Top 12 Thrift Store Finds You Should Never Pass Up

Thrift stores offer the chance to find great deals on items that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford, or would rather not spend the cash on. And, despite what some people might say, there are often some seriously high-quality items in ‘like-new’ condition.

With over 25,000 thrift stores in the U.S., we know there is demand for these items and have put together this list based on what regular thrifters claim to be great finds. We know these stores can be overwhelming, so the next time you’re in one be sure to look out for these 13 hauls.

Leather Jackets

New genuine leather jackets can cost anywhere between $100 and $1,000. The leather holds great condition for many years, if not decades. At a thrift store, you can find a great bargain for biker-style jackets from brands such as Real McCoy, Langlitz, Vanson, Lewis, Thedi, Himel, and Rainbow Country. For flight jacket style, you can trust Aero, Goodwear, Real McCoy, Eastman, and Bill Kelso.

But remember to trust your eye and touch. If it looks in good condition and the label says it’s real leather, it’s worth the purchase. If not, it might be fake and degrade fast.

Antique Furniture

High-quality furniture is expensive, and it’s tough to find budget pieces that are built to last and worth keeping for years. We use IKEA furniture as much as anyone else, but thrift stores can give you the chance to find antiques and unique designs you’d never find anywhere else.

If you’re after that 70s space-age vibe or antique oaks, then remember to make the purchase the next time you’re thrifting.

High-Quality Dresses

Dresses are another purchase that can sell for several hundred dollars when new. Well-made ones use superior materials with natural fibers, free from polyester and cheaper plastic-based fabrics. These materials look better, fit better, and are more durable and comfortable.

If you spot a dress you like, check the label to read the material and see if the stitching is nice. If it looks good, then don’t pass it up as you’re getting your hands on a real steal! Sometimes thrift stores have retro dresses that can give you a unique look.

Antique Glassware

“Depression glass,” was extremely popular in the 1920s and 30s is now very collectible and offers quality that’s hard to find today without breaking the bank. Glass such as petal pinks, milk glass, iridescent carnival glass, and pale greens can all not only resell for good value but also provide a great, unique addition to your home.

Silverware

Like glassware, silverware can maintain serious long-term value. You’re unlikely to see it in every thrift store, so when you do, don’t pass up! The likes of punch bowls and champagne buckets can even be used as containers for pens, flowers, or food. You might also find some fancy-looking cutlery sets.

Silverware can develop a patina over time, which is a natural declaration. Patina can add character that you’ll just never find in newer sets.

Boots

As long as they’re not super worn, leather boots and professional footwear offer great value at thrift stores. You can even find models sold decades ago that you’ll never find new today.

Don’t be worried about whether someone else wore them first, as leather eventually creases where your foot bends and can reshape over time. If the sole isn’t in great condition, you can always add an insole or have the soles redone. Just watch out for funky smells!

Synthesizers

Instruments are hit-and-miss at thrift stores, as many wannabe musicians give away their one-month guitar dreams. But we’re not interested in budget guitars. If you see a synthesizer, make a quick Google search for its value.

It’s not going to happen often, but some people have landed incredible deals at thrift stores for retro synths that are worth thousands of dollars today. Even if it requires a bit of repair, you could have landed a piece of music history.

Retro Consoles

Although most people want to play the latest consoles, the games of yesteryear still offer great fun, unique games and can re-sell for big prices. If you see anything from the 90s especially (such as a NES or Nintendo 64) then you should definitely invest.

If you have a loved one or friend who’s a gaming fanatic, they’ll also love an old console as a gift.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

If you don’t have a KitchenAid Stand Mixer, we get it— they’re expensive, selling for as much as $500 brand new. Thankfully, it’s not unheard of to find them in thrift stores in great condition. We think they probably get given as wedding registry gifts and are then forgotten about by the newlyweds.

LEGO

LEGOs can be far more expensive than you might think. Although there is the risk of the odd missing brick, all the instruction manuals are online now. You could save hundreds on a used LEGO set, which is great fun for LEGO fans both young and old. In particular, look out for LEGO Technic and adult builds as these are the most expensive packs.

Designer Suits

Now, be warned. There are a lot of mediocre suits at thrift stores. But be alert for designer brands or anything that you think will look particularly good on you, because you could save several hundred dollars.

This is especially a great idea if you don’t currently own a suit but have a bunch of weddings or job interviews coming up. In some cases, a quick trip to a tailor can transform a cheap thrift store purchase into a sharp and classy fit.

Winter Coats

Winter coats are sold in large numbers at thrift stores, so if you see one you like, get it! Winter coats can be pricey when sold new, especially if they’re made by a great brand with thick materials. You could find nice warm overcoats and duffle coats for a great rate.