8 Thrift Store Finds That Resellers Never Pass Up

Original Artwork

As more people steer clear of big-box art found at large retailers, there’s been an uptick in the art secondhand market. “Original pieces of art may actually be worth big bucks,” says Dani Dudek, a thrifting expert. “You know they’re original if items are signed and dated and use real oils and paints.” Look closely to see if there’s any pixelation (sign of a reprint) and if there’s real texture from brush strokes. 

Vintage Coach Bags

Anything with a brand name is a hot target for resellers, but there’s a special allure to vintage Coach bags (like the one pictured above) right now. "They’ve become a sought-after item for two reasons," explains founder of The Grumpy Fashionista, PJ Gach, "Coach’s resurgence in the public eye as a must-have item, and vintage ‘80s and ‘90s Coach bags have gone viral on TikTok."

Real leather and quality ensure these bags stand the test of time, too. "People now want anything Coach, no matter the year, and they can sell for double the original price," shares Gach.

Limited-Edition Sneakers

Sneakerheads are pushing the profit margins on this reseller’s dream find. And yes, believe it or not, you can find these elusive scores at thrift shops. “Resellers regard these sneakers highly, due to the consistent demand from enthusiasts who are willing to purchase designer or limited-edition collaboration footwear at premium prices,” Gach explains.

“A pair of used Gucci sneakers—like the Gucci Re-Web Sneaker GG that can be found at a thrift store for $30 or $50—could be resold on a sneaker reselling site for $800+ if in perfect condition.” 

High-End Seasonal Décor

For the thrifter who loves holiday theme decorating and has a keen eye for it, any seasonal décor is always worth inspecting. “Usually that area is chock-a-block with some decent maker names, styles, and even antique pieces that are sure winners for décor resellers,” says Nora Curl, appraisal expert with JustAnswer.

“Christmas figurals by Lenox have a collector market, and the popular Christmas tree china pattern by Spode is iconic and eye-catching,” she says. Some other finds Curl calls out include vintage 1950s aluminum tinsel Christmas trees, silver mercury glass, and multicolored Shiny Brite hanging ornaments, and Halloween blow molds. 

Designer Clothing and Accessories

For the clothing and accessories resellers, a quick search of the handbags and purse section means looking for affordable luxury brand names such as Michael Kors, Dooney and Bourke, Ralph Lauren, Staud, Kate Spade, and Tory Burch—just to name a few. “With a large swathe of accessible luxury brand names, the chances are good that one of those makers might be in the thrift pile,” Curl says. 

Scandinavian Furniture and Décor

Scandi décor is a timeless aesthetic, and some of the big-name designers are ultra covet-worthy in the design space. For example, Arne Jacobsen’s iconic Egg Chair, Alvar Aalto’s bentwood stools, Hans Wegner’s wishbone chair (shown above), and Greta Grossman’s Grasshopper Lamp.

“Although minimalist, Scandi designs are well-made and often feature details you won’t usually find in modern mass-produced items,” Dudek explains. “I keep an eye out for Dutch ceramics and tableware, Nordic folk designs in wood, cross-stitch and crochet table runners, and cloths and napkins. Most of these pieces are truly timeless.” 

Y2K Nostalgia

Clothing, home décor, and accessories from the late ‘90s and early ‘00s are a hot find right now, and resellers will scoop them up for a nice return on their spend.

“This has been popular with resellers and shoppers alike for a few years now,” Gach says. “Walk into any store, and you’ll find new clothing styled like when Backstreet Boys were at the height of their fame. Any original item from that era could get premium pricing on reseller sites.” 

Luxury Outerwear

Another quick yet potentially profitable area resellers always check is jackets and coats. “Most of us own a closet full of coats kept over a course of decades, and estate donations tend to be heavy on giving lots of those to thrift stores,” Curl says. 

"Sure winners are Burberry, Brooks Brothers, and any vintage piece made from 100% cashmere," notes Curl. "Coats are not rare, but they are a thrifters low-hanging fruit because they are easily recognized and resold."