Thrifting has been something I’ve enjoyed for virtually my entire life and over the years, I’ve fine tuned the way I shop. I know what I’m looking for, what’s worth the price tag vs. what’s a good steal, things to avoid, and things to always consider. I’ve made a career out of this hobby and it brings me so much joy to write about thrifting in order to help you enjoy the experience even more. From great items to thrift to general tips, this guide to thrifting answers some of the most commonly asked questions I get on a daily basis.

Top Vintage and Thrifting Search Terms

These are search terms that I use when shopping online or on various apps including Etsy, Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Chairish and more. I shop every single day, either in person or online (or both!), so I have a very refined eye and can quickly spot gems even in a sea of 100s of listings. However, this list will help narrow down searches for you so you can train your eye, refine your search and start shopping like a pro. 

FASHION & ACCESSORIES KEY TERMS

Tip: use the term vintage, used, or antique in combination with these keywords! In this list, I’ve included general search terms alongside detailed search words. I’m a firm believer that the more detailed your search, the more specific results you will get, but if you’re not completely set on one kind of thing, general searches can also help your cause. Use the term vintage, used, or antique in combination with these keywords as it allows you to search for exactly what you want and keeps your searching time focused (trust me when I say, it’s easy to spend 2 hours just browsing!). For example, instead of searching “Moschino,” search for “vintage Moschino vest” to get those specific results. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, then swap out the item type to “Vintage Moschino blazer” and then expand your search from there.

1960s Mod Mini Dress
1930s Rayon Dress
Albert Nipon
Alfred Shaheen
Manolo Blahnik
Boho
Calico print
Cape
Carole Little
Celine
Chenille
Chiffon
Cigarette pants
Diane Von Furstenberg
Edwardian Blouse
Escada Shorts
Fringe/Tassel

Gauzy Cotton Geoffrey Beene
Gold Lame
Granny Square
Gunne Sax Dress
Halston
Hand Embroidered Jean Patou
Joseph Magnin Dress
Judith Ann
Judith Leiber
Silk Kimono
Laura Ashley
Lim’s Crochet
Lucite Box Bag
Mom Shorts
Moschino
Norma Kamali

Oscar de la Renta Set
Patchwork
Piano Shawl
Playsuit
Prairie
Ralph Lauren Crest
Razza Necklace
Rope Belt
Safari
Saks Fifth Avenue
Shell Earrings
Silk Bomber Jacket Silk Duster
Silk Nightgown
Silk Pajamas
Silk Robe
St. John Cardigan Tiered Ruffle Skirt

Twiggy Dress
Ungaro
Victor Costa
Wide Belt
YSL Rive Gauche

FURNITURE & DECOR KEY TERMS

Tip: use the term vintage, used or antique in combination with these key search terms below. When shopping for thrifted furniture, it’s likely that you’ll be looking for a particular piece of furniture or decor item, therefore your searches will be much more refined. If you’re new to vintage furniture,
I highly recommend going through and searching some of these key terms to get an idea of the aesthetic or style. This way, you’ll be able to hone in on what you like and don’t like. I’ve kept most of these search terms broad, but have included specific terms you should be searching for under a few. As with searching for clothing, use the term vintage, used, or antique in combination with these key search terms below.

1960s
Abstract Minimalist Art
Art Deco
Arts & Crafts
(not the activity, rather the movement)
Bamboo
Beni Ourain Rug
Brass
Burl Wood
Bust
Campaign Dress
Candlesticks
(brass, wood, ceramic, glass)
Chaise
Chenille
Chinoiserie
Chippendale
Chrome
Danish Teak
Drexel
Estagere
French

Gilded
Hollywood Regency
Granny Square
Handwoven
Henredon
Highback Chair
Ikebana Vase
Italian
Knoll
Lacquer
(look for this finish on dressers and tables)
Lucite
(tray, shelf, bookends, cart)
Marble
(ashtray, sphere, object)
Mastercraft
Mid Century Modern
Milo Baughman
Moroccan
Neoclassical
Oushak Rug
Pace Collection

Parsons Table
Pencil Reed
Rattan
Settee
Thayer
Thomasville
Sketch Nude
Weiman

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