How to Spot Quality Clothes When Shopping Secondhand

Shopping at consignment stores is a great way to find high-quality, designer clothing at affordable prices. But how do you navigate the racks and piles of clothing to find those top-notch hidden gems? In this article, we’ll give you some of our favorite tips to spot quality clothes while shopping secondhand.

1. Go to a high-end consignment store.

The tips and tricks on this list will help you spot quality clothes and designer brands; however, you won’t even need these tips if you shop at a high-end and reputable consignment store like Current Boutique. Luxury consignment shops carry designer labels that are authenticated and clearly marked on their labels.

For example, at Current Boutique online, you’ll find the following information on each of our item’s web pages:

• Brand
• Condition (Excellent, New with Tags, Very Good, Good) – we don’t accept anything less than high quality!
• Size and measurements
• Color
• Material
• Key design elements, clasps, fixtures, and patterns

So, rather than trying to search for high-end pieces individually… Go to high-end consignment stores so you can be certain that all the clothing and accessories are top-notch quality.

2. Look for quality fabrics.

Check the item tag to see the fabric composition of the garment. High-quality and natural fabrics like silk, wool, and cotton will last longer – and they’re more sustainable. Synthetic materials are a lower quality and won’t last as long in your closet. (Synthetic materials might be the right option for certain types of clothing like swimwear and athletic wear.)

If there’s no clothing tag, how do you determine if a piece is made from high-quality fabric? Feel it. Does it feel smooth and soft? Has it retained its shape thus far? How does it look and feel on your body? Low-quality fabric will feel rough and scratchy and will not fall as naturally or comfortably on your body.

3. Look for designer labels.

Not all high-quality clothing is necessarily from a designer brand, but most designer clothes are high-quality. (That’s what separates design houses from fast fashion.) If you have a favorite or trusted designer, keep an eye out for their labels while shopping consignment.

If you’re a consignment connoisseur, you may want to research ahead of time to learn the ins and outs of different designers so you can more easily spot your favorite labels from afar.

Check out these 15 brands that sell best on consignment because of their reputation for quality products.

4. Look at the pattern.

If the clothing item is patterned, look at the design itself. The pattern should be evenly spaced and properly overlapping. The colors should be vibrant and clear. Fast fashion companies tend to have low-quality patterns that bleed and are misaligned. 

5. Check the seams.

The quality of the seams is a good indicator of the overall quality of the garment. You want straight, even seams that are securely stitched. Look for signs of pulling or missing stitches.

6. Examine the fasteners.

Buttons are one of the best indicators of the quality and luxury of a garment. Plastic, cheap-looking buttons are a surefire sign of a low-quality piece. But gorgeous, thick buttons like mother-of-pearl or wood tend to be found on luxury pieces.

Along with buttons, zippers are another mark of quality. Designer pieces will have metal zippers with sturdy, well-clasping teeth. Fast fashion pieces will likely have plastic zippers that easily break and pull apart. 

7. Check for wear and damage.

Some wear is expected with secondhand clothing. However, you want to keep an eye out for excessive wear or damage like stains, holes, pilling, or rips.

At Current Boutique, we know that our customers want the benefits of consignment shopping with the feel of buying something brand-new. That’s why we clearly mark the condition of each piece, so you know what kind of wear you can expect. (We never accept anything less than good condition!) 

8. Check the lining.

Most clothes have multiple layers of fabric. Turn the garment inside out to check the seams and lining. The interior lining should be comfortable, soft, and securely attached to the external shell.

9. Try it on.

High-quality clothes are made with fit and finish in mind. So, try the garments on if you’re buying in-store. See how the silhouette looks and feels while you’re wearing it. This will give you a good idea of its quality and if it’s worth having in your closet.   

10. Check for authenticity. 

If you’re buying a top-notch designer or vintage piece, inquire about authenticity. At Current Boutique, we have an authenticity promise, and we try to provide certification whenever possible. It’s not always available, but we have knowledgeable designers on staff to ensure we only sell genuine, authentic pieces.  

11. Ask the staff. 

If you’re unsure about the quality or brand of a particular garment, ask the store staff. Our staff at Current Boutique would love to help. We’re fashionistas who adore what we do! We take pride in selecting curated luxury, quality pieces – at a reasonable price.