Did you know that the first Monday in October is National Consignment Day? Yes, an entire day devoted to awareness on shopping consignment. Why have a whole day? Well, did you know that the fashion industry is one of the largest polluters on the planet? It’s the 2nd largest contributor.
Since the rise of fast fashion, clothing and retail companies focus on delivering more and more, with very little thought into if anyone would buy the products. It’s kind of like throwing a ton of spaghetti at a wall and hoping that some of them stick. The ones that don’t are incinerated or destroyed in some way.
We’ve also developed a culture of consuming more than we need or want. The idea of having more even if we don’t wear it is widespread. The average person only wears 20% of their wardrobe and will only wear a specific garment 7x before discarding it. That’s why we encourage you to sell and shop your items through a consignment store.
Consignment shopping is becoming more and more popular, especially with the rise of online consignment and thrift stores.
All photos contain at least one item from an online consignment store.
Benefits Of Shopping Consignment
- It’s a way of being more sustainable
- You can find like-new (or NWT) items
- All of your favorite brands are shoppable
- It’s budget-friendly
- Buying one used item can reduce its carbon & water footprint by 82%
- You can find unique items
- It’s a great way to sell pieces from your wardrobe
Our Favorite Online Consignment Stores
- ThredUp $-$$$: Buying from ThredUp
- Depop $-$$$: Buying from Seller
- Poshmark: $-$$$: Buying from Seller
- Ebay: $-$$$: Buying from Seller
- The RealReal $$$-$$$$: Buying from The RealReal
- Vestiaire Collective $$-$$$$: Buying from Seller
Here’s a Coupon For $10 Off Your 1st Order At ThredUp!
5 Tips For Shopping Consignment
1. Check For Quality
When shopping for consignment in-store or online, you can still have some idea of quality. If you’re in-store, inspect the garment for holes, snags, stains, and non-functional elements (such as zippers and buttons). If you’re online, the seller usually gives notes on these particular issues. However, if you’re purchasing directly from a seller, reach out if you have more questions.
2. Shop Mindfully
Shopping consignment usually means that you’re getting a lower price than you would pay for something new. So it’s easy to over-consume or buy pieces just for the thrill of a deal. Make sure that you’re thinking about your personal style and how the new item will fit your existing wardrobe.
3. Focus On Measurements Rather Than The Size Number
All brands (especially vintage) are sized differently. Focus more on the measurements of the garment rather than the size number. If you’re in-store, try the pieces on. However, if you’re online, there should be measurements of each piece indicated.
4. Check Fabric & Care Instructions
Always check the material of the garment. Is it something you’re used to wearing? In addition, always review the care label and instructions. If it’s dry clean only, is that something that you’re willing to put the money and effort into.
5. Know The Return Policy
Like any other shopping, always check the return policy, especially if you’re purchasing online. Some places may not allow returns, or there may be a restocking fee associated with the return.
In Closing
If you haven’t shopped consignment, we highly recommend it. Not only will you find some incredible and unique pieces, but you’ll feel good about what you buy.
If you want to see some incredible finds from ThredUp, check out our videos HERE & HERE!
Any of the brands mentioned above does not sponsor this article. However, some of the links may contain affiliate links which may generate revenue for the site when clicked, or when a purchase occurs. The information in this post is my thoughts and preferences.
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