Knowing What to Buy: The Right Brands & Styles
Not all fashion is created equal when it comes to resale value. Certain brands consistently outperform others, and having a keen sense of which labels are worth your time is vital. High-end designer brands, both contemporary and vintage, usually yield the best returns but are also the hardest to find– especially at a reasonable price point.
When you’re struggling to find the high end brands and name brand labels, falling back on style based sourcing is key. This is where being in the know on what is currently trending is crucial to your reselling success. Finding pieces that are desirable based solely on how they look is a great way to purchase something for a very low cost and flip it for a reasonable profit margin.
When it comes to style, vintage is king. Consumers have fallen in love with the idea of sustainable fashion, and vintage clothing has become more desirable than ever before. Items from the ‘80s and ‘90s, especially if they’re in great condition or have a unique element like bold graphics, oversized silhouettes, or rare cuts, can fetch impressive prices. When hunting for pieces, always keep your eye on the trends, but also remember that classic, well-made pieces tend to have lasting value.
The number one most beneficial thing you can do to learn about what to source when at the thrift store is to turn on Youtube. Here you will find content related to what brands are desirable, what styles are trending, and what strategies other successful resellers are practicing to build a profitable business model. One thing to note is that not all reselling businesses are created equal. Variables such as location, online presence, and which platform you’re selling on, can all make a difference in how your business performs.
Listing It Right: The Art of the Perfect Listing
Once you’ve found the perfect item, it’s time to list it. How you present your items online can make all the difference in how quickly they sell and the price you can fetch. A well-structured and informative listing creates trust with potential buyers, while a poorly written, vague post will leave your item sitting unsold.
The Title – Your title should be concise but informative. Use keywords that buyers are most likely to search for. Include the brand name, the item type (e.g., "vintage leather jacket," "Chanel handbag"), the size, and any standout features like color or material. For example, a great title for a classic pair of jeans could be, “Levi’s 501 Vintage Straight Leg Denim, Size 30, Dark Wash.”
The Description – This is your chance to really sell the piece. Describe the garment’s condition in detail, highlighting any flaws and pointing out special features that set it apart. If there’s any backstory to the item—whether it's a limited edition piece, part of a collection, or a famous collaboration—make sure to mention it. Transparency about condition is key, as customers are looking for authenticity, especially when purchasing secondhand items.
The Price – Pricing can be tricky. Research similar items on resale platforms to get a sense of what similar pieces are selling for. Aim to price your item competitively, but don't undersell yourself. If you're unsure about a price, remember that you can always start higher and drop the price if it doesn’t sell.
The Visuals: Why Presentation Matters
When it comes to fashion resale, photography is everything. The right images can mean the difference between a quick sale and a lingering listing.
For your photos, the goal is to make the item look as appealing as possible while showing it off in detail. A clean white background is ideal as it allows the piece to stand out without distractions. If you don’t have access to a professional backdrop, you can easily create one using a white sheet or a roll of white paper. The simpler, the better—buyers want to focus on the item, not the clutter behind it. PRO TIP: Using a background remover tool can be an easy way to edit your photos to appear professional and clean without having to purchase additional resources for your photographs. This is a strategy I still implement in my reselling business today. I personally prefer the ease of the Canva background remover tool, but this does cost me $12 a month for the Pro Subscription.
Modeling your pieces is another great option if you have the ability to do so. Wearing the item or having someone model it gives potential buyers a better sense of how it fits and how it looks in real life. Just make sure the fit is clear, and try to include multiple angles—front, back, side—to capture the full picture.
Be sure to zoom in on any unique features, labels, or stitching that might help the buyer identify the authenticity or craftsmanship of the item. If there are any flaws—faint stains, tiny rips, or discoloration—make sure to photograph those as well. Showing flaws upfront builds trust with your buyers.
The Final Touch: Shipping & Customer Service
Once your item is sold, the last step is providing an exceptional experience for your buyer. Ship the item promptly, package it carefully, and consider adding a personal touch, like a thank-you note. Great customer service goes a long way in building a reputation as a trusted reseller.
Fashion Reselling: A Win for the Environment
Beyond making a profit, fashion reselling is a way to fight against the massive waste problem in the fashion industry. Fast fashion creates a cycle of over-consumption that’s damaging the environment in major ways—excessive water use, harmful chemicals, and mountains of clothing sent to landfills. Reselling clothes is a small yet powerful way to break that cycle.
By giving secondhand pieces a second life, you’re contributing to sustainable fashion and reducing the demand for new clothing. Every item you resell is one less piece of clothing added to the trash heap. Plus, you're helping others buy more consciously and sustainably.
As consumers become more eco-conscious, reselling is growing in popularity. You’re not just making money—you’re part of a bigger movement to reduce waste and promote ethical consumption. The thrill of treasure hunting takes on a whole new meaning when you realize you’re helping the planet at the same time.
Final Thoughts: The Reseller’s Hustle
At the end of the day, fashion reselling isn’t just about flipping clothes for cash—it’s about finding treasures, learning the game, and contributing to a more sustainable fashion future. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, the thrill of the hunt and the joy of making a deal never get old.
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