Thrifter Ignores Family and Buys $40 Jacket—Awe at What It Turns Out To Be

A woman scored a biker leather jacket worth up to $400, despite her family advising her against it.

Marissa Rose (u/harryisthechosenone), 30, nearly left the black tasseled leather jacket on the hanger after her mom, sister and boyfriend urged her not to buy it. However, unable to stop thinking about the distinctive jacket, she returned to purchase it for just $40.

"I knew I had to go back because I loved how it fit and I have always wanted a fringed leather jacket. I could not stop thinking about it after I left the store the first time. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to restore the jacket," Rose, a laboratory supervisor from Syracuse, New York, told Newsweek.

According to her research and seven years of thrifting expertise, Rose believes the jacket is from the 80s or 90s and has found similar models online, selling for anywhere between $100 and $400.

"I was foolish to let them talk me out of it at first! I demanded we turn around and go back! So worth it," Rose shared in the comments of the original post, which garnered 10,000 upvotes in the subreddit "Thrift Store Hauls," detailing the restoration process through images of the jacket, from looking tired in the vintage store to appearing dazzlingly new.

"I did a 50/50 water/vinegar soak, and reconditioned twice with Bick 4," Rose shared.

Their cleaning process involved a water and vinegar soak followed by reconditioning with Bickmore Bick 4, a leather conditioner.

According to Von Baer, a leather brand, a water and vinegar solution is an effective method for cleaning leather without causing damage. Vinegar helps break down dirt and grime while also acting as a natural disinfectant. However, it's crucial to follow up with a conditioner to prevent the leather from drying out.

Bickmore Bick 4, as noted by website Sneaker Science, is a leather conditioner that restores softness and shine while protecting against cracking. It is widely used to maintain high-quality leather products like jackets, boots, and saddles.

The jacket appears to be from UNIK, a brand specializing in high-quality biker gear. According to the website, UNIK men's biker jackets range in price from $149.99 to $299.99, making Rose's thrift store find an impressive deal.

Redditors were quick to celebrate the restoration and the thrifted bargain.

"It looks brand new!! Awesome work. Now you just need some vintage Laredo ropers to complete the lewk," one user commented.

Rose responded that she had already acquired vintage Laredos, a well-known brand of Western-style boots. As described by Western Wear, Laredo boots are recognized for their durable leather construction and classic cowboy aesthetic, making them a fitting complement to the biker jacket.

Another user admired the OP's determination, writing, "So you're a 'I do what I want' kind of a woman. Got it. Love it!"

"They were wrong, you were right," another Redditor affirmed.

"I saw the title and thought you left it. I was going to be so sad. Nice score!" someone else added.

"I have a burning passion for the thrill of the thrift hunt and there is nothing like the feeling of finding a diamond among the ordinary. It's addicting. I like to joke that most of my closet is older than I am," Rose concluded.

Do you have any amazing thrifting finds that you want to share? We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life@newsweek.com and they could appear on our site.