Thrifting handbags are a perfect way to add statement pieces to your wardrobe.

Handbags can be a hit or a miss at thrift shops. You can find unique bags, vintage bags, and even a few designer items.

Here are five tips on how to thrift handbags in 2024:

Location matters

When finding good brands and quality handbags the location of thrift matters.

I typically thrift in metro Detroit for my handbags at shops like Value World, Volunteers of America, and The Salvation Army.

The location matters when it comes to thrifting because some areas carry more quality handbags from designers like Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade and Coach. While other locations carry more retro, vintage-style bags.

Know what you’re looking for

My biggest thrift tip no matter what you’re thrifting for is to know what you’re looking for.

Having an idea of what style of handbag, color, and brand is a great way to narrow down your search.

What to look for :

• Luxury designer handbags
• Retro bags
• Unique bag shapes
• Leather bags

Check for quality

Before you leave every thrift store, make sure to check out the bag for quality.

I typically do not buy faux or vegan leathers at the thrift because they’re not as durable as real leather like cowhide.

Make sure to check out the tag and the type of material it is.

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Look out for damages

Ensure you also check to see if the bag is tearing, too stained, or has rips at the seams.

If the bag has too many defects or shows usage, I do not buy it. No matter how cute it is… sadly. However, if you know how to repair handbags, you may be able to fix them!

Clean the bag

Before you wear your thrift bag out in public, make sure to clean your bag.

I don’t throw my bags in the washer but using soap and water plus a washcloth usually helps.

Sometimes I even wash it down extra with a disinfecting wipe, Lysol spray, and just a few cleaning supplies.

Check out my blog post featuring the top 5 outfits from February.