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Resale is on the rise, and for good reason: an estimated 36 billion pieces of clothing are thrown away in the United States each year. As consumers become more privy to the impact of their shopping habits, these statistics prompt some self-reflection. Conscious consumption and a desire to shop more sustainably are driving factors in the resale resurgence. Shopping secondhand keeps clothing out of landfills, extends the life of garments (which in turn can decrease the item’s carbon footprint), and can usually help save you some money too.
Not only are pre-loved or secondhand picks usually environmentally- and financially-friendlier, but you can often find one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t see many others toting around. The resale market is a treasure trove of vintage finds, rare designer duds, and styles no longer in circulation. Whether you’re looking to invest in a Chanel Boy Bag or score a vintage Hermés Scarf, the designer consignment sites below can help you find that – and then some.
It is worth noting that when you’re looking into high-fashion, investment pieces, you want to make sure you’re getting exactly what you think you’re getting. While all of the resale sites below offer authentication services, it’s worth doing your own research to make sure your pieces are 100% legitimate.
Poshmark
Credit: @samanthapasch
One of the most popular peer-to-peer marketplaces, Poshmark makes it simple to buy and sell your pre-loved pieces. With an interface that is super easy to use, Poshmark feels like you’re scouring through your stylish friend’s closet yourself. You can search for brands and items directly or shop boutiques of someone’s style you admire. Poshmark also hosts virtual Posh Parties which focus on a specific theme (price point, style, type of item, season). All Poshmark sellers can bring their qualifying items to these parties, making it a great place to shop if you’re looking for some inspiration
The RealReal
Credit: @therealreal
Anyone who knows fashion knows The RealReal. This site has quickly risen the ranks and become one of the industry’s most notable players. With a large and drool-worthy selection of vintage and pre-loved pieces from all of the top luxury brands, The Real Real has something for everyone, and every budget. Handbags are just the tip of the iceberg – you can find designer jewelry, home decor, clothing, footwear, and plenty of accessories too. The site frequently restocks with fresh finds, so refresh that new arrivals page and you’re sure to find some new and exciting pieces.
Because this is resale, there’s a limited quantity of each product. That means things can go fast. The RealReal has a secret hack for letting vintage lovers get first dibs on the pieces they love. For $10 a month, you can get a First Look Subscription, which will let you shop all new arrivals 24 hours before the public sees them.
Rebag
Credit: @lilymontasser
When it comes to finding authentic handbags and jewelry from the world’s top fashion houses, Rebag is your go-to. The site is highly curated – it only accepts pieces from an exclusive group of less than 80 designers. Rebag also has pretty strict guidelines on what they will, and won’t, accept in terms of wear and tear. When it comes to explaining the condition of the pieces, Rebag offers the most detail out of any resale site I’ve seen. The site doesn’t just say whether the bag is in “excellent” or “good” shape, but provides in-depth details about any scuffing, tarnishing, and more. This helps give you a full picture of what the bag will be like before you swipe. And, if you don’t love it, Rebag’s 14-day return policy makes the weight of these big shopping decisions a little lighter.
1stDibs
Credit: 1stDibs
When it comes to luxury, 1stDibs not only provides the pieces, but a luxurious experience every step of the way. The resale site houses over one million highly-coveted pieces from furniture to fine art to fashion. Not just anyone can sell on 1stDibs, though. Sellers have to apply to sell their pre-loved pieces. Applications are vetted by the site’s team taking note of the customer experience, quality of inventory available, and more. This exclusivity certainly adds to the allure of shopping here – when you shop 1stDibs you know you’re getting the best of the best. The in-house experts at 1stDibs curate new pieces to add the site weekly and trust us – you won’t be disappointed.
ThredUp
Credit: ThredUp
If budget is top of mind, you need to check out ThredUp. In my opinion, the site isn’t as well-curated as some of the others on this list, but what this means is that if you’re willing to do the extra legwork, you can find some amazing pieces at prices you’ll be just as obsessed with. I’ve seen Stella McCartney dresses for less than $80 and Stuart Weitzman heels for $50 and below. The site has a designer section where you can shop all of these luxe labels. You can also shop Revive, an exclusive collaboration between ThredUp and Rent The Runway. Put simply, ThredUp sells pieces previously rented on RTR. If you’re on the hunt for high-end brands and one-of-a-kind finds, this is a part of the site you won’t want to miss.
Whether the environment or fashion is your top priority, these sites get top marks. With their help, shop sustainably and stylishly this Earth Month and beyond.
