Let’s be honest: not everything secondhand is a jackpot.

Some items? Better than new.

Others? Might’ve been better left behind in 2012.

So if you’re ready to stop guessing and start shopping smarter, here’s your insider guide to what to absolutely buy pre-owned — and what you might want to skip (or think twice about).

Why pre-owned isn’t second-best

Pre-owned doesn’t mean low quality — it means someone else paid full price so you don’t have to.

It means the item’s already proven it can survive real life. And now it’s ready for your wardrobe.

You’re not just saving money. You’re unlocking:

• better materials

• longer-lasting construction

• pieces with more personality

• way less guilt if it doesn’t stay forever

But like anything, it’s all about what you buy.

🏆 The MVPs: what’s 

great

 to buy secondhand

1. 

Outerwear

Coats, jackets, bombers, trenches — these are gold secondhand. Why? They’re built to last.

Good outerwear is expensive retail, but durable as hell. You’ll often find barely-worn pieces at 70–80% off.

Look for:

• Wool, leather, denim, technical fabrics

• Longline coats, utility jackets, varsity styles

• Brands like Patagonia, North Face, Acne, Levi’s, Aritzia

2. 

Denim

Vintage jeans? Better than new.

They’re already broken in, softened, and — if you’re lucky — already tailored by time.

Go for:

• Levi’s 501s, Agolde, Citizens, vintage Wrangler

• Rigid or mid-weight cotton blends

• Pre-worn, but not overly stretched out

Pro tip: pre-owned jeans also tell the real fit story. No surprise shrinkage after the first wash.

3. 

Blazers & tailoring

Blazers often cost $$$ new — but many sit in closets unworn. That’s your cue.

Great secondhand options:

• Oversized blazers, cropped jackets, suiting separates

• Look for full lining, shoulder structure, and solid buttons

• Brands like Theory, Zara (yes), Banana Republic, Sandro

Bonus: you can always tailor a great piece for that perfect fit.

4. 

Shoes (in the right condition)

Yep — shoes can be a great pre-owned buy. IF they’re clean, intact, and structurally sound.

Look for:

• Leather boots, loafers, heels, sneakers

• Minimal wear on the insole and heel

• No cracks, deep creases, or heavy odor

Brands like Doc Martens, Veja, Nike, Vagabond, and Timberland age beautifully when cared for.

5. 

Vintage tees & sweatshirts

Nothing beats a lived-in band tee or a soft oversized crewneck.

These only get better with time — and cost way more in vintage shops.

Tips:

• Check for thin fabric (but not holes)

• Neckline and cuffs should hold shape

• Fade = good. Musty = bad.

6. 

Bags, belts, and accessories

You don’t need brand-new leather to flex. Pre-owned accessories are easy wins.

Look for:

• Leather belts, crossbodies, tote bags

• Metal zippers and good stitching

• Clean interiors, minimal corner wear

Sometimes a little patina makes it even better.

⚠️ What to think twice about

1. 

Swimwear & underwear

Hygiene matters. Some places (like us) never resell these — and for good reason.

If you do, make sure they’re new with tags, unworn, and sealed.

2. 

Workout gear

Leggings and sports bras lose elasticity fast. If it looks stretched or thin — skip it.

Instead, focus on outer layers like sweatshirts, joggers, or performance jackets.

3. 

Low-quality fast fashion

Forever 21, Shein, Temu — these are built to be disposable.

By the time they’re on the resale market, they’re usually at the end of their lifespan.

You’re better off putting that $12 toward something that lasts.

4. 

Heavily worn shoes

Once a sole is cracked or the support’s gone, no deal is worth the pain (literally).

Shoes can absolutely be bought secondhand — just check for:

• Even tread wear

• No broken arches or creases across the ball of the foot

• Odor (yeah, again)

Final word: buy what’s built to last — and skip what’s already tapped out

Secondhand shopping is about finding pieces with life left in them — or better yet, pieces that are just getting started with you.

So whether it’s a jacket that makes you feel unstoppable or vintage denim that fits like it’s custom, buying pre-owned can be the smartest style move you make this year.

Just be picky — and wear the hell out of what you choose.

FAQ

How do I tell if a secondhand item is actually worth buying?

Ask yourself:

1. Is it structurally sound? (No holes, cracks, or unraveling seams?)

2. Is the fabric still strong and not worn thin?

3. Are all closures (buttons, zippers, straps) intact?

4. Does it look like something you’ll actually wear — not just something cheap?
   If the answer is yes, it’s probably worth it. If you hesitate — pass.

Isn’t buying used shoes kind of gross?

Not if you do it right. Look for pairs that have:

• Minimal insole wear

• No interior damage or foot odor

• Structurally solid soles and heels
  If you’re unsure, disinfect the inside with a spray or use baking soda. Leather and rubber clean up really well with a bit of love. Bonus tip: use a shoe insert or new insole to make it feel fresh.

Are there brands that hold up better secondhand than others?

Definitely. Quality brands age well — they’re designed that way. Look for:

• Levi’s, Carhartt, Nike, Patagonia, Lululemon

• Mid-to-high tier labels like Madewell, Reformation, COS

• Designer brands that use premium fabrics (Acne, The Row, Ralph Lauren)

How do I know if a fast fashion piece is too worn out to buy?

Check these red flags:

• Ultra-thin fabric that feels like it’ll tear

• Puckered seams or unraveling hems

• Stretchy items that no longer “bounce back”

• Faded prints, flaking graphics, or cheap hardware
  Fast fashion isn’t always a hard no — but most pieces aren’t built to live a second life. Trust your eye (and your fingers).

Is it okay to buy secondhand gifts?

Yes — if you know the person’s style and you choose something with intention.

Look for high-quality pieces in excellent or like new condition, and pair them with a personal note. Many people appreciate the thoughtfulness (and sustainability) of a curated secondhand find. Just maybe skip the visibly used socks.