1. Wicker and Rattan Furniture

“Wicker and rattan furniture sell quickly as porches and sunrooms start getting more use as the weather warms,” says Meredith McKenzie, principal of The Selective Design, where she works alongside associate principal Shivani Vyas. It’s understandable since few materials scream “summer” quite like wicker and rattan. Lightweight yet durable, these pieces naturally lend themselves to both outdoor and indoor spaces that get used more in the summertime.

Thrifted furniture is especially sought after “if you come across any well-made antique wicker, which tends to feature tighter weaving, sturdier frames, and more intricate detailing than many newer iterations,” according to McKenzie. While mass-produced versions are easy to find, vintage and antique pieces offer a level of quality that’s hard to replicate. As a result, they’re often the first to sell in secondhand settings.

2. Bamboo and Faux Bamboo Furniture

Like wicker and rattan, bamboo and faux-bamboo pieces also dominate the summer market. Their clean lines and slightly more structured silhouettes make them a natural fit for both traditional and contemporary spaces. “Bamboo and faux bamboo furniture also move quickly because of their timeless appeal,” McKenzie says. These pieces can skew coastal, preppy, or even Hollywood Regency depending on how they’re styled, which broadens their appeal and, therefore, can shorten their shelf life in resale environments. The bottom line? If you find the perfect bamboo bar cart for your space, snap it up right away!

3. Garden Accessories

Unsurprisingly, decorative garden items are also a hot commodity in secondhand stores during the warmer weather. “Garden urns, planters, and stone accessories become popular as outdoor spaces take focus,” says McKenzie. “These layering pieces add structure, patina, and a sense of intention that's difficult to achieve with just furniture alone.” She gives examples such as weathered terracotta planters and faux topiary balls that can help create a collected, intentional look in your garden.

Robert Brinson

4. Vintage Storage Pieces

While storage is always in demand, summer often comes with additional storage needs. “Antique dressers, chests, and cabinets with glass hutches are a great purchase for summer guest rooms needing extra storage, hallway consoles, or empty corners where you want to create a functional and beautiful vignette,” McKenzie explains. A single piece can serve multiple roles in different spaces, making it an easy yes for shoppers looking to maximize both style and function.

“Pretty chests can also moonlight as nightstands if you find a pair, or offer a place to neatly stow away extra towels, toys, or everyday essentials,” she says. “We’ve even used chests as standalone bars, or cabinets with glass hutches as linen storage in primary baths to hold bath accessories and display spa-style rolled towels.” Beyond their practicality, there’s also an aesthetic advantage, according to McKenzie: “A well-proportioned antique with original hardware adds both function and character in a way newer pieces often can’t replicate - that lived-in feel that makes a home feel curated rather than simply store-bought.”

5. Blue and White Chinoiserie Ceramics

The classic, blue-and-white-patterned ceramic decor also sees a spike in popularity during the summer months, per McKenzie. Their crisp palette pairs particularly well with coastal-inspired designs. “Blue and white chinoiserie ceramics always feel light and classic,” says McKenzie. “They’re definitely timeless pieces anyone can incorporate into everyday or seasonal tablescapes.”

Because they’re so versatile, these pieces appeal to a wide range of buyers, from serious collectors to casual decorators, which helps explain why they rarely linger on shelves. “Pieces with hand-painted details or subtle crackle glaze can be especially desirable,” she adds, pointing to the kinds of details that elevate a find from simply decorative to an enviable collectible.

Why Timing Matters When Thrifting

Even if you know exactly what you’re shopping for, timing can make or break your success in the secondhand market. Because, unlike predictable retail cycles, resale inventory may hit the floor well before peak demand. “We recommend starting early,” McKenzie advises. “February and March typically offer the best selection before demand increases.”

That early window is when smart shoppers and resellers do their best work, sourcing high-quality pieces before the competition steps up. “It’s also helpful to build relationships with shop owners and let them know what you’re looking for,” she adds. “And if you find a piece that feels right, it’s often worth acting on it because the best pieces rarely wait!”