How to Shop Second-Hand Online
- Karolina
- Jan 9
- 4 min read
A Comprehensive Guide
In the era of sustainable living, second-hand shopping has become a very trendy topic. Although it is not a new idea, with charity and vintage shops gracing our streets for decades, ONLINE second-hand shopping has become a bit of a thing.
There are thousands upon thousands of previously owned clothing items that you can buy online across multiple platforms. Still, there is an art to it, which, as a seasoned second-hand shopper, I am happy to share with you.
The main difficulty when shopping this way is your lack of direct contact with the item of interest—you cannot check its quality by interacting with it, let alone try it on.
Here are a few tips I’ve put together to help you successfully shop second-hand online, with little or no regrets:
1. Know What You Are Looking For
Before you start browsing, take a moment to think about what you truly need or want. With thousands of items available online, it’s easy to get carried away and buy things that aren't really on your list. An item’s price might be an absolute bargain, but do you need a fifth pair of black winter boots (maybe you do but just take a moment to think about it!)
2. Know Your Sizing & How Items Fit
You MUST know your sizing when shopping online!
I know my sizing for most brands I regularly shop from (and, as we know, one brand’s size M is another’s L!) For those I am not familiar with, I scour the web to find their sizing charts for comparison. Sellers are usually great at providing the measurements for the items listed but do not be shy to reach out and ask for any information that you might require (extra measurements, fit, fabrication – a stiff pair of denim in W25 fits different to the one made of more stretchy fabric!)
3. Check the Seller Rating
One of the best ways to gauge a seller’s reliability is by checking their ratings and reviews. Look for feedback from previous buyers to understand the seller’s communication, shipping speed, and whether the item matches the description. A high rating usually means you're in good hands!
And, do not forget to leave great reviews for those sellers that delivered!
4. Understand Materials
Knowing the materials used in the item is crucial, ESPECIALLY when shopping online. Look for detailed descriptions of fabric content—whether it’s cotton, wool, silk, or synthetic. Understanding the fabric helps you understand the quality, comfort, and care the item may need. Ask the seller about any wear and tear on the fabric, or if they’ve treated it in any way.
5. Know International Measurements
Different countries have different sizing systems, which can be confusing. For instance, a pair of shoes in the UK size 8 often translates to the EU 41 but French 42!
REMEMBER: You can use an online converter to make sure you’re getting the right size and fit.
7. Pay Attention to the Pictures
Always look closely at the photos provided by the seller. Ideally, the item should be shown from different angles, and any imperfections should be clearly highlighted. If the pictures are unclear, don't hesitate to ask the seller for more detailed shots.
8. Ask Why the Item is Discounted
If an item is heavily discounted, ask the seller why. Are there any flaws or damages that aren’t mentioned? Lots of people just want to get rid of their unwated clothes and would be keen to sell them for close to nothing but just double check you’re not buying a skirt with coffee stains all over it.
9. Don’t Be Afraid to Bargain for the Price
If you really want an item but feel the price is a bit too high, make an offer! Don’t be afraid to bargain with the seller—many second-hand sellers are open to negotiation, especially if the item has been listed for a while. AND, they often price the items higher than what they were originally thinking anyway!
10. Wait and Watch Before You Buy
Don’t rush to buy an item immediately unless you see it has a lot of interest. If you’re truly interested in an item, start a conversation with the seller or send in your price offer. I recommend saving items you’re considering and revisiting them regularly. If something has been sitting in your “like” section for a while, there’s a higher chance the seller might be open to offering a discount.
11. Let Go if It Sells Before You Can Buy
If an item sells before you manage to make a purchase, don’t cry over it. There will always be other opportunities!
12. Follow Your Favourite Sellers
You can also follow your favourite sellers and set up notifications to be alerted when they post new items. This can give you a head start on finding exactly what you want before others snatch it up!
13. Know the Refund and Return Policies
Always be aware of the refund and return policies before making a purchase. Some platforms, like Vinted, have strict rules: once you accept the item, you cannot return it. However, you may still be able to negotiate a return with the seller if they agree, but they are not legally obligated to do so. Make sure you understand these policies to avoid any surprises after you’ve made the purchase.
14. Watch Out for Fraudsters
Be cautious of fake accounts, as some fraudsters may use other people's pictures and offer items at suspiciously low prices. These accounts often have only one item listed (with a strange price, like £26.73) and no reviews or previous sales. Always take the time to check a seller’s profile for consistency and signs of legitimacy before making any purchase.
15. Communication is KEY!
I cannot emphasise it enough.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most sellers want to make a quick sale and will be happy to answer your inquiries. Whether you need more pictures, sizing information, or details about the item’s condition, clear communication will ensure you’re making a wise purchase.
Happy second-hand shopping!!
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