Shopping for cute clothes does not have to mean spending hundreds of dollars on a new wardrobe. With resale apps like Depop, Vinted and Poshmark, finding unique pieces, recognizable brands and vintage gems can be as easy as typing the right words into a search bar. The trick is knowing which brands to look for and how to search beyond the same trendy pieces everyone else is wearing.
Whether you need some new going-out tops, vintage denim, classic sweaters or designer accessories, secondhand shopping can help you build a wardrobe that feels personal without breaking the bank. So here is a quick, go to guide for finding the best brands, the perfect items terms to search and hidden gems worth looking for on your next online shopping spree.
Start With the Right Denim
A good pair of jeans can completely change an outfit, but finding the right fit often takes some digging. Instead of searching only for generic terms like “blue jeans,” try looking up brands known for their denim.
Brands to search: Levi’s, Miss Sixty, Guess, Abercrombie & Fitch, Citizens of Humanity and Agolde.
What to type into the search bar:
- “Levi’s 501 vintage jeans”
- “Miss Sixty low-rise jeans”
- “Vintage Guess denim”
- “Abercrombie vintage denim”
- “Citizens of Humanity straight-leg jeans”
For a more Y2K-inspired look, search for low-rise jeans, flared denim and embellished pockets. If you prefer a timeless wardrobe, look for straight-leg jeans, classic Levi’s cuts and dark-wash denim.
Find the Going-Out Tops Everyone Wants
Going-out tops are one of the easiest ways to experiment with your style without investing in an entirely new outfit. Secondhand platforms can be especially useful for finding older designs, unique details and pieces that are no longer sold in stores.
Brands to search: Bebe, Guess, Miss Sixty, For Love & Lemons and vintage Abercrombie & Fitch.
What to type into the search bar:
- “Vintage bebe going-out top”
- “Guess Y2K halter top”
- “Miss Sixty fitted top”
- “For Love & Lemons lace top”
- “Vintage Abercrombie camisole”
Look for lace details, halter necklines, fitted silhouettes, interesting textures and embellished designs. Searching by a specific style, such as “lace-trim camisole” or “halter neck top,” can also uncover great finds from brands you may not have considered.
Shop for Sweaters That Look More Expensive
A classic sweater is one of those wardrobe pieces that can make an outfit look polished with very little effort. Whether you prefer a preppy aesthetic or something more casual, secondhand shopping is a good place to look for quality knitwear.
Brands to search: Polo Ralph Lauren, Lacoste, J.Crew, Tommy Hilfiger and vintage L.L.Bean.
What to type into the search bar:
- “Polo Ralph Lauren cable-knit sweater”
- “Lacoste vintage cardigan”
- “J.Crew cashmere sweater”
- “Tommy Hilfiger rugby shirt”
- “Vintage L.L.Bean wool sweater”
Pay attention to fabric composition when browsing listings. Wool, cashmere and cotton knits can be worth seeking out, but always check the condition, measurements and care requirements before purchasing.
Look for Bags That Elevate an Outfit
Accessories can make a simple outfit feel much more intentional. Rather than buying a new bag every season, search for secondhand styles with interesting shapes, quality materials and designs that work with multiple outfits.
Brands to search: Coach, Fossil, Dooney & Bourke, Longchamp and vintage DKNY.
What to type into the search bar:
- “Vintage Coach leather shoulder bag”
- “Fossil vintage leather bag”
- “Dooney & Bourke small crossbody”
- “Longchamp Le Pliage”
- “Vintage DKNY shoulder bag”
Vintage leather bags can be especially appealing because they often have distinctive shapes and hardware. Before buying, look closely at photos of the corners, handles, lining and zipper. For higher-priced designer pieces, verify authenticity and compare prices across multiple listings.
Find Dresses and Skirts With Personality
If you love feminine outfits, romantic details or statement pieces, secondhand shopping can help you find designs that feel less mass-produced.
Brands to search: Gunne Sax, Laura Ashley, Betsey Johnson, Free People and Reformation.
What to type into the search bar:
- “Gunne Sax vintage dress”
- “Laura Ashley floral midi dress”
- “Vintage Betsey Johnson dress”
- “Free People lace mini dress”
- “Reformation floral dress”
For a romantic aesthetic, try searching for floral prints, lace, ruffles and delicate fabrics. For something more playful, look for mini skirts, plaid patterns and vintage-inspired silhouettes. You can also search by the decade or style you want, such as “1990s floral dress” or “Y2K denim mini skirt.”
Do Not Overlook Shoes and Accessories
Sometimes the best secondhand finds are the pieces that finish an outfit. Shoes, belts, jewelry and sunglasses can add personality without requiring a complete wardrobe refresh.
Brands to search: Dr. Martens, Frye, Vagabond, Swarovski and Betsey Johnson.
What to type into the search bar:
- “Dr. Martens leather loafers”
- “Frye vintage leather boots”
- “Vagabond ankle boots”
- “Vintage Swarovski necklace”
- “Betsey Johnson statement earrings”
For jewelry, try searching for specific styles in addition to brand names, such as “silver charm necklace,” “vintage heart pendant” or “gold statement earrings.” This can reveal pieces from smaller labels and independent sellers, too.
The Search-Bar Trick That Changes Everything
One of the biggest mistakes secondhand shoppers make is searching too broadly. Typing “cute sweater” into a resale app can return thousands of listings, many of which may not match what you want.
Instead, combine a brand, an item and a style. For example, search “vintage Ralph Lauren cable-knit sweater” instead of simply “sweater.” If you are looking for a specific era, add terms like “1990s,” “Y2K” or “vintage.” If you want a particular fit, include words like “cropped,” “oversized,” “straight-leg” or “low-rise.”
It is also worth searching for older collections, specific product names and alternative spellings. Sellers do not always describe their items the same way, so changing a few keywords can reveal listings you would otherwise miss.
How to Tell Whether a Find Is Actually Worth It
A recognizable label does not automatically make an item a good deal. Before purchasing, compare the listing price with similar pieces and consider shipping, taxes and any platform fees. Read descriptions carefully, check seller reviews and look closely at photos for stains, pilling, missing buttons, damaged zippers and signs of wear. Ask for additional photos or measurements if something is unclear. For designer accessories, be cautious of unusually low prices, vague descriptions and listings that lack clear photos of important details. Also remember that secondhand shopping is about finding pieces you will actually wear. A less expensive item from an underrated brand can be a better purchase than an overpriced trendy label.
Build Your Wardrobe Around Pieces You Love
The best part of secondhand shopping is discovering items that feel different from what everyone else is wearing. You might find a vintage sweater that becomes your everyday favorite, a unique bag that transforms your outfits or a pair of jeans with the perfect fit.
Start with a few pieces you genuinely want, experiment with different search terms and save listings that inspire you. With a little patience, you can build a wardrobe that reflects your personal style without paying full retail prices for everything. The next time you open a resale app, skip the endless scrolling and start searching with a plan. Your next favorite piece might already be listed, you just have to know what to look for.