Montgomery County’s shopping reputation rests heavily on its destination mall, its branded outlets, and friendly retailers on main streets. But alongside these front-runners is the community thrift shop, where the budget conscious meet the fans of vintage looks. Philadelphia Magazines’ Erica Moody racked up info on two in-county stores that she finds recommendable.

The appeal of these highly curated shops includes their all-encompassing, ever-evolving stock and the chance to collect chic couture without spending a bundle. Shoppers in search of a retro outfit or accent piece from the 1800s to the 1990s — yup, that’s vintage now — can usually leave with something old that’s new to them. And it won’t blow up a clothing budget.

Brides-to-be, for example, can get five-star merchandise at less-than-four-digit dollar outlays at the Bryn Mawr Hospital Thrift Shop (804 County Line Rd.). Its rack of designer wedding gowns provides the glam without the credit-card slam.

Another Main Line site — Ardmore’s Junior League Thrift Shop — specializes in country-club chic. While much of its stock isn’t vintage, it is upscale without being up-priced.

Typical clothing at this 25 Lancaster Ave. location includes cashmere cardigans, gently worn Prada or Stuart Weitzman shoes, and an abundance of Lilly Pulitzer–branded clothing.

For even greater variety in second-hand style, a football-field-sized spread of flea-market finds is coming to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks. Philly Vintage Flea takes place there on Oct. 23, 11 AM to 5 PM.

More on local thrift shop bargains is at Philadelphia Magazine.