2024 Top Sellers and What Is Trending Upwards in 2025
As we close the books on 2024, it’s clear that the secondhand clothing industry continues to grow at an incredible pace. This year has mirrored broader trends in consumer behavior, with more people embracing the sustainability and individuality that comes with buying secondhand clothing. The numbers don’t lie: thrifting is no longer just a niche activity; it’s a mainstay in the fashion world.
The end of the year is an important time for reflection. It allows us to analyze what performed well and to identify the categories that are primed for further growth in 2025. As one of America’s leading vintage clothing resellers, Thrift Vintage Fashion has a unique vantage point on what is selling across the country. Serving thousands of resellers—from small independent sellers to large-scale operations—provides us with invaluable data and insights into consumer demand. Here’s what the numbers tell us about 2024 and what’s trending upwards for 2025.
2024 Top Sellers
This year saw strong performance across several timeless categories. These are the staples of the vintage clothing world, and their popularity continues to dominate:
- Rock and Music Tees: Band and concert tees remain iconic, tapping into nostalgia and the universal appeal of music culture. Fans of both vintage and modern styles consistently gravitate toward these tees for their cultural significance and edgy aesthetics.
- Vintage Tees: The demand for soft, perfectly worn-in vintage t-shirts continues to soar, with buyers drawn to unique graphics and the story behind each piece. They are not only a wardrobe staple but a canvas for self-expression.
- Modern Tees: Simplicity sells, and Modern tees—perfect for layering or everyday wear—were a consistent favorite among buyers. Their affordability and versatility make them a reliable choice for resellers.
- Denim Jackets: A perennial classic, denim jackets never go out of style and remain a go-to for customers seeking versatility and timeless appeal. Their adaptability to both casual and chic looks keeps them in high demand.
- Levi’s and Wrangler Jeans: Vintage denim is a cornerstone of secondhand fashion, and these iconic brands continue to reign supreme. Their durability, perfect fit, and authentic heritage are key drivers of their ongoing popularity.
- Harley Davidson: The timeless appeal of Harley Davidson apparel ensures its place as a top-seller, beloved for its edge and authenticity. These pieces speak to individuality and a rebellious spirit.
- College and University Sweatshirts: Nostalgic and comfortable, these sweatshirts tap into both vintage style and a love for alma maters and classic collegiate aesthetics. They evoke a sense of connection and pride that resonates with a broad audience.
These categories are tried-and-true favorites, and their steady demand over the years—including our 10+ years in the business—speaks to their timeless nature. If you’re a reseller looking to stock items that consistently move, these are the categories to focus on.
2025 Trends to Watch
As we look ahead to 2025, a few categories stand out for their notable increases in demand. While some are enduring classics, others represent shifting consumer tastes and new opportunities for resellers to diversify their offerings.
- Denim and Flannels: While these categories are vintage staples, we’re seeing a year-over-year uptick in demand. Denim—from jackets to jeans—remains a customer favorite for its durability and timeless appeal. Flannels, with their cozy and versatile vibe, continue to perform strongly, especially as layering pieces become a bigger part of fashion trends. Whether worn open over graphic tees or buttoned up for warmth, flannels are the perfect blend of function and fashion.
- Modern Mixes: We’ve seen a growing interest in modern, affordable secondhand items. Resellers are increasingly looking to diversify their inventory with everyday essentials that cater to a broader audience. These pieces make vintage shopping more accessible for customers seeking practicality alongside style. Modern mixes, with their variety of casual staples, reflect the growing demand for affordability in the sustainable fashion movement.
- Y2K Styles: The early 2000s revival is in full swing. From low-rise denim to baby tees and bold graphic prints, Y2K-inspired styles are trending upward as younger buyers embrace this nostalgic era. This trend speaks to Gen Z’s fascination with reinterpreting past decades in a fresh, playful way, making it a must-watch category for resellers.
- Carhartt: The brand’s enduring popularity continues into 2025. Carhartt’s blend of functionality and streetwear appeal has kept it relevant, with its iconic workwear pieces being as coveted as ever. From overalls to jackets, Carhartt balances rugged durability with a fashion-forward edge that resonates with both traditional fans and streetwear enthusiasts.
A Look at Regional Insights
Our nationwide reach gives us a unique perspective on regional trends. In urban hubs like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, streetwear-focused categories such as graphic tees and Carhartt continue to dominate. Meanwhile, in college towns and suburban areas, nostalgic pieces like university sweatshirts and flannels see higher demand. Understanding these regional nuances can help resellers tailor their offerings to better match local preferences.
Closing Thoughts
The vintage clothing industry shows no signs of slowing down. As consumers continue to prioritize sustainability, individuality, and affordability, secondhand fashion is positioned for even greater growth in the coming years. At Thrift Vintage Fashion, we’re proud to play a role in this movement, offering high-quality vintage clothing across dozens of categories to resellers nationwide. Whether you’re stocking staples like denim and tees or branching out into trending styles like Y2K fashion, our curated bundles and extensive selection are designed to help you succeed.
The end of 2024 offers an exciting opportunity to reflect and plan for the future. As trends shift and demand grows, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Here’s to another year of growth, innovation, and making secondhand fashion more accessible to all. We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings for the world of vintage fashion—and we’re here to help you every step of the way.