Thrifting and Resale Without the Regrets
Secondhand shopping can get you better-made clothes for less. A few habits make sure the bargain is a real one.
Remember this
- Thrift stores, consignment shops and resale apps each work differently, with different prices and return rules.
- Check seams, zippers, underarms, cuffs and stains in good light before buying.
- On resale apps, ask for measurements and extra photos, and pay only through the app.
- Designer items sold secondhand are a common place for counterfeits.
Secondhand clothes keep good garments in use and often cost a fraction of the original price. Where you shop changes how you should approach it.
Three ways to buy secondhand
| Where | How it works | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Thrift stores | Donated items sold at low prices, often by charities | Lots of searching; usually no returns |
| Consignment shops | Owners sell through the shop and share the price | Curated and higher-priced; check the return rules |
| Resale apps and websites | Individuals sell directly or through a platform | Check measurements, photos and the platform’s buyer protection |
The two-minute inspection
Check every piece in good light:
- Seams and hems: pull gently; loose stitching is easy to fix, torn fabric isn’t.
- Zippers and buttons: run the zipper up and down; count the buttons.
- Underarms, collars and cuffs: look for stains, yellowing and wear.
- Fabric: look for pilling, thin patches, holes and moth damage on wool.
- Smell: some odors don’t wash out.
Try this
Read the fiber content label. A secondhand wool coat or silk blouse can cost less than a new synthetic one, and good fabric often lasts longer. Our guide to spotting well-made clothes has more checks.
Buying on resale apps
- Ask for the garment’s measurements, not just the size label.
- Ask for photos of the label, seams and any flaws.
- Keep payment and messages inside the app. Paying a seller directly usually means giving up the platform’s buyer protection.
- Be cautious with prices that look too good, especially for designer handbags, shoes and accessories. See how to spot counterfeit fashion.
Fit still matters
A bargain that doesn’t fit isn’t a bargain. Carry your measurements, and remember that a simple alteration can be worth it on a well-made piece.
You asked
Q: Can I return secondhand clothes?
A: Many thrift stores sell items as is, with no returns. Consignment shops and resale apps set their own policies. Check before you buy.
Q: How should I clean secondhand clothes?
A: Wash them according to the care label before wearing. For items that can’t be washed, follow the label’s dry cleaning instructions.
Q: Is vintage sizing different?
A: Often, yes. Sizes have changed over the decades, so rely on measurements rather than the size on an old label.
This guide is general shopping information, not legal, tax or medical advice. Store policies, sizes and rules vary, so check the retailer’s details and official sources such as FTC.gov and IRS.gov.