When we talk about second-hand clothes, we often hear these three terms: thrift shops, depot-vente and vide-dressing. But even though they all revolve around second-hand, they don't work quite the same way. We explain everything so you know where (and how) to get your best bargains 👇
👕 The thrift store: the temple of the bargain hunter
The thrift store is where you go to rummage for second-hand clothes (sometimes vintage, sometimes more recent). Prices are often attractive, and you can find unique pieces.
Special feature:
-
Clothes are generally resold directly by the boutique after being sorted.
-
You pay right away, just like in a conventional store.
👉 At United Vintage, we're also the online version of the thrift store: you order your bundle and discover surprise pieces, selected for their quality and stylish potential.
🛍️ Yard sales: a sale... on commission
In a garage sale, private individuals drop off their clothes, and the boutique sells them on their behalf. The seller recovers part of the price once the sale is made, and the boutique takes a commission.
Special feature:
-
Garments remain the property of the seller until sold.
-
Prices can be higher, especially for brands.
👗 Le vide-dressing: entre particuliers
The vide-dressing is either a physical event where everyone comes to sell their own clothes, or an online sale via platforms like Vinted.
Special feature:
-
It's direct between individuals, so it's not necessarily sorted or checked by a professional.
-
You can find bargains here, but you can also come across clothes of lesser quality.
💡 Why it's useful to know this
Depending on what you're looking for (low prices, specific brands, vintage pieces...), you won't go to the same place:
-
Thrift shops are ideal for bargain-hunting.
-
If you're looking to sell valuable items, you're better off with a depot-sale.
-
For simple exchanges between private individuals, vide-dressing is perfect.
🔥 United Vintage: the XXL version of the thrift store
At United Vintage, we're reinventing the thrift store with our bundles and boxes: you order online, and receive a surprise mix of second-hand pieces (vintage & modern). Perfect if you're looking for a bargain without leaving home!
👉 Discover our bundles here
👉 Follow us for style tips & live unpacking