Thrifting and secondhand shopping are my favorite ways to find high-quality, unique clothing while saving money and reducing waste. And when it comes to sweaters, secondhand shopping is even better – you get a sneak peek of how the fabric has held up over time.
Spring is a great time to look for sweaters because the seasons are about to change, and fewer people are searching for them as they anticipate warmer weather. That means you’ll often find great deals and a wider selection.
Here’s what I look for when hunting for the perfect secondhand sweater:
1. Look for Natural Fibers
The first thing I check? The fabric tag. Lately, I have been prioritizing natural fibers like cotton, linen and cashmere. Not only do they tend to be more breathable and longer-lasting than synthetic blends, they also are less likely to pill quickly, lose shape, or feel scratchy.
2. A Classic Shape and Neckline
Trendy pieces can be fun, but when it comes to sweaters, I like to stick to timeless shapes that look ageless. A good sweater shouldn’t tell you the exact year it was purchased, it should be versatile and easy to wear for years to come.
3. Inspect for Loose Threads and Pilling
A little pilling is normal, but excessive fuzziness or deep pilling can be a sign of poor fabric quality. A good fabric shaver can solve most of your pilling problems (Pro Tip: Buy a Sweater Shaver!), but if it looks overly worn, I usually pass.
4. Feel the Fabric—And Think Ahead
Softness is key, but I don’t just go by how it feels in the moment. I ask myself: Will this still feel cozy after a few washes, or will it turn dry, crispy, or scratchy? Some fabrics (especially cheap blends) feel nice at first but become stiff over time. If I’m unsure, I give the sweater a little stretch test—if it immediately loses shape, that’s a red flag.