Whether you’re on the hunt for that rare vintage Chanel bag or just a simple basic tee from Zara, the second-hand market might be the place to be. In this article I’ll elaborate on the different options, feel free to join me on a journey through these second-hand fashion shops that are changing the game.
Vestiaire Collective
Since its launch in 2009, Vestiaire Collective has grown to be the world’s leading online marketplace for luxury second-hand fashion, adding 25,000 items every day. Its vast selection encourages shoppers to seek out specific brands or pieces. The platform stands out for accepting a variety of payment methods, including debit cards, PayPal, and Shop Pay, and it enhances the customer experience with robust policies for shipping, returns, and order tracking. With international shipping and special touches like gift wrapping, Vestiaire Collective caters to a global audience seeking luxury pre-owned fashion, supported by an array of coupon codes for savvy shoppers.
FarFetch
FarFetch stands as a beacon in the luxury fashion sector, not only for its vast array of new designer wear but also for its innovative approach to sustainability through FarFetch Second Life. Launched in Europe in 2019 and later in the US, this initiative allows consumers to trade in their designer handbags for FarFetch credit, promoting the reuse of luxury items. FarFetch’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond resale, incorporating initiatives like Climate Conscious Delivery to offset carbon emissions and a selection of conscious products that meet positive environmental and social standards. Through services such as FarFetch Donate (donate money in return for FarFetch discount) and a Fashion Footprint Tool, FarFetch empowers customers to contribute to a more sustainable fashion ecosystem.
eBay
eBay stands out as a versatile platform for both buying and selling fashion items, catering to a broad spectrum of customers seeking profitable deals or unique finds. Engaging in buying and reselling on eBay can be a lucrative venture, allowing users to pick up items at low prices for resale. The platform is conducive to finding items in bulk, “job lot,” or “wholesale,” making it easier for sellers to invest in products that promise good returns. eBay encourages exploring out-of-season goods as a strategy, capitalizing on the demand shift throughout the year. Moreover, eBay UK’s initiative, the Circular Fashion Innovator’s Fund, in partnership with the British Fashion Council, underscores its commitment to sustainable fashion. This fund provides £100,000 to support small businesses focusing on circular fashion solutions, promoting technology and services that encourage sustainable consumer behaviors. This initiative is part of eBay’s broader effort to support the circular economy within the fashion industry, illustrating its role in driving sustainability alongside offering a platform for traditional buying and selling. These initiatives and features highlight eBay’s dual role as a marketplace for individual sellers and buyers looking for fashion items, and as a platform championing sustainability and innovation in the fashion sector.
Vinted
Founded in Lithuania in 2008, Vinted has grown into a vibrant community for users to sell, buy, or swap clothing and accessories. Sellers and buyers can chat, which emphasizes user interaction, including forums for discussion. Transitioning from a mandatory sales fee model, Vinted now charges buyers a protection fee to ensure transaction security, which varies between 3% and 8% of the item’s price. This approach has significantly contributed to its revenue growth, with the platform seeing a considerable increase in registered users and downloads over the years. In 2022, Vinted expanded its logistical capabilities with Vinted Go, introducing branded lockers in Paris and a digital shipping platform for B2B carriers, marking its status as Lithuania’s first tech unicorn company.
Hardly Ever Worn It
Hardly Ever Worn It (also known as Hewi) offers a curated experience for buyers and sellers of luxury second-hand fashion. The platform’s unique appeal lies in its focus on high-end items and its provision of a secure transaction environment. With features such as Apple Pay support and a straightforward return policy, it stands out as a preferred choice for consumers seeking luxury fashion without the luxury price tag. Despite its niche focus, Hardly Ever Worn It presents challenges, such as limited payment options and less extensive customer service features compared to larger platforms like Vestiaire Collective. However, its commitment to luxury fashion and user-friendly policies make it a valuable destination for discerning shoppers.
NA-KD Circle
NA-KD introduces a revolutionary concept within the fashion retail landscape, focusing on the sustainable cycle of fashion: NA-KD Circle. This platform allows customers to return their NA-KD items for shop credit, promoting a circular economy in fashion retail. NA-KD Circle’s innovative approach not only encourages sustainable consumer behavior but also sets a precedent for fashion retailers looking to integrate circular economy principles into their business models, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in the modern fashion industry.
This detailed overview provides a glimpse into the diverse offerings of each platform, highlighting their unique contributions to the evolving second-hand fashion marketplace. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, these platforms offer varied experiences tailored to different needs, from luxury fashion enthusiasts to those looking for an eco-friendly wardrobe refresh. Embarking on this exploration of second-hand fashion sites reveals the dynamic and diverse ways in which the fashion industry is evolving towards sustainability. Each platform, from the luxury-focused Vestiaire Collective and FarFetch to the broad appeal of eBay and community-driven Vinted, alongside the innovative approach of NA-KD Circle, offers unique opportunities for consumers to engage with fashion in an eco-friendly and conscious manner. As we continue to navigate the complexities of fashion consumption, these platforms stand out as beacons of hope, leading the charge towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
This article, originally authored by Florence, was first published in TrustDeals.co.uk on 21 March, DOI: https://www.trustdeals.co.uk/articles/the-best-second-hand-sites-to-shop-and-sell-fashion. It is reprinted here with permission from the publisher and the author(s). Any modifications made to the article since its original publication are noted in the text.
