Brands to Look for When Thrifting

Whenever I’m out thrifting, I always keep an eye out for certain brands.

Over the years, I’ve learned that knowing which brands to look for when thrifting can make all the difference in turning a regular shopping trip into a profitable haul.

In this blog post, I’ll share brands that consistently sell well, tell you how to recognise quality, and why certain names stand out in the world of second-hand fashion and resale.

Why Certain Brands Are Worth Seeking Out

It’s no secret that some brands retain their value better than others.

Whether you’re thrifting for yourself or looking to resell items online, understanding what makes certain labels desirable can help you score big.

Here’s why these brands are worth watching for:

• High resale value: Popular brands, especially those known for quality, can fetch much higher prices on platforms like eBay or Depop.

• Durability: Quality materials and construction mean that these items stand the test of time, even after being worn by previous owners.

• Sustainability: More people are opting for second-hand clothing from reputable brands as part of a conscious effort to reduce waste.

• Timeless style: Some brands offer classic pieces that never go out of fashion, making them a hit with buyers year after year.

Top Brands to Look for When Thrifting

Here are the key brands to look for when thrifting that consistently perform well both for personal wear and reselling.

1. Levi’s

Levi’s is one of the most recognisable brands for denim, and vintage Levi’s jeans are always in demand.

Whether it’s a classic pair of 501s or a denim jacket, you can’t go wrong with Levi’s.

Look out for:

• Vintage denim jackets

• High-waisted, distressed jeans

• Rare Levi’s collaborations

2. Fred Perry

Fred Perry is a classic British brand, and their polo shirts and knitwear are popular finds in charity shops.

The brand is known for its sporty yet stylish appeal, making it a hit with buyers who appreciate retro fashion.

• Polo shirts (with the laurel wreath logo)

• Knitwear and sweaters

• Fred Perry x collaborations

3. Barbour

Barbour is the go-to brand for timeless outerwear, particularly their waxed jackets.

These pieces are built to last, and even used Barbour jackets hold significant value in the resale market.

• Waxed and quilted jackets

• Classic tartan accessories

• Vintage Barbour styles

4. Nike and Adidas

Sportswear is huge in the second-hand market, and Nike and Adidas pieces are highly sought after.

From vintage sneakers to rare collaborations, these brands are always worth scouting for when thrifting.

• Vintage trainers

• Hoodies and sweatshirts

• Limited edition collaborations

5. Burberry

Known for its iconic check pattern and timeless trench coats, Burberry is a brand that can significantly boost your reselling potential.

If you come across any genuine Burberry pieces in good condition, it’s worth snapping them up.

• Classic trench coats

• Scarves and accessories

• Vintage check items

6. The North Face

Outdoor gear is often a thrifting goldmine, and The North Face is a brand that holds its value exceptionally well.

Their jackets, fleeces, and backpacks are both functional and fashionable.

• Puffer jackets

• Fleece jackets

• Hiking gear

7. Patagonia

Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability and quality makes it a popular brand in the resale market.

Thrifting Patagonia is a great find, especially if you come across their signature fleece jackets or outerwear.

• Synchilla fleeces

• Lightweight jackets

• Vintage Patagonia pieces

How to Identify Authentic Designer and High-End Brands

When thrifting, it’s important to know how to spot the real deal.

Here are a few tips to make sure you’re getting authentic items from the brands listed above:

• Check the label: Look for correct spelling, stitching, and placement of logos and tags.

• Inspect the quality: High-end brands use quality materials - cheap fabrics or poorly finished edges are red flags.

• Know your serial numbers: Some brands, like Burberry and Louis Vuitton, include serial numbers or authentication tags inside their products.

• Research key features: Familiarise yourself with the hallmarks of authentic pieces, such as zipper details, button engravings, or signature patterns.

Where to Resell Thrifted Items for Maximum Profit

Once you’ve found some of these coveted brands while thrifting, you can often resell them for a nice profit.

From my experience, here are the best platforms to sell your finds:

• eBay: A large platform with a wide audience. Perfect for high-value brands like Burberry and Barbour.

• Depop: Great for selling vintage and trendy streetwear like Nike, Adidas, and Patagonia.

• Poshmark (UK): Ideal for fashion-focused items such as Fred Perry and The North Face.

• Vinted: Another good option for flipping high street and designer pieces quickly.

Final Thoughts: Brands to Look for When Thrifting

In my experience, knowing the brands to look for when thrifting can significantly increase your chances of finding valuable items.

Whether you’re adding timeless pieces to your wardrobe or looking to turn a profit through reselling, these brands offer quality, style, and a strong resale market.

So next time you’re out thrifting, keep an eye out for these labels - you never know what hidden gems you’ll uncover!