The Comeback Closet: 11 Vintage Brands Fashion Insiders Are Investing In

There’s something irresistible about slipping into a piece of the past — the perfectly worn Levi’s, the low-rise Miss Sixty jeans, the slinky tops that defined early-2000s cool. What was once tucked away in vintage bins is now front and centre on runways, in resale apps, and across every stylish wardrobe worth watching. As fashion turns nostalgic, the brands we grew up with are enjoying a second life — and a soaring resale value to match.

From cult denim to quietly iconic labels, these 11 vintage names are more than just a throwback — they’re proof that good style only gets better with time.

1. Vintage band tees

Old concert merch has become seriously collectable, with original tour T-shirts from bands like Nirvana, Metallica and Oasis now sold for hundreds, or even thousands of pounds on resale platforms. The rarer the design, or the more iconic the era, the higher the value.

2. Levi’s denim

Vintage Levi’s jeans are very sought after. The most valuable model is the Levi’s 501, which is the brand’s original straight leg fit. The most rare jeans have a capital “E” in LEVI’S on the label, as this was the logo used before 1971, and the really old pairs can go for thousands of pounds. 

3. Carhartt workwear

Once known for its durability, Carhartt’s workwear has become a streetwear staple. Limited-edition collaborations and older pieces with the original logo are now considered highly desirable. If they’re kept in good condition, some of the older jackets can fetch hundreds in resale value. 

4. Patagonia fleeces

Patagonia’s retro fleeces have surged in demand, loved for their bold colours, unique patterns and timeless quality. Patagonia Synchilla Snap-T pullovers from the 90s are especially popular. The prices can range between £50 to £100 for good prints and popular sizes.

5. Football shirts

Retro football shirts have become one of the most collectable fashion items in recent years, appealing to sports fans. Classic kits from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, especially those featuring nostalgic sponsors or iconic designs can now sell for hundreds of pounds. Shirts from major clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal, and Liverpool, 90s England home kits and shirts from memorable tournaments are very high in demand. 

6. North Face puffers

Vintage North Face puffers are back in style thanks to their blend of practicality and nostalgia. Early technical models and the 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket are particularly sought after. Depending on the style, sellers can expect £100 to £250 for their vintage North Face jackets. 

7. Nike ACG collection

Nike’s “All Conditions Gear” line, originally made for outdoor performance, has been rediscovered by fashion lovers. Early ACG jackets, trail shoes and vests are now appreciated for their futuristic aesthetic, with prices potentially reaching over £250 for more rare items. 

8. 2000s Miss Sixty

The Y2K revival has brought Miss Sixty’s low-rise jeans, logo tops and micro skirts back into the spotlight. Pieces from the brand’s early 2000s collections are especially popular with Gen Z buyers. Miss Sixty’s clothes have proven to be fast sellers, with prices averaging around £30. 

9. Ralph Lauren polo shirts

Ralph Lauren polos, especially those in rare colours or vintage fits, have seen a jump in resale value because of their preppy aesthetic. Collectors are particularly interested in older designs featuring the larger Polo Pony logo or bold 90s colour-blocking, with prices often starting from £40. 

10. Stüssy streetwear

Stüssy’s early streetwear pieces have become cult favourites. Vintage logo hoodies and tees from the 90s and early 2000s are now collector’s items, with limited drops selling for hundreds. 

11. 90s and 2000s logomania

Big logos are back. Brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, and Burberry from the late 90s and early 2000s “It girl” era are now highly collectable, even pieces that once felt over the top. Depending on the brand, some items can go for hundreds of pounds. 

Josh Hembry, COO of vintage fashion retailer Messina Hembry said: “Many people may not realise that the old clothes gathering dust in their wardrobes might actually be sought-after pieces that have come back into fashion. From vintage Levi’s to retro sportswear and early 2000s staples, fashion fans are loving nostalgic pieces, especially if they’re kept in good condition. Vintage band tees are another great example. The merch you bought for £20 at a concert years ago could now be worth several times that. It’s always worth doing a bit of research before donating or throwing old clothes away. Make sure to check what similar items are selling for online. You might be surprised at how much your old favourites are worth.”

Top photo by John Branch IV on Unsplash