The Top 8 Thrift Store Fashion Finds for Resale

Thrifting isn’t just a great way to build your own low-cost wardrobe in an eco-friendly way. It’s also a great way to make some extra money, whether as a hobby or even on a full-time basis. 

With sometimes thousands of clothes and accessories passing through a thrift store’s inventory even single day, it’s easy to find great deals that are priced to move. A thrift store’s audience is local; if you’re a reseller online, you can sell globally. And the right buyer in a different market might be happy to pay a lot more than a local thrifter. Why not help a piece of clothing find its forever home with a buyer who adores it and make a bit of profit for your time?

In this article, we’ll reveal the top 8 thrift store fashion finds that are most likely to earn you a substantial profit. Keep an eye out for them on your next thrift store trip!

high-end athletic wear

Popular brands like Lululemon, Athleta, Alo Yoga, and Nike often retail for high prices on resale platforms but sell at a fraction of the cost in thrift stores. Look for current and recent collections, as they tend to sell for higher prices, and make sure that the condition is excellent with minimal signs of wear. Medium and large sizes tend to sell better than extra small and extra large.

Not all athletic wear is going to sell well. Avoid anything with noticeable wear and tear, anything that seems low quality, damaged products and obviously outdated styles.

Vintage Band T-Shirts

Authentic band t-shirts are a perfect example of items that will sell well online but might have less of a local audience. Look for bold graphics, minimal wear & tear, big band branding and text tying the shirt to a specific tour or event. Popular bands might sell faster, but niche shirts might sell for more online to collectors and fans for rare apparel. Do a quick search online for what similar shirts are selling for before you commit to a purchase.

Vintage Levi’s Jeans

Classic jean styles, like 501s, are in high demand to their durability and iconic status. Look for jeans made in the USA that are in great shape and priced low when choosing what to sell. Once again, popular sizes in the medium to large range are going to be easier to turn around quickly at a profit.

Cashmere Sweaters

High-quality cashmere is always in demand, and thrift stores often underprice these items. When assessing whether or not to buy a sweater for resale, start by checking the feel of the fabric and the label. Choose 100% cashmere only and avoid cashmere that’s scratchy or rough; it should be incredibly smooth. Make sure there are no stains, the fabric is free of damage, and the color doesn’t appear faded.

Retro Sneakers

Identifying retro sneakers requires knowledge of popular makes and models, current market trends, and key indicators of authenticity and condition. Try to focus on well-known brands, including Nike, Adidas, Reebok and Converse. Iconic models, like Air Jordans, Adidas Superstars, and Reebok Pumps are particularly sought after.

While you’re in the store, checking websites like StockX and GOAT can be helpful for identifying the current market value and demand. Before making a purchase decision, of course, it’s import to inspect the condition. Make sure the sizes of both shoes are the same, verify there is only minor wear, and confirm there are no strong, unpleasant odors. Check for accurate branding, high-quality stitching, and authentic materials and craftsmanship.

Designer Handbags

Brands like Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and Coach can often be found in local thrift stores at significantly discounted prices. The hardest part is quickly authenticating the item, which thrift stores typically aren’t able to do (and so it’s priced accordingly). Here are a few key things to look for to tell a genuine item from a fake while you’re shopping:

• The logo and branding: Look for clear, precise branding, with consistent font and spacing.
• The stitching: High-end brands use even, tight stitching. Avoid seams with loose thread, uneven stitching or inconsistencies. 
• The lining: Expect branding lining with quality and consistency.
• The smell: Avoid products with a chemical odor.
• The hardware: Look for high-quality zippers, clasps, and buckles that feel substantial and operate smoothly.

Designer Sunglasses

High-end sunglasses from brands like Gucci, Oakley, Prada, and Ray-Ban can often be undervalued at thrift stores. Beyond focusing on popular, known brands, make sure to assess the condition and quality of the sunglasses. Lenses should not have any scratches, cracks, or other damage. Even more importantly, make sure the lenses are not prescription. 

Make sure the frames are free of any wear, bending or damage. The nose pads and ear pieces should be intact and show only light signs of wear. 

Vintage Leather Jackets

A timeless piece of fashion, vintage leather jackets can often be resold at significantly higher prices than you will find at a thrift store–provided they are the right brand, condition, authenticity and style.

Look for well-known brands like Wilson’s, Harley-Davidson, Schott and Avirex. They tend to have stronger resale markets and are highly sought after. Designer labels can also be good finds, including pieces from Gucci and Ralph Lauren.

High-quality leather should feel supple and durable. Wear and distressing can add character, but avoid any excessive wear or damage that seems accidental. Assessing the wear inside the jacket is equally important, and a well-maintained lining can indicate that the jacket has been well cared for. Finally, make sure all zippers, snaps, and buckles work properly and are free of rust and wear.

Conclusion

Thrifting isn’t just a fantastic way to find unique, high-quality fashion items; it’s also an excellent opportunity to earn extra income, especially if you can apply the guidance in this article. By focusing on high-demand pieces that thrift stores tend to underprice, you can maximize your profits and build a successful resale business.