Shopping Pre-Loved and Vintage Can Be Overwhelming. Here Are All The Tips You Need.
As communities across the country are opening up, we have all suddenly realized we need some new pieces in our wardrobes. But after so many job losses and challenges of the year, most of us are watching our clothing budget carefully before we swipe. Shopping pre-loved is not only great for money saving but to find hidden gems and unique one-of-a-kind pieces. We recently shared our favourite tips to navigate the pre-loved space with ease on CTV Your Morning but in case you missed it, here they are.
Shop vintage for trends
Shopping pre-loved is a gold mine and you can find on-trend items in vintage stores, at pop-up events, online, and in the last few years a rise in shopping apps. One of my favourite ways to shop for new trends is Vintage stores. As a touch and feel kind of shopper, it gives me an opportunity to ask questions. Also, shopping vintage means finding cool up-to-date styles that are one of a kind. As much as fashion changes, it largely stays the same. Right now graphic tees and scarves are a hot item and you can find both pre-loved.
Read reviews
If you do not have the luxury to go into a store, reading reviews, especially for online shopping, is important. Unfortunately, just looking at images is not enough. Sometimes it is as simple as Googling a place or site before you shop there to see what other shoppers’ experience has been.
Authenticate higher ticket items
A major concern, especially for designer items, is authentication - is it real or not? Shopping from places that have an authentication policy for pre-owned high-end fashion pieces is one way to answer this question. Another way to authenticate an item is by identifying details. Most high-end leather goods come with a serial number which you can typically authenticate online through the brand’s website.
Consider shopping peer-to-peer apps
Wanna save even more? Peer-to-peer apps are where it’s at. Typically prices are a little better than stores that hold inventory. Also, buying from individual sellers can sometimes allow you to flex your bargaining skills. Especially for those higher-ticket items like designer handbags.
Sell your own unworn items online and make some cash
I am a big believer in letting go of something before adding to your closet. With a rise in peer to peer apps you can also sell to make some cash and then use that money to buy some new pieces.
Special thanks to Exile Vintage for letting us use your space. Check out their collection here.