How to Make Money Thrifting Clothes: My Personal Guide

If you're anything like me, the thrill of finding hidden gems in a charity shop or at a car boot sale is unbeatable.

But it gets even better when you realise that these treasures can actually turn a profit.

I’ve learned a lot from my thrifting adventures, and in this post, I’ll share how to make money thrifting clothes and turn it into a lucrative side hustle.

Why Thrifting Clothes Can Be Profitable

For starters, second-hand fashion is a booming market.

People are becoming more conscious of sustainability, and there’s a growing appetite for unique, vintage, and branded clothes at affordable prices.

By sourcing quality pieces at low prices, you can resell them for a significant mark-up online or at local markets.

Where to Find the Best Thrifted Clothes for Resale

To make money thrifting clothes, it’s all about knowing where to look.

Here are some great spots for sourcing quality items:

• Charity shops – These are often packed with hidden gems, especially in affluent areas.

• Car boot sales – Great for finding vintage and quirky pieces at bargain prices.

• Online marketplaces – Websites like Depop or Vinted can be a goldmine if you know how to search for under-priced items.

• Wholesalers – Some retailers sell bulk second-hand clothes, which can be a good option if you’re looking to scale up.

What Clothes to Look for When Thrifting

Not everything in a charity shop is worth flipping for profit, so here’s what I keep an eye out for:

• Designer brands – High-end labels like Burberry, Ralph Lauren, and Gucci will always attract buyers.

• Vintage items – 80s and 90s fashion is having a moment, so look for unique, retro styles.

• Trendy pieces – Keep an eye on current fashion trends. Brands like Zara, ASOS, and H&M often sell fast if the style is in demand.

• Quality fabrics – Cashmere, wool, silk, and leather items often hold value well.

• Condition – Always inspect for stains, rips, or missing buttons. Buyers won’t pay top dollar for damaged goods unless they’re very rare or collectible.

How to Price Thrifted Clothes for Profit

Pricing your thrifted clothes correctly is crucial to making money.

Here’s how I approach it:

• Research the market – I always check sold listings on platforms like eBay to get a sense of what similar items have sold for.

• Consider rarity and demand – If a piece is rare or a designer item, I price it higher than average.

• Factor in condition – Clothes in mint condition can command higher prices, but for items with minor flaws, I price slightly lower to ensure a quicker sale.

• Account for platform fees – Always remember that online platforms take a cut. Factor this into your pricing to avoid losing profit.

Where to Sell Thrifted Clothes

To maximise your profits, it’s important to choose the right platforms for selling.

Here’s some to consider:

• eBay – Ideal for a wide range of clothes, especially vintage or branded items.

• Depop – Best for trendy, streetwear styles and vintage finds that appeal to younger buyers.

• Vinted – Great for selling everyday fashion items without paying any seller fees.

• Poshmark – Popular in the US, but growing in the UK for designer and higher-end fashion.

• Instagram – If you’ve got a flair for photography, selling directly through social media can help you reach a dedicated audience.

How to Make Your Thrifted Clothes Sell Fast

Presentation matters when selling thrifted clothes online.

Here are a few tips to make your listings stand out:

• Take quality photos – Use good lighting and take clear, well-styled photos from different angles.

• Write detailed descriptions – Include sizing information, fabric details, and any flaws (if any).

• Use keywords – This is key for SEO on platforms like eBay. I always include terms like "vintage", "designer", and the brand name.

• Offer competitive pricing – I start my listings slightly lower than the competition to attract early buyers.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Then Scale Up

Making money thrifting clothes is a fantastic way to earn extra income, but it’s important to be patient and start small.

Don’t rush into buying bulk items until you’ve got a good feel for what sells.

Over time, you’ll learn which brands, styles, and trends bring in the best profits.

With a bit of practice and persistence, thrifting can become a profitable and enjoyable business venture.

Happy thrifting!