Finding Quality Brands at Secondhand Shops

Thrifting, but Make It Premium

There’s something thrilling about walking into a secondhand shop and unearthing a hidden gem—a £300 coat for a tenner, a designer dress buried beneath polyester blouses, or a leather bag that’s only gotten better with age. But what separates a lucky find from a strategic one? Knowing which thrift shopping brands to look for.

Whether you’re building a sustainable wardrobe, searching for high-quality basics, or hunting down premium secondhand picks, this guide will help you navigate your next thrift trip with confidence. We’ll show you how to spot the best thrift labels, understand the value behind the tags, and make sure you’re not just buying secondhand, but buying smart.

Because when you know what quality looks like, every charity shop becomes a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Why Knowing Your Labels Matters in Thrifting

1. Quality Over Quantity

Fast fashion pieces may dominate thrift rails, but they’re not built to last. Recognising higher-end or well-made labels means you can:

• Avoid pilled, stretched-out, or misshapen garments
• Choose pieces with superior stitching and fabric
• Build a wardrobe that stays sharp for years, not just weeks

2. Bigger Savings on Better Buys

Finding a Massimo Dutti wool coat or a pair of Levi’s 501s for under £15? That’s not just a win — it’s luxury at a steal. Familiarity with premium labels lets you spot incredible deals others might pass over.

3. Sustainability Without Sacrifice

You’re not compromising on style or comfort — you’re choosing pieces that have stood the test of time, both in quality and trend.

What Makes a Thrifted Brand ‘Quality’?

Not all expensive brands are created equal. Look beyond the price tag and focus on:

• Fabric: Natural fibres like cotton, linen, wool, or silk
• Craftsmanship: Strong seams, lined garments, metal zips
• Timeless Cuts: Items that won’t date in a season
• Reputation: Brands known for quality and ethical production

Best High-Street Brands to Look For

1. COS

Known for minimalist designs and durable fabrics, COS (a H&M sister brand) offers premium-feeling basics, structured dresses, and well-cut trousers that hold up brilliantly over time.

2. & Other Stories

Another from the H&M family, but elevated in style and build. Look for silk blouses, leather boots, and statement coats.

3. Whistles

A go-to for sleek tailoring and fashion-forward prints. Thrifted Whistles pieces feel timeless and typically come in strong fabrics like wool and cotton blends.

4. Hobbs

A goldmine for formalwear and tailored office looks. Often made in the UK, Hobbs dresses and coats wear well and age beautifully.

5. Jigsaw

High-quality basics and outerwear with a British chic touch. Their items are built to last and often crafted from better-than-average materials.

Premium Labels That Often Slip Through Undetected

1. Joseph

Known for its luxury basics and minimalist tailoring, Joseph items are expensive new but sometimes fly under the radar secondhand.

2. Reiss

A mix of contemporary polish and classic cuts. Their blazers, silk tops, and dresses are top finds.

3. AllSaints

Leather jackets, knitwear, and boots are where this brand shines. Their edgy but wearable vibe makes for highly sought-after thrift finds.

4. Levi’s

A must-grab when it comes to denim. Look for vintage 501s, wedgie styles, and made-in-USA tags for better builds.

5. Barbour

Though rare, a Barbour wax jacket or quilted coat secondhand is pure gold, and repairs can extend their life even further.

Luxury Designer Labels You Can Actually Find

Yes, it happens. Not every designer item ends up in a boutique resale shop. Some still turn up in local charity shops, especially in affluent neighbourhoods or donation drives.

Keep your eyes peeled for:

• Burberry (trench coats and scarves)
• Aquascutum (classic British outerwear)
• Max Mara (wool coats)
• Armani (tailoring)
• Mulberry (bags and belts)

Even if the condition isn’t perfect, many designer items are repairable or restyle-ready.

Want to sharpen your eye further? Read how to spot greenwashing in fashion brands to make sure you’re supporting brands that actually deliver on quality and ethics.

What to Watch For: Spotting Authenticity

Check the Labels

• Proper spelling and placement
• Fabric composition listed
• Country of origin
• Size tags that match brand standards

Look at the Construction

• Does it feel sturdy? Lined? Heavy?
• Are the buttons and zips metal or plastic?
• Is there visible stitching or loose threads?

Google Before You Buy

If you’re unsure, quickly search the label and compare it with product photos online. Apps like “Vestiaire Collective” or “Depop” can help you gauge resale value and authenticity.

Beyond the Big Names: Independent and Ethical Brands to Know

The rise of sustainable fashion means more ethical brands are producing high-quality, durable clothes, which often appear in secondhand shops.

Look out for:

• People Tree
• Komodo
• Seasalt Cornwall
• Thought Clothing
• Nudie Jeans

These brands may not shout luxury, but their eco-conscious materials and construction standards make them some of the best thrift labels out there.

Want to turn one of these into a full outfit? Learn how to mix modern pieces with thrifted classics for an effortlessly updated style.

Top Tips for Hunting Quality Brands While Thrifting

1. Go Often and Browse Slowly

New stock arrives frequently, and the best finds often aren’t obvious. Take your time, look through every rack, and inspect labels.

2. Visit Charity Shops in Affluent Areas

Higher-income areas tend to receive donations of premium and designer goods more often — it’s not a hard rule, but it does boost your odds.

3. Don’t Be Put Off by Sizing

Vintage and brand sizing vary widely. Use measurements over labels, and don’t skip men’s sections for oversized staples like coats or knits.

4. Learn to Spot Quality by Feel

Over time, your fingers will learn to recognise silk from polyester and wool from acrylic. Trust your senses — if it feels luxe, it usually is.

5. Be Ready to Alter

If you find a high-quality piece that’s slightly off in fit, it might still be worth it. Tailoring small adjustments like hems or waistlines can make all the difference.

Caring for Your Thrifted Treasures

To extend the life of your quality finds:

• Wash sparingly — especially for wool, silk, and denim
• Use gentle, eco-friendly detergents
• Air dry or steam instead of ironing
• Store correctly — use padded hangers and garment bags for delicate items

Many high-end labels include care tags — follow them for best results.

Conclusion: Style Smarter, Not Harder

Finding quality brands at secondhand shops isn’t about luck — it’s about strategy, knowledge, and a little bit of practice. When you know what to look for, you can build a wardrobe full of premium secondhand picks that reflect your style, respect your budget, and align with your values.

From timeless Jigsaw coats to rare designer jackets, charity shops and thrift stores are brimming with opportunity. All it takes is curiosity, consistency, and the confidence to shop with intention.

So next time you’re out thrifting, look past the rails of fast fashion — and spot the label that makes it all worthwhile.