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Top 10 Brands to Look For When Thrift Shopping

January 10, 2025
6 min read
By FlipScan Team
Top 10 Brands to Look For When Thrift Shopping

Knowing which brands to look for can make the difference between a profitable flip and a waste of time. Here are the top 10 brands that consistently sell well in the resale market.

1. Patagonia

Patagonia items, especially vintage pieces, are highly sought after. Look for their fleece jackets, vests, and outerwear. Even used items can sell for 50-70% of retail value.

2. Lululemon

Lululemon athletic wear maintains excellent resale value. Leggings, sports bras, and jackets are particularly profitable. Check for the Lululemon logo and quality of the fabric.

3. Coach

Vintage Coach bags and accessories are collector's items. Look for the classic leather bags with the Coach logo. Authentic vintage pieces can sell for hundreds of dollars.

4. Levi's Vintage

Vintage Levi's jeans, especially from the 70s-90s, are highly collectible. Look for the red tab, specific model numbers, and vintage tags. Some pairs can sell for $100-300+.

5. Doc Martens

Vintage Doc Martens boots are always in demand. Look for Made in England tags and classic styles. Even well-worn pairs can sell for $50-150.

6. Carhartt

Carhartt workwear, especially vintage pieces, has become fashionable. Jackets, overalls, and pants can be profitable flips. Look for the classic Carhartt logo and quality construction.

7. Ray-Ban

Vintage Ray-Ban sunglasses, especially Aviators and Wayfarers, are collectible. Look for authentic pieces with proper branding. Vintage pairs can sell for $50-200+.

8. Pendleton

Pendleton wool items, especially blankets and jackets, are highly valued. Look for their distinctive patterns and quality wool. Vintage pieces can sell for $100-300+.

9. Birkenstock

Vintage Birkenstock sandals and clogs are always in style. Look for Made in Germany tags and classic styles. Even used pairs can sell for $40-100+.

10. The North Face

The North Face jackets and outerwear maintain good resale value. Look for vintage pieces and popular styles like Nuptse jackets. Can sell for $50-200+ depending on condition and style.

Tips for Identifying Authentic Items

When looking for these brands, always check for:

  • Authentic tags and labels
  • Quality of materials and construction
  • Brand-specific details and logos
  • Condition - even used items can be valuable if in good shape

Conclusion

These brands represent just a starting point. The key to successful flipping is continuous learning and staying updated on market trends. Use tools like FlipScan to quickly identify valuable brands and make informed buying decisions.