Before You Fall for the Label, Turn It Inside Out

The label is flirting with you. Very nice. Turn the thing inside out.

Secondhand shopping gets much more useful when the question changes from “Was this expensive once?” to “Will I actually enjoy wearing it?” Here’s the small inspection I’d build around that question.

Start with the fabric

Look in decent light. Check the underarms, cuffs and areas that rub. Hold the fabric gently up to the light to spot thinning or tiny holes. A little surface wear may be fine; a fragile patch where you need strength deserves a second thought.

Give the seams a minute

Look for loose stitching, open seams and a lining pulling away from the outer fabric. Try the buttons, snaps and zipper without forcing them. A missing button and a complicated zipper replacement are very different projects, even if the price tags match.

Move in it

Sit, reach and raise your arms if the shop allows a fitting. Pay attention to where it pulls. Size labels from different brands and eras can be wildly unhelpful, so give the garment on your body the deciding vote.

Count the work honestly

Read the care label. Think about cleaning, repairs and alterations before you call it a bargain. If you would need a tailor, ask for a quote rather than guessing. A low purchase price can come with an enthusiastic supporting cast of expenses.

Then ask the fun question: what do I already own that makes this feel like me? You don’t need a complete imaginary future wardrobe to justify one good find. You need something you’ll reach for when it’s time to get dressed.

Illustrative thrift-store clothing-rack photograph by cottonbro studio / Pexels. Image source.

Written by Leah