Where To Buy Second-Hand Designer This Christmas
It’s December 1st so we can officially say that it’s Christmas, yes?! Even if you say no, we’re looking ahead to that very festive time and all that it brings with it…including, of course, presents. Whether you are buying for yourself or someone else, Christmas shopping can be deeply overwhelming for a multitude of reasons. We’ve already helped you with buying gifts for your fashion-loving friends/family (that aren’t clothes), but what if you want to buy them clothes…specifically designer clothes?
In not knowing where you are currently based, and assuming that we’re all still drawn into online shopping, let’s take a gander at the second-hand designer outlets that you can buy from on your phone or laptop.
DESIGNER RESALE SITES
Designer resale sites do what they say on the tin (or rather, very expensive ribbon). Pulled together specifically to sell second-hand designer pieces, these websites curate some of the best items money can buy and, most valuably, will authenticate said items to ensure you are buying a real and not a fake.
Vestiaire Collective is one of the world’s most popular designer resale sites with one of the largest selections of pre-loved designer clothing, handbags, jewellery and accessories with thousands of new listings landing every single week. Items you buy from Vestiaire are almost always guaranteed to be real due to their rigorous and trusted verification system. According to their website, “Every item sold on the site undergoes a rigorous authentication process before being sent to you. Authentication is about more than expertise, it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.” A big plus side to Vestiaire is the variety of price points and brands, there really is something for everyone and every budget!
The Real Real is the world’s largest luxury retail site with more than 25 million members. The site is seen as a reliable and trusted retailer, however, it does have a small history of selling counterfeits which have resulted in the brand being involved in several lawsuits. Having said this, The Real Real does alert law enforcement of any counterfeit items it does receive. Featuring all the most beloved luxury brands you can find literally anything here!
The Luxury Closet originated in Dubai, becoming the largest designer resale site in the Middle East and has since launched in the UK. This particular site offers, as most do, a marvellous variety of brands, items and styles, however, it is most loved for its highly rigorous authentication system. The Authenticity section of their website offers a wealth of information about how they check, as well as how you can! Their hot deal offers are a great way to save money this holiday season.
RENTING
While it can be tempting to buy beautiful designer items that you will only wear once, it may be worth looking into a designer rental piece where you only pay for what you really wear which not only saves you money but also helps the environment by encouraging a more circular fashion economy.
Hurr Collective was founded in 2018 by Victoria Pew and Matthew Geleta and also falls into the peer-to-peer category, giving people a place to monetise their wardrobes and earn some extra cash. With the ability to rent from over 40000 brands including the likes of Staud, Reformation and The Vampire’s Wife you will be sure to find the perfect Christmas party gown. Hurr has also launched their own pre-loved section which acts like your typical designer resale site!
By Rotation is one of the most popular ever-growing peer-to-peer platforms and is taking the fashion world by storm. Since launching in October 2019 it has very swiftly become a favourite due to its wide array of products, from high-end to high-street and everything in between. With a variety of rental options, you can certainly make your rental piece fit your lifestyle.
THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY
Of course, while these specific websites and companies exist to make the whole process easier for the customer, you can always opt to shop second-hand designers the good old-fashioned way. eBay is still, and probably will always be, one of the world’s top-rated online resale markets for quite literally anything, but it can be an excellent resource when shopping for clothing. In fact, they have recently began to make the process somewhat more streamlined with their Pre-loved Fashion department featuring brands like Marks & Spencer, Nike and Levi’s. Of course, you can also find a whole magical host of luxury brands when searching organically.
