The apparel resale market has exploded in recent years, and sellers are always looking for new stock to add to their racks. If you're looking to invest in or sell valuable pre-loved items, here are some key considerations that can help you track down high-demand secondhand clothes.
What Are the Best-Selling Secondhand Items?
The items likely to get the most interest in a resale shop vary from state to state (and season to season), but there are a few perennial frontrunners:
Designer Labels
Designer shoes, clothing, and even accessories retain their value and can appreciate over time. Brands like Chanel, Fendi, and Louis Vuitton are known for their enduring quality and craftsmanship, making them resale bestsellers. Items from limited edition collections or designer collaborations can also become coveted collector's items.
Handbags
Trendy handbags (like classic Coach bags and colorful Kate Spade totes) and wallets from renowned designers are highly sought after in secondhand stores. Even less luxurious brands can fetch a good price if they’re made of high-quality leather and in good condition.
Sneakers
Sneakerheads regularly scan secondhand shelves for hard-to-find collector’s items. Limited edition drops, collaborations with artists or musicians, and sneakers featuring unique designs or logos can command high prices in the resale market. Hoodies and sportswear accessories are also popular.
Size-Inclusive Items
Plus-sized apparel items hold significant value in a resale shop due to their high demand and often limited availability in mainstream retail stores. Customers of all body types seek stylish and well-fitting secondhand clothing, and the shortage of larger-sized items means they are often highly sought after.
High-Quality Basics
Resellers invest in versatile pieces from mid-range brands, knowing that their style and reputation command a higher price than fast fashion items. Eileen Fisher capsule staples, well-made denim from Levi's or APC, or classic white shirts from Brooks Brothers hold their value and are versatile additions to any wardrobe.
New-With-Tag Items
The condition of an item significantly affects its resale value. Buyers are looking for pieces in new or like-new condition, so anything with tags still attached will be more attractive to both shoppers and resellers.
Inventory Gaps
Finally, the range of items resale stores are likely to buy depends on their current inventory. For example, stores low on plus-size fashions, baby clothes, or menswear might pay a higher premium for those items. They also take a high percentage of in-demand items (like Lululemon activewear) because they know those pieces will sell.
Pre-Loved Fashion Protects People and the Planet
From environmental and sustainability concerns to rebelling against fast fashion practices, people have their own reasons for supporting the secondhand model. The truth is that pre-owned apparel benefits everyone, encouraging ethical practices and prioritizing quality over quantity.
The more you cherish and preserve your clothing, the more it will ultimately be worth when selling at Clothes Mentor. Check out our designer offerings and new listings to start building your environmentally-friendly closet!
