Thrifting has surged in popularity, especially with the revival of Y2K and '90s fashion trends. However, the sea of options can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for beginners trying to differentiate between what's genuinely vintage and what's a modern recreation. To help you navigate this, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite brands to look for when thrifting. These brands not only guarantee the authenticity of the vintage pieces but also promise style and quality that stands the test of time.
Starting with Union Bay
Founded in 1983, Union Bay quickly made a name for itself. While I’m not entirely sure what their pieces looked like in their inception years, I’ve come across some gems that are worth mentioning. For instance, a cropped tee with a quirky graphic that feels reminiscent of Tommy Hilfiger or Ralph Lauren’s graphic tees. Their denim work, particularly, stands out. I recently snagged a pair of jeans that, while they were in the children’s section, fit perfectly. Union Bay’s denim has unique features such as carpenter jean essentials and distinctive logos, making them easy to spot and a thrill to find.
The Gothic Appeal of Lip Service
For those who have a soft spot for gothic styles, Lip Service is a treasure trove of vintage finds. Established as a cornerstone of gothic and edgy fashion from the '90s into the 2000s, Lip Service pieces are identifiable by their vine-like lettering tags. I personally adore their stretch brocade materials. Even more fascinating is the archive available online showcasing all of Lip Service magazines - a goldmine for inspiration.
A Dive into the World of Amy Byer
Amy Byer, or variations like A. Byer and Byer California, represents a brand cluster known for its dresses and skirts that catered to a more feminine aesthetic. With labels fairly easy to recognize, thanks to their black on white lettering, these pieces scream vintage charm. Whether it’s a puff-up dress reminiscent of gunnysack dresses or a classic black mini skirt, Amy Byer's pieces are an embodiment of quality and timeless style.
The Casual Elegance of Rampage
Rampage, a brand that kicked off in the early '80s, is perfect for those seeking casual yet elegantly styled pieces. While their tags have evolved over the years, the earlier pieces from the '90s stand out for their simplicity and charm. The sub-brand R-Wear, in particular, boasts more distinctive logos that are easier to identify.
Discovering City Triangles
City Triangles emerged in the '90s, creating dresses that flatter the body with beautiful silhouettes characteristic of the era. Their pieces are easily identifiable by the cute and simplistic tags featuring the brand name and little triangles. If you're ever struggling at the thrift store, bundles from thrifting veterans can be a saving grace, offering handpicked treasures from brands like City Triangles at a great price.
Limited Gems and Express Classics
The Limited, a brand with a long history starting in the '60s, has had its highs and lows. Despite its bankruptcy in 2017, vintage pieces from The Limited can elevate any wardrobe with items like sheer organza blouses. Similarly, Express, a brand that is still operational, offers vintage wear that captures the essence of earlier fashion trends. Its vintage pieces are distinguishable by the notable Express logo on the tags.
Finesse USA: The '90s Icon
Finesse USA carved its niche in the '90s with its unique style of dresses, identifiable by their elastic shiny piping. Though the brand's tags are on the smaller side, the craftsmanship and design speak volumes to its era, offering a slice of the '90s to enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Thrifting is not just about finding vintage pieces; it's about rediscovering history through fashion. Brands like Union Bay, Lip Service, Amy Byer, Rampage, City Triangles, The Limited, Express, and Finesse USA each tell a story of their time, offering both quality and style. Whether you are new to thrifting or an experienced thrifter, keeping these brands in mind on your next thrift trip could lead you to uncover hidden gems that add uniqueness and charm to your wardrobe. Stay positive, stay safe, and happy thrifting!
