not take everything, but paid fairly for the items they chose. The whole process was easy and the staff were helpful and friendly. read more

One of my favorite thrift clothes stores in Hillcrest. You never know what you'll find when you come here.

Sooo It's good to be kind! This place is awesome! John and Lyka helped us! They were so helpful and kind and help us pick out stuff and very good at communicating how long it would take we found tons of good stuff and it was amazing! read more

Flashbacks Recycled Fashion - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - San Diego, California

I really like this place. I think they have pretty fair pricing especially being a curated vintage shop. All the workers are very nice and cool. Every time I sell here I get a decent amount of money. So many times I take a pile of clothes to Plato's closet and they take nothing and then I come here I made some solid cash. Def recommend to shop to, lots of cool stuff to look at! read more

This store is awesome fun friendly people they love my Elizabeth, Elizabeth bought me really nice 4 Hawaiian shirts here beautiful. 2 Rein Spooner and a Tommy Bahama you know how much they would cost in a department store o my gosh you people here are just awesome and thanks for treating Elizabeth so well. read more

Rosa and Kate (arguably one of the most beautiful women in San Diego) do business so well and are honest with their prices unlike across the street at Buffalo who try to lowball you. Definitely coming back again. read more

If you're looking for something to wear to a 70s, 80s or 90s themed party, then this is the place for you! Like it's name Flashbacks, you'll find retro,vintage and current styles. It's the perfect place to shop for a costume party, Halloween or any themed event! It's located right across from Buffalo Exchange in Hillcrest. Make sure to check it out for your next costume party! read more

One of my favorite thrift stores in San Diego. I've been here two times within 2 weeks. The customer service is on point - greeted upon walking in and associates acknowledged me few times as I was browsing. Checking out was a breeze - again, friendly customer service. The store is really clean. Most of the photos of the store seems to be an old store. They remodeled and reorganized the store. You can find fun items in here and not so "basic." Try this place out! read more

Huge shout out to John for helping my Daughter find the look she needed. Such a sweet dude, walked around with her and helped her. I appreciate it so very much!! read more

I went into flashbacks today looking to sell some designer heels, I wasn't to sure what aesthetic or if they would even want these newer shoes due it being a vintage store, so I took photos of the shoes just to show if it even was worth lugging. I walk inside and I approach a women with blonde hair about shoulder length behind the counter who seemed to be in charge of the buying counter. I said " I wanted to know if you were interested in buying high end luxury shoes, I have pictures I can show you If your even interested" With a fast snark she says " No I need them here" Really rude and belittling, It was a simple question. I wouldn't want to waste my time and also their time with a bunch of shoe's they aren't interested in. read more

Super cool shop for unique pieces...& even modern. I love coming here as you'll never know what hidden gems you'll find I've even sold quite a bit of pieces as well. I love how it was founded by a mother & daughter in the 70's (if my memory serves me right) & from what I understand they still are involved with the business. #supportlocals ...Always read more

SHOOT ME IN THE FACE. Literally rather take a bullet to the head than have to ask the MISERABLE ladies in the back to open up a dressing room for me last Thursday. If looks could kill!! Yikes! Lol! read more

I absolutely love flashbacks. Every time I visit I come here and I always find some thing. My only complaint is that the rack where the dresses are organized by decade is so packed that it took all of my arm strength to try and look at anything on it. It's like on one hand it is awesome that you guys have so much great stuff but what is the point if I can't even see it read more

I LOVE Flashbacks! One of my favorite consignment shops. I would say about 25% of my wardrobe is from this store and I never leave empty handed. They are constantly getting new inventory and I have found some of the most unique articles of clothing from this shop. The staff are friendly and eager to help start fitting rooms/ give style advice. I usually spend hours in this store, looking through all of the racks. If you want to spend a good amount of time at this store, I recommend parking at the Rite Aid across the street. It does cost a little bit of money to park, but it isn't too expensive and may be cheaper then finding street parking/ having to keep track of the meter when you are knee deep in trying on clothes! The Lost and Found and Buffalo Exchange consignment shops are right next door and usually have good finds as well. I highly recommend this store! read more

Flashbacks Recycled Fashion - Vintage dress from 1960s - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - San Diego, California

Staff wasn't very welcoming, they were huddled behind the register talking and on their phones. Clothes were pricy for what they offered, not a great selection and overall not the best experience. read more