Your Guide to Scoring the Best Secondhand Finds Online

Thrifting has come a long way from digging through racks, and Gen Z and Gen Alpha are the ones driving the shift. What used to be a rare thrift store outing has turned into a full-on lifestyle, with apps like Depop, Poshmark, Vinted, ThredUp, and The RealReal making it easy to shop resale from your phone.

We love this shift for so many reasons: you can find truly unique pieces you won’t see on everyone else, the prices are often way more reasonable than buying new, and it’s a small but meaningful way to shop more sustainably.

Each platform brings something a little different to the table and we’re breaking what each platform does best, and a few tips for making the most of your secondhand search.

Where to Shop

Depop: Best for trend-driven and Y2K-inspired pieces. Depop has a younger, style-forward community, so it’s a great spot for statement pieces, vintage band tees, and anything a little more curated.

Poshmark: Best for everyday variety. From workwear to weekend basics, Poshmark has a huge range of sizes, brands, and price points, plus a social, community-driven shopping experience.

Vinted: Best for budget-friendly finds. Vinted stands out for having no seller fees, which often means better prices for buyers, along with an easy-to-use search and filter system.

ThredUp: Best for everyday basics and quick refreshes. ThredUp pre-sorts and categorizes items, making it one of the easier platforms to shop quickly without digging through endless listings.

The RealReal: Best for authenticated luxury. If you’re searching for designer bags, shoes, or accessories, The RealReal verifies authenticity, so you can shop higher end pieces with confidence.

A Few Tips for Shopping Secondhand

• Know your measurements. Sizing varies a lot between brands and eras, so having your own measurements handy makes shopping much easier.
• Read seller reviews and ratings before purchasing, especially for higher priced items.
• Search specific brand names or keywords rather than browsing generally, it’ll save you time and surface better matches.
• Read the full product description, including measurements, condition notes, and any flaws the seller mentions.
• Check return policies, since they vary widely by platform and by seller.