Do you love designer clothing but your bank account doesn’t share the same feelings? I get it, affording the brands we love like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, or Chanel often feels out of reach. But what if I told you that acquiring those coveted designer pieces might be possible, and way easier than you think, by getting thrift store designer clothes?

I’ve personally always loved thrifting at my local City Thrift, finding a treasure among the many discarded clothes is fulfilling. The great thing too is that all of their proceeds benefit the City Union Mission, a wonderful non-profit doing great in the local community. Buying used items is a responsible thing to do for society, and designer clothes are a great example.

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The Advantages Of Designer Clothes From Thrift Stores

Thrift stores offer several benefits over conventional shopping. By buying these pre-loved pieces, you contribute to an economic system of more sustainable consumer practices.

A thrift store can be the perfect solution for designer clothes. You give high-end pieces another go at making someone truly feel like a million bucks.

The Price Is Right

It can be rare, but finding top-tier designer items at thrift stores can really give great cost savings. A Gucci bag that originally costs thousands might be discovered at places like City Thrift.

You’ll have far less anxiety by wearing clothes and accessories from consignment stores that would have otherwise made you fearful of taking them out in public. These places offer an affordable entry point into the world of luxury.

I once found a vintage Christian Dior silk skirt for a mere $2.00. I know from experience how thrilling it can feel to come across high fashion at affordable prices.

Supporting a Good Cause

City Thrift in Kansas City is more than just a place to find discounted designer goods. When you shop online with City Thrift, the proceeds help individuals and families in need.

City Union Mission helps all those dealing with homelessness. The Mission has a very special cause.

Sustainable Fashion Practices

Buying vintage clothing and luxury consignment supports the global slow fashion movement. Choosing pre-owned items reduces waste and promotes a circular economy.

The movement helps address major world problems such as pollution, climate change, and landfill overflows. Buying second-hand lessens demand for manufacturing new goods, contributing to a more sustainable future.

How To Increase The Chances Of Finding Thrift Store Designer Clothes

So, what does it really take to acquire high-end things from resale shops? I know some very smart things to watch for so that you too can buy high-quality designer items.

I know how to find these things with consistency. If you follow what I do, then so can you.

Always Watch The Fabrics

Pay very close attention to the fabrics. This small step can go a long way in increasing the possibility of purchasing premium designers.

This helps narrow what to look for in thrift stores and helps you focus on a more “curated selection.” Focusing on high-quality materials increases your chances of finding authentic designer pieces.

Here are the fabric types to target:

  • 100% Silk.
  • 100% Cotton.
  • 100% Cashmere.
  • 100% Wool.
  • 100% Leather.
  • 100% Ramie.
  • 100% Linen.
  • 100% Flax.

Natural materials and fibers have several advantages; here are a few. They’re gentle on the skin, they last longer, and they mix-and-match more effectively and consistently with the rest of your wardrobe.

The thrift store items are often high quality if made from any of the above materials.

Don’t Ever Buy For Price Alone

The deep discounts can be thrilling. It might tempt us to settle on clothes that we wouldn’t be willing to otherwise pay for if they cost way more.

I recommend staying focused on what we need, love, and truly complements other things in your collection. Otherwise, we take away that opportunity from someone else. Consider if the item aligns with your personal style and existing wardrobe.

What Sizes Are You Looking At?

Vintage styles sizing runs far different than modern sizing. It is a good practice to understand how vintage sizing works.

This may open you up to several other different sizing. Try many different options.

Does It Fit Your Other Clothes?

Consider a “capsule wardrobe.” Buy things you can pair with at least seven things in your wardrobe and ask yourself, does this item go well with anything?

Consider if the item can be styled in multiple ways, ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. Look at any small leather goods, fine jewelry, and men’s bags you are considering with a broad sense of styling in mind.

Circle And Look Closely

Look through each clothing section. Watch closely for distinctive fabrics and styling.

Let’s go through each rack, flipping slowly from the start to the end. This can really reveal the gems hiding among other “not as luxurious” materials. Look closely at the details of each item.

I remember I once discovered an item for work with a small hole and thought the whole item was ruined. A few months after I’d moved, I looked in a City Thrift and, to my great surprise, was able to purchase the exact same piece from them that very day. Remember the shopping experience should always be filled with looking closely.

The Game-Changer: Designer Authenticity Checks

How do you make sure something is authentic and truly is the designer that the label states? Don’t just take the tag at face value. Here’s how to determine for real if you’ve found your “Holy Grail.” Look at the details that only authentic pieces have.

This is one area where it helps to truly use your brain and put in some serious thought. Use resources and educate yourself.

Here is a comprehensive table of how to check each item:

Designer Item Things To Always Watch For
Bags (Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Bottega Veneta, etc.)
  • Stitching: High-end items always show perfect stitching. Check for any inconsistencies, loose threads, or unevenness.
  • Material Quality: Real leather will feel soft.
  • Hardware: High-quality zippers, clasps, and locks that will not feel lightweight.
  • Serial Numbers/Date Codes: Check codes here – #.
Clothing (Prada, Dior, Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, etc.)
  • Labels and Tags: Labels are a core focus point for luxury brands and many items. They have a label on both the garment itself and also within the inside pocket. Check this for details about the place of production.
  • Fabric Quality: Designer clothes should feel much better and more luxurious than non-designer ones.
  • Construction: Things such as seams, lining, and hems must look pristine.
Shoes (Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, etc.)
  • Sole: Christian Louboutin, the signature red sole must always appear a certain shade of vibrant red.
  • Craftsmanship: The build and construction must always feel refined.
  • Branding: Brands make their logos highly visible, very distinct.
Accessories (Jewelry like David Yurman and more)
  • Material: Designer watches should feel very heavy and solid.
  • Finish: Real items should feel very clean and sharp edges.
  • Markings: There should be distinct and detailed engravings such as the designer, the serial number, and where it’s from.

Also consider looking for evening bags, shoulder bags, and tote bags as well. Many different designer and vintage styles of bags can show up such as, satchel bags, hobo bags, and even bucket bags. You never know what kind of bags shop special finds will be discovered.

Many different designers might be available that were not even mentioned yet. You could find some Miu Miu, Dries Van Noten, or even Max Mara. Be sure to check out their designer directory.

Conclusion

Acquiring thrift store designer clothes is an approach that aligns your interests, needs, and societal impact. From deeply reduced costs to giving something a “second act,” thrifting helps contribute to an ecosystem of goodness. It’s a win-win situation for your wallet, your wardrobe, and the planet.

Next time you shop for high-end fashion, remember these concepts. You just may find a treasure trove of items by following them.

City Thrift is the perfect destination for getting high-quality thrift store designer clothes and benefiting a good cause. With a curated selection and authenticity guaranteed, you are sure to have an amazing shopping experience.