How to choose the right second-hand clothes without getting ripped off

Buying secondhand clothes has become much more than a trend. It's a way to consume responsibly, dress stylishly, and find clothes that are no longer manufactured. But if you've ever been to a flea market or a vintage shop, you know that not everything you see is worth it .

And that's the trick: knowing how to look .
Because among piles of clothes, mixed labels, and tempting prices, there are treasures… and disappointments too. At Premium Vintage Wholesale , after reviewing thousands of kilos of clothing each year, we can assure you that there are details that make all the difference .

If you want to make the right choice when buying second-hand clothes (whether vintage or simply used), pay attention to the following.

How to avoid mistakes when buying second-hand clothes

The goal is simple: to find clothes in good condition, authentic, and that will last . To do that, you need to know what to look for… and also what not to look for.

1. Check the actual condition of the clothes (not just what they look like)

First impressions can be deceiving. A jacket may look immaculate on the hanger, but have hidden stains on the cuffs or wear on the elbows.
So, take a few seconds to inspect it carefully : look at the inside, the seams, the hem, and the lining. If you see pilling, fading, or holes, consider whether it can be repaired. Sometimes a small defect doesn't matter, but other times it's not worth it.

If you're just starting out, check out our article on How to tell if a second-hand garment is real or fake . It will help you recognize quality materials and finishes.

2. Check the seams, zippers, and buttons

This separates the clothes that will last for years from those that will fall apart after the third wash. Good stitching is straight, firm, and without loose threads. Zippers should go up and down smoothly without getting stuck, and buttons should be securely sewn on, not on the verge of coming loose.
In the world of vintage, metal zippers and engraved buttons are usually good signs of authenticity and quality .

3. Don't ignore the smell or feel of the fabric

Yes, smell matters too. Clothes stored for a long time can smell musty or damp, but that usually goes away with a good wash. What you should worry about is a moldy or strong chemical smell: this usually indicates improper storage or harsh treatments.

And feel the fabric. You can tell the quality by touch. If it's synthetic and lightweight but the style looks "old-fashioned," it's probably not vintage but a recent imitation. Over time, you'll learn to tell the difference just by running your hand over it.

4. Look at the brand, the label, and the details

Labels tell stories. They don't just tell you the brand: they tell you what era the garment is from, where it was made, and its quality . If you buy vintage clothing, this is key.
Some brands stopped manufacturing in certain countries decades ago, and that helps identify whether a piece is original or a modern reissue.

If you're interested in this topic, you can read our article on the differences between vintage and second-hand clothing, which will help you understand when something is truly worth its price.

Furthermore, don't just focus on the brand. Look at the small details: the embroidery, the patches, the closures, the interior finishes. All of that separates an authentic piece from a soulless copy.

5. Check the size (and don't rely on the label)

A very common pitfall: old sizes don't correspond to current ones. A "M" from the 90s could very well be a "S" today.
That's why it's best to try on or compare measurements before buying. It's usually more difficult at flea markets, but if you have the option, measure from shoulder to shoulder or waist to get an idea.

And if you buy clothes by the kilo or wholesale, as we do at Premium Vintage Wholesale , it's always a good idea to look for adaptable pieces , with classic or unisex cuts that fit different body types better.

6. Don't buy on impulse: shop calmly.

The best trick for finding really good second-hand clothes is one: patience .
Looking carefully is key, because the best pieces aren't always immediately obvious. Search, touch, compare. Don't settle for the first thing you like if you're not sure.

In flea markets or vintage shops, what matters is not the quantity, but the quality of what you choose . You'll learn over time to distinguish what's worthwhile from what isn't.

7. If it's vintage clothing, look for authenticity.

Not everything old is vintage. Vintage has history, identity, and a noticeable quality. Look at the cut, the type of fabric, the label, and the details characteristic of its era.
A Champion sweatshirt from the 90s is not the same as a modern replica, nor does an old Levi's jacket have the same shade of denim as current ones.

At Premium Vintage Wholesale we select each piece precisely for that reason: because vintage is not improvised, it is recognized .

Where to find quality (and worthwhile) secondhand clothes

Finding second-hand clothes in good condition is a matter of practice, but also of trusting the right places.
Street markets are ideal for free browsing, but if you're looking for security and quality, go to specialized shops or suppliers .

At Premium Vintage Wholesale , we check each garment by hand before putting it up for sale or including it in our lots of vintage clothing by the kilo .
This way we ensure that what reaches you is not just used clothing, but clothing that still has life, style and authenticity .