Selling clothes online is a popular way to declutter wardrobes and earn some extra cash. It can also be a great way to launch a business, whether you’re dropshipping or making the clothing yourself. Various e-commerce solutions cater to different needs and preferences, offering unique features and benefits. Here’s a breakdown of some prominent options:
thredUP
Founded in 2009, thredUP is a major online consignment and thrift store that specializes in secondhand clothing, and it’s also one of the easiest to use. This is because sellers send their clothes to thredUP, and the company takes care of everything from photography to pricing. For those who prefer a hassle-free selling experience, thredUP is ideal. However, sellers have less control over pricing and longer wait times for items to sell. They’ll send you a Clean Out Kit, which is a bag for you to ship your items to them. They’ll inspect every nook and cranny of the item to look for wear and tear. Only 50% of items are accepted, so make sure to only send in your best stuff.
eBay
As one of the oldest C2C online marketplaces, eBay allows sellers to reach a huge audience. However, it’s not just consumers selling on it. People have made entire businesses off selling their clothing on eBay. It offers flexibility in how you sell—auction-style listings or fixed-price formats. This platform is suitable for both casual sellers and those with more unique or high-end clothing items. The key advantage of eBay is its extensive reach and the ability to set your prices, but it requires more effort from the seller in terms of listing, shipping and customer interaction.
Depop
Depop caters to a younger, trendier audience, focusing on unique and vintage clothing. It operates much like a social media platform where sellers can create a following and interact with potential buyers. Depop is ideal for sellers with an eye for fashion trends and those who enjoy social media marketing. However, its niche audience may limit the potential buyer pool for more common clothing items. You can list up to four photos before setting your own prices for your listing.
Shopify
For those looking to establish their own brand or online store, Shopify is one of the best e-commerce platforms, and not just because it’s used by millions of brands in 175 countries (brands such as SKIMS, Netflix, Kylie Cosmetics and Mattel). It offers customization, branding options and complete control over pricing and inventory. While Shopify requires more initial setup and a monthly fee, it’s an excellent choice for serious sellers who want to build a business and have complete autonomy over their sales process.
While Shopify offers great autonomy and customization for sellers, some customers express hesitation due to its relatively hands-off approach in dealing with fraudulent sellers; instances of buyers receiving no communication or products from a store, with minimal intervention from Shopify even after complaints, are notable concerns shared by many in online forums.
Poshmark
Poshmark creates a community-focused environment for buying and selling clothes. It combines elements of social media with e-commerce, allowing sellers to build a following and engage with customers. Poshmark is suitable for those who enjoy community interaction and have a keen fashion sense. The platform takes a percentage of each sale, but its social nature can lead to a loyal customer base.
Etsy
Etsy is known for handmade and vintage items, and it’s a great platform for selling unique or artisanal clothing. It’s especially suitable for sellers with a niche product, such as handmade garments or vintage finds. Etsy’s audience appreciates the craftsmanship and uniqueness, providing a supportive environment for specialized sellers. However, it may not be the best choice for more everyday clothing items.
Vinted
Vinted offers a simple platform for selling used clothes. It’s user-friendly and free to list items, making it a great option for casual sellers. Vinted allows you to set your prices and communicate directly with buyers, giving you control over your sales. It’s particularly suitable for those looking to sell gently used everyday clothing.
Bottom Line
Whether it’s the convenience of thredUP, the eclectic audience of Depop or the discerning eye of The RealReal, your success hinges on matching your wardrobe to the right stage. It’s about more than just unloading clothes; it’s about finding the right eyes to appreciate the stories woven into your garments.
