12 Best Brands To Hunt Down at Every Thrift Shop

Author: Elizabeth Clark
Young woman holding denim jeans on a hanger in a thrift shop. A variety of clothing is in the background on display.

When thrifting, you want to find long-lasting, quality items. Some brands are known for better quality, style, and value than others. Whether you’re after tough outdoor gear, classic jeans, or the latest fashion, knowing which brands to watch for can help.

From top-notch athletic wear like Lululemon to the iconic Levi’s jeans, these names offer great craftsmanship and designs that stay trendy and useful even when bought secondhand. We’ve curated a list of the top brands to watch for while thrifting so you can find quality clothes that are both stylish and affordable.

Lululemon

A variety of Lululemon items from the retail store.
Image Credit: Lululemon; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

Lululemon tops the list for thrifting high-quality workout clothes. The brand stands out for its top-notch fabrics, long-lasting seams, and trendy looks. Their clothing is known for lasting a long time and staying in great condition, even with regular wear. This makes it a highly sought-after brand.

You can find everything from their famous leggings to cool jackets and comfy yoga wear. Lululemon offers function with style, providing athletic wear that performs well and looks great. Plus, finding it secondhand offers a more affordable way to score high-end gear while being eco-friendly!

Nike

Sneakers and Nike apparel on a charcoal background.
Image Credit: Nike; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

The name Nike is synonymous with sports, making it perfect for thrifters wanting to add some style to their workout wardrobe without breaking the bank. They are known for top-notch sportswear and iconic street fashion, from durable sneakers to versatile athleisure.

Nike gear is built to last, making it a great secondhand find. Their classic designs, like Air Jordans or Dri-FIT tops, never go out of style, so scoring them at thrift stores offers both quality and trendiness at a fraction of the cost.

Levi’s

An assortment of items from Levi, such as denim and leather.
Image Credit: LEVI STRAUSS & CO; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

If you are on the hunt for some classic good quality denim, Levi’s is one to watch for when thrifting. Their jeans are known for durability, comfort, and that classic Americana vibe.

Whether it’s vintage 501s or perfectly broken-in jackets, Levi’s pieces are built to last and only get better with age. Finding Levi’s secondhand offers a chance to own iconic denim that holds up in both quality and style, all while being budget-friendly.

Columbia

A variety of Columbia Fall/Winter 2024 clothing items and accessories.
Image Credit: Columbia Sportswear Company; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

If you love the outdoors, keep an eye out for Columbia pieces while thrifting. This brand is known for its tough high-performance gear. Columbia makes jackets, fleeces, and outerwear that can handle harsh weather.

Their fabrics, like Omni-Heat and waterproof materials, are designed for durability and performance. Buying Columbia secondhand gives you a chance to get reliable long-lasting outdoor clothes for much less than you’d pay in stores.

Carhartt

A variety of Carhartt Fall/Winter 2024 clothing items and accessories.
Image Credit: Carhartt, Inc; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

Carhartt has become incredibly trendy over the years!  Known for its rugged jackets, overalls, and work pants, Carhartt pieces are made to withstand hard labor and rough conditions.

Gen Z is really into Carhart hoodies and toques right now. Scoring one of these pieces in good condition at a thrift shop is like finding treasure.

North Face

A variety of women's North Face attire and accessories.
Image Credit: North Face; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

The North Face brand is famous for its rugged jackets, fleeces, and workout clothes that blend the latest fashion tech with comfort. If you’re in the market for insulated outerwear or light layers, The North Face provides dependable shelter from harsh weather.

Snagging it secondhand gives you a chance to get top-notch long-lasting gear that’s perfect for outdoor adventures, without breaking the bank.

Patagonia

A variety of clothing and accessory items from Patagonia.
Image Credit: Patagonia, Inc.; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

If you can find a Patagonia piece while thrifting, make sure you snag it! This brand is recognized for its dedication to sustainability and high-quality outdoor gear and is very expensive to buy brand-new.

Their jackets, fleeces, and workout clothes are built to last and perform well, which means they hold up even when bought used. Patagonia’s emphasis on green practices and classic styles ensures you’re not just getting dependable gear, but also backing a company that cares about the environment. It’s great for both adventure and everyday use!

adidas

A variety of clothing and accessory items from Adidas.
Image Credit: Adidas; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

adidas is a thrifting favorite for both athletes and streetwear enthusiasts. Known for its high-performance gear and classic style, adidas offers everything from iconic sneakers to versatile activewear.

Their pieces are built to last, making secondhand finds just as reliable and stylish. Scoring items like their Superstar shoes or Trefoil hoodies in a thrift store means you’re getting quality, comfort, and timeless design for a fraction of the cost.

Zara

A variety of clothing and accessory items from ZARA.
Image Credit: ZARA; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

Zara is a fantastic brand to search for when thrift shopping, especially for fashionistas. The company mixes high-end runway looks with reasonable prices. Their stylish clothes offer a boost to any wardrobe.

You’ll find both eye-catching pieces and versatile essentials, with designs that hit the mark every time. When you thrift Zara items, you can keep up with current fashion trends while saving money.

Ralph Lauren

A variety of clothing and accessory items from Ralph Lauren.
Image Credit: Ralph Lauren; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

Ralph Lauren is more than a brand — it’s a symbol of class and timeless elegance. Whether it’s a tailored blazer or a sharp polo, discovering Ralph Lauren at a thrift store feels like hitting the jackpot.

Perfect for casual outings or formal events, these pieces add a touch of sophistication that’s hard to match, giving thrifters the thrill of owning designer fashion without the steep price tag.

Free People

A variety of clothing and accessory items from Free People.
Image Credit: Free People; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

Free People is known for its boho-inspired trendy fashion. Its unique prints, flowy fabrics, and one-of-a-kind designs add a bit of easy style to any closet.

The brand’s top-notch materials and workmanship mean that even secondhand items look good and last long. Thrifting for Free People gives you a shot at snagging stylish fashionable clothes at a more affordable price.

L.L.Bean

A variety of clothing and accessory items from LL Bean.
Image Credit: L.L.Bean Inc.; Edit by The Enemy of Average.

L.L.Bean is a top pick when thrifting for reliable, classic outdoor wear. Known for its durable, well-made clothing and gear, L.L.Bean items — like their iconic Bean Boots and cozy sweaters — are built to last.

The brand’s commitment to quality and timeless design means even secondhand pieces remain functional and stylish. Scoring L.L.Bean at a secondhand store gives you great bang for your buck and adds a touch of outdoor flair to any closet.

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