More Brits are turning to second-hand clothing platforms like Depop and eBay, and expert April Salsbury offers essential advice for navigating this expanding market.
A significant shift in consumer behavior has been observed in the United Kingdom, with a growing number of individuals opting for second-hand clothing. Approximately 66 percent of Brits actively engage with online platforms such as Depop, Vinted, and eBay, making it easier than ever to participate in this trend. However, navigating the vast selection available—over 200,000 items uploaded daily—can be challenging. To aid potential buyers, second-hand expert April Salsbury, known online as @knackeredcow, provides valuable insights for those new to the second-hand market.
Addressing the importance of understanding the online jargon is critical. Salsbury outlines several terms: “BNWT” stands for “brand new with tags,” while “NWOT” refers to “new without tags.” Other acronyms include “EUC” for “excellent used condition,” and “VGUC” meaning “very good used condition.” Buyers seeking specific items must familiarize themselves with this terminology to avoid costly mistakes.
Salsbury emphasizes the necessity of using measurements rather than relying solely on sizes. Given the variability in sizing across different brands, potential buyers should measure a well-fitting garment from their own wardrobe and compare it with measurements provided by sellers. This ensures a more accurate fit, particularly important for tailored items like jackets and shirts.
The credibility of sellers is another focal point in Salsbury’s guidance. Before purchasing, she advises reviewing seller ratings and analyzing their item listings for signs of authenticity. A seller with numerous identical designer items in impeccable condition may raise red flags regarding the genuineness of those products.
In addition to scrutinizing seller descriptions for potential damage not visible in photos, Salsbury recommends shopping with an account rather than as a guest. Doing so not only streamlines the purchasing process but also enables users to receive notifications for newly listed items that match their search criteria, enhancing their chances of finding desired pieces promptly.
Regarding brands, Salsbury suggests that consumers should look for high-street labels known for their durability while avoiding fast fashion brands, which are likely to have a short lifespan. She cites Cos, & Other Stories, and Massimo Dutti as excellent options, where buyers can often find items priced around a tenth of their original retail value.
Interestingly, Salsbury points out that the men’s section can be a hidden gem for shoppers. She notes that men’s garments, particularly blazers and white dinner shirts, often exhibit higher quality and durability than similar women’s pieces. Additionally, the lower volume of men’s clothing listed online can make the shopping experience less overwhelming.
Lastly, Salsbury cautions consumers against prematurely marking items as “received.” Scammers have been known to manipulate the system by placing bricks in boxes, leading unsuspecting buyers to confirm receipt of damaged or non-existent items. She advocates for thoroughly inspecting any purchased item before acknowledging its arrival, an especially crucial practice for those who may be away from home upon delivery.
With Salsbury’s expertise, those delving into the second-hand market can navigate the challenges more effectively, potentially discovering valuable additions to their wardrobes while participating in a growing trend in sustainable fashion.
Source: Noah Wire Services
