Little Shop of Hoarders

Little Shop of Hoarders is a vintage and retro clothing store in Rochester's South Wedge neighborhood, operating out of 131 Gregory St. Owner Monika Ludwinek, a lifelong thrifter and collector, opened the shop in 2017 and has grown it from a small storefront into a destination for vintage shoppers across the Rochester area. The store previously operated at 447 Monroe Ave before relocating to its current Gregory St address.

Ludwinek personally curates the inventory, sourcing pieces from estate sales, garage sales, and thrift stores. The shop functions partly as a collective, with consignors and collectors renting space alongside Ludwinek's own finds.

The store carries clothing, shoes, and accessories spanning several decades, from 1940s pieces through 1990s styles. Shoppers can expect to find:

• Jackets, blazers, and outerwear
• Graphic tees, sweatshirts, and blouses
• Pants, shorts, skirts, and dresses
• Shoes, boots, and hats
• Jewelry and accessories
• Locally made items and collectibles

Brands that have appeared in the inventory include Levi's, Lacoste, Members Only, and designer pieces by Bonnie Cashin. Some items still carry original price tags from McCurdy's, the now-closed Rochester department store. New inventory is added almost daily, and the shop is open seven days a week.

Little Shop of Hoarders has built a reputation around its tightly curated selection, distinguishing it from the dig-through-everything approach of traditional thrift stores. The shop won the Best Vintage Clothing Store designation from Rochester's CITY Magazine, competing against established local shops including The Op Shop and Record Archive. An event room on-site hosts weekend pop-ups, live music, and group activities, adding a community dimension beyond retail.

The shop sits at 131 Gregory St in the South Wedge, one of Rochester's walkable neighborhoods just south of the Genesee River. The South Wedge corridor along South Avenue features a mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a natural area for browsing. Gregory St is a residential side street a short walk from the South Wedge's main commercial stretch, offering a quieter setting with street parking typically available nearby.