Is your wardrobe full of clothing that never gets worn? Then it’s time for a clear out and the good news is you can reclaim some of that cash by selling your unwanted pieces!
Better that someone else gets some love out of your unused pieces than them taking up valuable wardrobe space, right?
Below are all the things you need to know about how to sell your clothes online and our tips and tricks for fuss free sales.
Go through your wardrobe and be honest
If you haven’t worn the item in the last year, then ask yourself why?
Does it fit and will you actually wear it? Do you have other items very similar? Do you love it or was it just a bargain?
Sort into piles as you go
- Keep
- Alter – Perhaps you love the colour but the fit isn’t quite right? Could a quick alteration make this item perfect? Altering your clothing is much cheaper than buying new, and means you can turn not quite right items into custom made perfection.
- Recycle – Any items that are stained or damaged beyond repair should be bagged and dropped off at your nearest clothes recycling point.
- Sell – Quality items in good condition and those that still have the tags on.
TIP: Designer pieces, boutique brands and mid to top-end high street labels like Zara and H&M sell best. As well as unique or vintage items.
Prep the pieces you want to sell
All items should be clean, ironed and looking their best.
You can choose to wear the pieces yourself so shoppers can see what it looks like on or you can take photos of the pieces flat laid out or hanging.
TIP: Knits and winter wear will sell best through autumn and winter, while summer dresses are best kept until the weather warms so bag and store these to sell later.
Choose a photo space
Pick a spot in your home that has good natural light, preferable near a large window.
Then make sure the area is tidy and clean- your buyers will notice and will be put off by mess and distraction!
Start snapping
Most smartphones have great cameras and take quality, high resolution images.
The added benefit of using your phone is you can edit and upload them straight to the seller app you want to use. Easy!
Remember your photos need to clearly present the colour and quality of your item, so there are no surprises after purchase. Take photos of all angles of the item to provide a clear picture.
TIP: Check out other seller pages and think about which photos you are drawn to and what they are doing to help their photos stand out.
Choose a reseller app
Once you have everything photographed you can move listing each item. There are lots of platforms to choose from, a few of our favourites are
- DEPOP and Vinted are both great for vintage clothing(pre 2000)
- Facebook Marketplace: is a great all rounder and a favourite for free local sales where you allow local pickup
Just keep in mind that some sites do take a commission from each sale and factor this into your decision.
Start listing your items
Upload each item and be honest and specific in your description.
Remember to include:
- Is the item Preloved, Unworn, Barely Worn, NWT(new with tags)?
- Brand/Label
- Year purchased or describe as Vintage if pre 2000
- Measurements help if you know them, like the length of a dress hem or the length from shoulder to shoulder.
- Colour and fabric or materials of buttons etc.
- Price (plus postage estimate if applicable)
TIP: Unsure on pricing? Search for similar pieces other people are selling on the platform to give yourself a ballpark figure.
Post your sold items
Mailer bags are perfect for sending out soft items like clothing in the post. You can pick these up at your local post office or order them online in a range of sizes. Plus they are available in biodegradable options if you prefer to avoid using plastic.
TIP: Mailer bags are inexpensive and seal items safely protecting them from water and damage.
Start selling!
Your items are listed and now it’s time to have fun selling!
Be friendly and have fun engaging with buyers to answer any questions they have or negotiate prices.
By replying to comments and messages quickly customers will be more likely to purchase with you and leave you a positive review!
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