I feel confident in saying that 90% of my clothes are bought second-hand now. It feels odd to me to buy from fast-fashion stores anymore. Instead, I shop on Vinted, in charity shops and take things second-hand from family members. This has meant I now have a second-hand wardrobe that I’m proud of and feels guilt free.
Let’s talk about what I’ve learned from shopping on Vinted for a few years now and what advice I’d give to you if you’re looking to do the same.
Double check the size
I’ve made the mistake of getting too excited by an item and it’s price that I just click buy without being 100% sure of the size! This is especially an issue because the size ranges are very different. It can say S or size 8 to 10 but is the item more an 8, or a 10? I’m a 10, not an 8! It can be annoying but it can be worth asking for the measurements of the item to be sure it will fit and avoid disappointment.
Also, check the brand and think about your size relative to that brand. Not all brands have the same sizing!
Check ALL pictures & ask for more if needed
In the same vein, don’t get so excited that you don’t check all of the pictures. People often put the worst pictures at the end of the carousel. The ones where marks are shown or stains. It could also be useful to just double check by messaging them and asking if there’s any marks or signs of heavy wear.
Trousers are the hardest to get right
I’ve found that the item I struggle to get right the most is trousers. I have a petite waist, medium bum, and thick thighs. I’m also quite short. This means getting the right trousers is so incredibly hard! 9 times out of 10, they don’t fit in one area of another so I’ve found unless I’m 100% sure, maybe trousers bought online aren’t for me. I need to be able to try them on before I buy.
Don’t skip on charity shops / second-hand stores
Vinted is fantastic when you’re looking for something specific but don’t turn your nose up at charity shops and second-hand stores. I have found lovely items from there for a low price and you know that your money goes to supporting the less fortunate.
Look at this outfit I bought for under £10!
Vinted tips
- If you see something on a fast fashion or expensive site, screenshot the image (or take a picture of the item if you’re in store) and you can use the image search function on Vinted to find that item or ones like it
- Be careful of AI pictures: the model may look too perfect, the background of images may look too clean or fake and differ picture to picture, or something may look off like a lamp or a phone or a small detail that’s rendered wrong
- Try a variety of different search terms to find what you’re looking for:
- Top -> t-shirt
- Swimsuit -> swimming costume -> swim wear -> bikini -> tankini-> one piece swim suit
- Be really specific: don’t just look for a blouse, what kind of blouse? A particular colour? Certain neckline? Sleeve length? Buttons all the way through or halfway? Patterned?
- The seller is your hub for info, don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure it’s what you want
- **Double check the item is right before accepting the order: I’ve been too quick to accept before, only to later realise they have sent me the wrong item! Once you accept, you can’t get a refund so slow down, double check and be sure
Happy secondhand shopping! Save the planet and your pocket by being thrifty!
Sincerely,
S. xx
S. R. Crawford 