Regardless of your budget, anyone who enjoys fashion should know the amazing resource that is a consignment shop. Whether they specialize in luxury items or offer a range of high street and high fashion, consignment shops are great places to find rare, limited edition, unique items. The catch is that you have to check often and know where to look. Selling your own items to a consignment store is also a really thrifty way of budgeting for next season’s wardrobe. So how do you get started on your journey? Read ahead for some tips when it comes to selling and buying consignment.
Consigning with Confidence: Tips to Shopping & Selling
BUYING
Set aside plenty of time: One of the great things about visiting a consignment store is the large variety of items they will have to offer. Unfortunately, this also means you’ll plenty of time and patience to sort through them, even under the best of circumstances and organization. But this is also part of the fun.
Look out for sales: Many shops offer constant deals in an effort to get the merchandise to move quickly. Check out tags and coupons, and be sure to talk to a sales associate before shopping.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate: Though this may not be the case for all shops, many are open to offers on certain items. Don’t be afraid to ask. Often, if there is some light wear and tear, the price may be up for discussion.
Make sure you love it: Before deciding to purchase your item, make sure you absolutely love it. Many consignment shops won’t take returns or exchanges.
Check your online options: Visit various sites such as The Real Real and Threadflip for the best chances of finding something you love for the best price.
SELLING
Visit a few local shops: Consigning locally means you can keep an eye on your merchandise and its progress. Many shops will offer online accounts to track your merchandise sales as well. Search for reviews, ask friends, and be aware of the shops reputation before trusting your items to them. And be aware of the split of profit, the length of the consignment period (usually 60 – 90 days), and what will happen to the items once the selling period is over. Also be sure to ask whether you’ll need to pick up your checks or whether they will be mailed to you.
Try an online consignment store: The Real Real, ThredUP, Poshmark, and Threadflip are just a few reputable internet sources for like-new, high end items such as designer handbags, luxury shoes and apparel. Many of these will offer free shipping, complimentary consignment kits, and higher-than-usual percentage splits on profit.
For even more answers to your questions about consignment, visit NARTS, the Association of Resale Professionals for a pro-guide to shopping pre-owned goods. To find a store in your local area, click here.
