Clothing Brands You Should And Shouldn't Look For While Thrifting

Certain brands are synonymous with quality and hold their value long-term. Generally, the same labels worth investing in when the items are brand new are also worth seeking out when you're thrifting. Long-standing, reputable brands are what you want to search for, whether you plan to keep the clothes or re-sell them later. Buyers at the popular Denver resale boutique, Second Love, told The List that the brands that fly off their shelves are Madewell, Free People, Reformation, MOTHER, Rag & Bone, Daydreamer, Rails, Lovers & Friends, and Aritzia. These brands offer a mix of unique and classic designs crafted with quality materials.

Thrifting experts and professional resellers on Reddit shared that Patagonia, Lululemon, Eileen Fischer, L.L. Bean, St. John, J. Crew, and Theory are some of their top brands to scoop up secondhand. Bonus finds are any high-end designer brands, leather pieces, and clothing items with the tags still attached. Coming across designer gems like Saint Laurent, The Row, or Comme des Garçons is a bit more rare, but when it happens, it can make thrifting worth the hustle.

Let's remember that there are certainly high-quality pieces made from lesser-known labels, too. Bring your phone with you to research a brand on the spot and learn more about its standards before making a purchase. Many times, niche brands produce their pieces in smaller quantities to keep their quality top-notch.