In a reality where collections and trends change so fast, I wonder how one can be a responsible consumer?
A significant move I’ve made in recent years is transitioning to purchasing secondhand fashion. Previously, the idea of owning pre-owned clothing felt strange, as if I were stepping into someone else’s wardrobe. Despite occasionally borrowing clothes from family or friends, I couldn’t reconcile with the thought of paying for previously worn attire.
You may be wondering, what prompted this shift in my thinking? My awareness of the environmental and social implications of the fast-fashion industry sparked the change. As I delved into sustainability and alternatives to fast fashion, I discovered that secondhand fashion is a universe unto itself, boasting an extensive and diverse assortment of items—some of which have never been worn. I also came to understand that trends often repeat themselves; what’s fashionable now was likely in vogue in the past. Consequently, you can find current high-street trends in thrift stores.
What is the difference between vintage and secondhand?
Vintage items refer to those produced between 30 to 100 years ago, meaning anything crafted prior to 1991 qualifies as vintage. These items often encapsulate distinct fashion eras and may vary in sizing compared to today’s standards. On the other hand, a secondhand item is any piece that isn’t new and has been previously owned, irrespective of whether it has been used or not. While vintage items pertain to a specific era, secondhand items can be from any period, even as recent as a week or a month ago, as long as it was bought by someone else and then passed on. Some thrift stores exclusively retail vintage pieces, while others offer a mix of both secondhand and vintage. This post will also include recommendations for online shops that specialize in vintage articles.
What to look for when you buy secondhand fashion?
Looking to delve into the world of secondhand fashion? That’s fantastic! If you’re uncertain about where to begin, my initial advice would be to seek out timeless pieces you’ve been longing to include in your wardrobe. Secondhand stores usually offer a broad selection of such items. Plus, with classic pieces, you’re less likely to face surprises regarding what you’re getting. For instance, my personal journey into thrifting began with the hunt for a leather biker jacket—a perennially stylish item that can withstand the test of time. However, it can also come with a hefty price tag, making the secondhand market a more budget-friendly alternative.
Yet, as previously noted, you can also seek out currently trending items in the secondhand market. For instance, last winter I wanted to incorporate the knit vest trend into my wardrobe. Aware that this style had been popular in the past, I opted to find it secondhand rather than purchasing from a mainstream retailer. I stumbled upon a gorgeous vintage knit vest in beige, made entirely of wool, on eBay. Its price and design were comparable to a synthetic material knit vest I’d seen at Zara. However, wool offers the dual benefits of superior warmth and being eco-friendly—it decomposes in about nine months, while polyester takes decades, if not centuries, to degrade.
Whether you’re exploring a brick-and-mortar thrift store or browsing online, it’s helpful to have specific items in mind. The sheer volume and diversity of options can be overwhelming otherwise. If you’re unsure where to start, turn to digital platforms for inspiration—Pinterest, Instagram, or even mainstream retailers’ lookbooks. From there, you can hunt for these items in the secondhand market.
Recommended vintage & secondhand online shops
While many are familiar with eBay as a shopping platform, it might not be as widely known that it’s a thriving marketplace for both private and professional sellers of secondhand and vintage items. I’ve personally made several purchases of vintage items from eBay, including a designer bag from yesteryears, and have been quite satisfied with my acquisitions. Some sellers even offer the option to haggle over the price. However, one downside to buying from eBay is the onus being on the buyer to confirm the item’s condition and authenticity. Thus, it’s crucial to opt for trustworthy sellers and gather all necessary information prior to making a purchase. I’ll delve more into this aspect later.
Similar to eBay, Etsy is a site (and an app) that brings together various sellers. Unlike eBay, on Etsy, you can only find vintage items. The sellers are also only professional sellers and not private ones. When looking for vintage items on Etsy, look for specifications like sizing and condition. I also recommend reading reviews on the seller and checking out other items the seller offers. This will give you a better idea of the seller.
Asos Marketplace plays host to an array of boutiques from across the globe, offering vintage and pre-loved items. However, it’s important to note that not every item listed on the Marketplace is secondhand, so be sure to apply appropriate filters in your search. The platform also features most sellers providing reasonably priced worldwide shipping. As with any online purchase, it’s advised to peruse seller reviews prior to making a purchase. One boutique I can personally vouch for on Asos Marketplace is Avelina’s Vintage, which boasts a collection that includes vintage Levi’s denim, among other treasures.
Vestiaire Collective, a European-based platform, serves as a marketplace for both private and professional sellers dealing in vintage and secondhand fashion. They offer a wide range of brands and price points. One of their key strengths is the authentication and condition check they conduct on items prior to shipping them out to buyers. Despite numerous positive recommendations about Vestiaire, my personal experience with them has been less than satisfactory. On several occasions, I attempted to make purchases, only to be informed later that the item was no longer available—even after charges had been applied to my account. While they did eventually refund me, the recurring issue of advertising unavailable items left me perplexed. My attempts to gain clarity on the matter from their customer service were unfortunately met with vague responses.
