There’s no doubt that shopping second-hand has surged in popularity in recent years, as we all become more conscious about the environmental impact of our clothes. In fact, an Oxfam report from last year – released to mark its annual Second-Hand September campaign – found that if every adult in the UK bought half of their wardrobes second-hand, it would save on CO2 emissions equivalent to flying around the world a whopping 17,000 times.
Luckily, a whole host of resale sites has popped up in recent years, making it easier than ever to make a more sustainable purchase. Plus, as the likes of Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna have shown, buying pre-loved fashion means you’re likely to be the only person in the room to have that piece – making it extra special.
Below, see our pick of the best second-hand sites to shop online.
eBay
The OG resale site, eBay has long been a favourite for fashion editors hunting down the gems that got away the first time around. Now, the platform’s authenticity guarantee for sneakers, handbags and watches means you can shop with even more confidence.
Hardly Ever Worn it
Founded in 2012, the idea for Hardly Ever Worn It (HEWI) came about when CEO Tatiana Wolter-Ferguson, her mum Sharon and sister Natalya realised that there were so many pieces in their wardrobe that they had hardly worn. From Chanel minidresses to Jacquemus bags, the website is full of gems that are waiting to find a new home.
Vestiaire Collective
Founded in 2009, Vestiaire Collective is Europe’s biggest resale site for luxury fashion –with 25,000 pieces added to the platform every day. As there’s no shortage of choice, search for your favourite brands or the exact piece you’re looking for to avoid being overwhelmed.
Farfetch Pre-Owned
While a growing number of retailers are now integrating resale onto their sites, Farfetch has long been ahead of the game, launching its pre-owned section back in 2010. Fitting in seamlessly with the rest of its offering, the e-tailer allows you to shop second-hand while enjoying the same luxury experience it provides for those shopping brand new.
Comme des Garçons
Pre-Owned Sheer Lace Dress
Depop
There’s a reason that Depop is Gen Z’s favourite resale site, with the app being full of Y2K gems. Whether you’re looking for unsigned vintage gems or designer pieces, the resale platform comes with the approval of Bella Hadid.
Vinted
Another long-standing player in the resale space, Vinted is the place to go for cult brands for lower prices. The platform offers an Item Verification service across 48 select brands, which applies to purchases over £100 in the bags, shoes, accessories and jewellery categories.
Reluxe
Launched by stylist Clare Richardson in February 2022, Reluxe provides a curated luxury offering, with many pieces being hand-picked from the wardrobes of fashion’s most stylish women. Expect to find the likes of Phoebe Philo-era Céline, Prada and Balenciaga on the site.
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Celine
2013 Grained Leather Pre-Owned Large Edge Shoulder Bag
Sellier
Specialising in pre-loved designer bags, Sellier is your go-to for accessories from top luxury brands, such as Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Hermès – they also have an ongoing partnership with Matches, where you’ll find a selection of designer bags. The store has a team of experts to authenticate its pieces, making the resale process as smooth as possible.
Retold
For those with a more minimalist aesthetic, Retold is the resale site for you. Its collection spans Burberry trench coats and ’90s Max Mara. Founder Clare Lewis curates weekly drops that are snapped up soon after they hit the website–make sure you subscribe to the Retold newsletter to avoid missing out.
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Lampoo
If you’re searching for quiet luxury – think brands like The Row, Khaite and Nanushka – then it’s worth trying Lampoo. With offices in both Milan and London, the site is perfect for those looking to build a capsule wardrobe, while avoiding buying brand-new pieces.
Rites
Founded by Sustainable Department Store’s Meg O’Hara, Rites is a resale and rental platform designed to promote circular fashion. With high-end brands, such as Prada and Balenciaga, featuring on the site alongside contemporary labels, such as Aje, Stine Goya and Matteau, there’s something to suit every style.
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1stDibs
For those looking to snap up a piece of fashion history, 1stDibs is the site for you. Whether you’re looking for a rare Jean Paul Gaultier dress or a Vivienne Westwood corset, the platform is particularly popular amongst vintage dealers and collectors.
The RealReal
While The RealReal may be based in the US, its vast selection of luxury pieces means that it’s well worth trawling through, even from the UK. Just make sure you bear in mind any additional import taxes and custom duties that will be added on at checkout.
