Sustainable fashion should be at the forefront of our collective consciousness every day. We’re seeing vintage fashion pop up everywhere in, well, pop culture, with celebrities including Zendaya, Olivia Rodrigo and Millie Bobby Brown regularly appearing on red carpets wearing iconic throwback ’fits (you know, from the archives). But the thrill of wearing treasures from the past is not a new phenomenon—it’s something devout style thrifters have been on to for decades.
In recent years, a passion for pre-loved fashion and décor pieces has fuelled the rise of buzzy, social media-led businesses where stylish thrifters sell their finds. And, what often begins as a side hustle can morph into a lucrative full-time gig.
“Getting into reselling is a labour of love,” says Katie Brennan, who has been selling thrifted finds since 2020. “Don’t do it for the money, do it for the love of thrifting and sustainability. Success will follow. I started off small and sold items I truly loved instead of just looking at brand names.”
We chatted with Brennan and three other style-savvy Canadian thrifters to get the tea on their top shopping strategies, their favourite pre-loved scores and best practices for turning your thrifting passion into a profitable business. —Alison McGill
Katie Brennan
Thrifting specialty: “I create thoughtfully curated collections, which are released weekly. I painstakingly handpick every item and organize pieces into a cohesive theme so the items can be seamlessly styled together. I style everything I sell and model them on myself (or my mom) and post on Instagram. I provide multiple styling ideas to help envision how the piece might be incorporated into your wardrobe.”
On the secondhand stigma: “There is still a bit of a negative vibe out there surrounding shopping secondhand, but I’m slowly seeing a positive shift. It makes me so happy to see teenagers at the thrift stores. The impact of fast-fashion waste on the environment is detrimental. Of the 100 billion garments produced each year, 92 million tonnes end up in landfills; we desperately need everyone to start accepting pre-loved as a viable option.”
Favourite finds: “A mint condition, 1960s Roncelli navy metal studded jacket I found and sold. I also recently thrifted an ’80s Chanel boucle tweed skirt—my jaw dropped when I found it!”
Top thrifting tip: “Have patience. Thrifting is all about luck and timing. You must shop frequently and take your time combing through the racks. Find out when your local store restocks and plan to visit then.”
Kelsey Dech
Thrift speciality: “It shifts from season to season, but my customers always seem to love the purses and shoes I source.”
On how thrifting shapes personal style: “Gen Z really values individuality and thrifting very much encourages celebrating that. With thrifted finds you can access so many unique pieces, aesthetics and price points. This generation is also one that has prioritized sustainability and doing better for the environment.”
Favourite finds: “About a year ago I found a Burberry coat and sold it—I was so excited to find such an incredible piece. I am holding on a to a few special items I’ve yet to sell, including a pair of Givenchy loafers and Prada heels.”
Top thrifting tip: “At the risk of sounding obvious, go often! Thrift store inventory changes over quite quickly—I try to pop into a few at least once a week. Also, join your local thrift store newsletter list to stay on top of sales and discount days.”
Madelyn Kriese
Thrift specialty: “My clients love my custom style bundles. I will try to find whatever is on your inspiration board. My audience also loves my rapid-fire ‘Thrift With Me’ vlogs, and my ‘Trying Everything Thrift Store in Toronto So You Don’t Have To’ series, which has become something of an underground city guide.”
On the mindfulness of thrift shopping: “With micro-trends, people are desperate to create a personalised style and find pieces that are going to last more than two months before the next ‘core’ hits. Thrifting prompts us to want timeless, long-lasting pieces. We need to re-use items we already have on this planet.”
Favourite finds: “An Allude cashmere sweater, Louboutin shoes and Chanel loafers, which sell new for $1,500 and I paid $20 for. In a time when existing is more expensive than ever, thrifting provides incredible pinch-me moments.”
Top thrifting tip: “Trust your taste and stay true to your eye. If you want to be a reseller, remember: clients aren’t just purchasing clothing, they are investing in your vision. The moment you begin chasing what you think might sell rather than what genuinely excites you is when your authenticity disappears.”
Hailey Porter
Thrifting speciality: “Home goods and wearables. I have a knack for finding great entertaining items, fanciful home décor, quality clothing and accessories. By not focusing on one category, I keep things fresh for my buyers who are a global community—the furthest I’ve shipped is to Italy and Australia.”
On the positive impact of thrifting: “In the six years I’ve had my business, it’s been incredible to observe the rise in the interest of thrifting. I love that the popularity of secondhand consumerism has directly influenced major trends and encouraged people to spend in their own communities.”
Favourite finds: “A glass hammer, which was so novel. One-of-a-kind porcelain chess pieces made to look like mice. A cowhide lined motorcycle jacket which I found on a $10 rack—it was a beautiful piece I sold for much more, but the buyer still felt like they were getting a bargain.”
Top thrifting tip: “Create a list on your phone of the things you want. Some stores feel overwhelming, and a list keeps you on track. Always be kind and build a relationship with shop employees, and you will be sure to earn a bonus discount or two.”
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