Additional online shops that sell vintage & secondhand items:
Bob Studio – Sells only vintage items.
What to check before buying second hand items online?
Who is the seller?
When shopping on platforms like eBay and Etsy, where numerous individual and professional sellers are present, it’s vital to conduct some preliminary investigation. Look into whether the seller is an individual or a professional, examine the other items they have on offer, and check how many sales they’ve made thus far. Above all, make sure to read the seller reviews as they can give you a good sense of what to expect from your shopping experience. One key takeaway from my own online secondhand shopping experiences is the importance of buying from trusted sellers. This not only makes the shopping experience more enjoyable but also boosts your confidence in your purchasing decisions.
What is the item’s condition?
Professional sellers and sites like Vestiaire Collective will usually provide you with information about the item’s condition. It is best to look for photos of the item from different angles. If you haven’t found enough info, though, contact the seller and ask about the item’s condition and its defects (if any). Feel free to ask for more photos of the item as well. The more details you’ll have, the more chances you’re making a reliable purchase.
Authenticity
Verifying the authenticity of an item is crucial, particularly when it comes to procuring designer pieces. Recently, I acquired a Fendi Baguette bag, and before finalizing the purchase, I conducted a thorough online search for the specific authenticity markers associated with Fendi bags. I then cross-referenced these markers with the images provided by the seller. These authenticity indicators can range from distinct logo designs and serial numbers to unique buckle shapes and more. A number of online secondhand stores, including The Real Real, provide guides to help you discern the authenticity of designer items. There are also websites and forums like Purseblog that offer reviews of designer items, complete with details about their specific authenticity markers.
You can also continue the cycle
If you’ve recently sorted through your closet and discovered items that you no longer need, consider giving them a new lease on life by reselling them or trading them with friends or family. This way, your pre-loved pieces can find a new home! Platforms like Depop are excellent for this purpose, offering an easy-to-use interface for reselling your items. Alternatively, you could also take your items to a local thrift store.
In conclusion, when shopping secondhand, resist the urge to buy items that don’t align with your personal style or are attractive merely because they’re designer pieces at a lower cost. The most eco-friendly purchases are those that you’ll love wearing for years to come.
I hope this guide inspires you to venture into the realm of secondhand fashion. From my personal experience, it’s a universe filled with unique and high-quality, timeless pieces that can add a distinctive flair to your wardrobe. Moreover, it’s arguably the most sustainable shopping method, contributing to the well-being of our planet. Here’s wishing you a joyous Earth Day!
FAQ: “The Beginner’s Guide to Secondhand Shopping Online”
1. What is secondhand shopping online? Secondhand shopping online involves purchasing previously owned items through internet-based platforms. This can include clothing, furniture, electronics, and more, often available at reduced prices compared to new items.
2. Why should I consider secondhand shopping online? Secondhand shopping online is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. It reduces waste by giving items a second life, helping to minimize the carbon footprint associated with producing and shipping new goods.
3. Where can I find secondhand items online? Popular platforms for secondhand shopping online include eBay, Depop, ThredUp, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace. Each platform has its own unique features and types of items available.
4. How can I ensure the quality of secondhand items online? Read product descriptions carefully, check photos, review seller ratings and feedback, and don’t hesitate to ask the seller for more information or additional pictures if you’re unsure about an item’s condition.
5. What are the best tips for a successful secondhand shopping experience online? Start by knowing your measurements and size preferences, set a budget, research sellers, be patient in searching for the right items, and always read the return policy before making a purchase.
6. Can I negotiate prices when shopping secondhand items online? Yes, on many platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace, it’s common to negotiate prices. However, be respectful and reasonable with your offers. Some sites might have fixed prices, especially if they offer a curated selection of items.
7. Are there any risks involved in secondhand online shopping? As with any online transaction, there’s a risk of fraud, receiving items that don’t match their description, or encountering issues with shipping. Purchase from reputable sellers and platforms to minimize these risks.
8. How can I safely pay for secondhand items online? Use secure payment methods recommended by the platform, such as PayPal or the platform’s own processing system. Avoid direct transfers to a seller’s bank account or using cash-sending apps.
9. Is secondhand shopping online eco-friendly? Yes, by reducing the demand for new items and making use of what already exists, secondhand shopping online can be a more sustainable choice, contributing to less manufacturing and transportation emissions.
10. How do I start selling my own items online for secondhand shopping? Choose a platform that aligns with the type of items you’re selling, take clear photos, write detailed descriptions, set fair prices based on the item’s condition and market value, and be responsive to potential buyers’ inquiries.
These FAQs aim to provide a comprehensive overview for beginners interested in exploring the world of online secondhand shopping, highlighting its benefits, how to get started, and tips for both buying and selling effectively.
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