Finding Value in Second Hand
Second hand, for me, has never really been about saving money. It’s about finding pieces with character, items that feel lived-in, slightly imperfect, and harder to come by. It’s about wearing something that not everyone else has, and slowly building a wardrobe that feels personal rather than trend-driven.
This week I’ve been digging through some of my favorite platforms like eBay, Vestiaire Collective, Depop and Grailed, looking for pieces that actually make sense in real life. Not just items that look good online, but clothes you end up wearing over and over again without forcing them into your rotation.
These are some of the pieces that stood out.
A colorful cap that sparks conversations (True Religion)
Caps are one of those accessories that can completely shift the feeling of an outfit when done right. This True Religion cap is colorful, bold, and slightly unexpected. It’s the kind of piece that doesn’t go unnoticed.
I like accessories like this because they add personality without much effort. You can wear a very simple outfit and suddenly there’s something that catches the eye. Second hand is often the only place to find these kinds of pieces, especially designs that brands no longer make and that don’t feel overly polished.
Polo Ralph Lauren, a classic making a strong comeback
Ralph Lauren never really disappeared, but it’s clear the brand is coming back into focus again. This blue polo is a good example of why now feels like the right moment to look for second hand Ralph Lauren.
The quality holds up, the designs are familiar without feeling tired, and once prices start rising again, it’ll be harder to find good pieces at reasonable levels. A polo like this works across situations, worn casually with denim or layered into something more structured. These are the kinds of staples that quietly carry a wardrobe.
→ Available at Vestiaire Collective
Vintage Adidas track jacket, a wardrobe essential
If you don’t own a vintage Adidas track jacket, it’s one of those pieces worth considering. It’s incredibly versatile and easy to integrate into different styles.
I’ve had mine for years and still wear it regularly. It works with casual outfits, slightly cleaner looks, and even layered when temperatures drop. The range of colors and fits makes it easy to find one that feels personal rather than generic.
Vivienne Westwood, simple but intentional
Some pieces don’t need to be loud to feel special. This Vivienne Westwood sweatshirt is clean, understated, and easy to wear, but still carries a clear identity.
It fits naturally into a wardrobe without trying to dominate an outfit. Second hand Vivienne Westwood often makes the most sense, as the quality and design remain strong while the price feels more grounded than buying new.
→ Available at Vestiaire Collective
Vintage racing t shirt, always reliable
A vintage racing t shirt is one of those items that rarely feels out of place. Strong graphics, softened colors, and that worn-in feel make them easy to reach for.
They add character without feeling styled. Thrown on with jeans or work pants, they bring something natural and familiar that works year-round.
Vintage belt, an underrated detail
Belts are often overlooked, but the right one can completely change how an outfit comes together. This black and silver vintage belt is a good example of how a small detail can add intention.
Second hand accessories often feel more interesting than new ones. The materials age better, and the designs tend to have more character than what’s commonly available today.
Vintage Levi’s flare jeans, not meant to blend in
Vintage Levi’s are always a safe place to start, especially when you’re looking for denim with personality. These flared, bell-bottom style jeans aren’t subtle, but that’s exactly the point.
They become the focus of the outfit and change how everything else is styled around them. They’re expressive, confident, and a reminder of why vintage denim continues to stand apart.
Dickies work pants, built to last
If you’ve owned a pair of Dickies, you know how reliable they are. These are trousers that work across situations, last for years, and sit outside seasonal trends.
They’re easy to wear, hard to wear out, and feel just as relevant now as they did decades ago. Finding them second hand only adds to their value.
This selection reflects the way I like to approach clothing overall. Adding something new works best when it’s done deliberately, not constantly. When one piece enters the wardrobe, it often means another one leaves, creating space rather than clutter.
Second hand encourages this mindset naturally. You’re more selective, more patient, and more aware of what you actually wear. Choosing well-made items, wearing them often, and letting them age with you feels like a quieter and more honest way to engage with fashion.
It’s not about having more. It’s about making better choices, building a wardrobe that evolves slowly, and appreciating pieces for how they fit into everyday life rather than how they perform for a moment online.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.