Vinted, the popular online marketplace for pre-loved fashion, has just launched an authentication service, allowing its users to buy luxury secondhand pieces in confidence.
The platform now offers verification on its higher-priced items, which will all be examined by a trained team of experts. The service, which is applied automatically, costs £10 per item at brands listed at £100 or above. The fee is covered by the person purchasing the item, rather than the seller. Members should look out for the verification badge once they select an eligible listing.
Adopting a circular shopping model is vital for the wellbeing of our planet; according to Vinted’s Climate Impact Report, buying a secondhand fashion item instead of a new one saves on average 1.8 kg CO₂e (carbon dioxide equivalent).
“Secondhand luxury items are not only better for your wallet but also the climate,” Cecile Wickmann, senior director of luxury at Vinted, tells Bazaar. “Qualitative and high-value items are made to last and therefore, are great to be passed on. Offering the ability to buy and sell designer and luxury products easily and with confidence is part of our journey to making secondhand first choice for more people.”
She adds: “Our mission at Vinted is to make secondhand the first choice worldwide, extending the life of fashion items and contributing to reducing the negative impact of the fashion industry on the climate.”
Below, Wickmann shares Vinted’s top tips for successful secondhand designer shopping, both on its platform and beyond.
Top tips for selling luxury items
1/ “Take good care of your item. Diligent care upholds the financial worth of your items, since products in great condition increase the chances of selling well. For bags, a regular wipe to remove dust and grime can keep your items in good condition for years. Use high-quality products suitable for the specific material. Store them in a dry place, ideally in a dust bag, and avoid direct sunlight.
2/ “Don’t forget to keep proof of authenticity. When buying your items in the first place, remember to keep or save a picture of the receipt or certificate of authenticity. This will be an important ‘proof’ for your secondhand listings. Ideally keep accessories for the items too, such as cardboard boxes and dust bags. This can increase the resale price of the item later if you decide to sell it again.
3/ “Share details. Luxury and higher-priced items showcase craftsmanship and value in unique, premium details. When selling these items, it’s important to take close-up pictures of the logo, stitching lines, packaging and dust bag, serial number, hardware (like zips and clasps) and label to help shoppers determine authenticity more easily. A description with keywords about the item is also helpful.”
How to successfully search for specific pieces
“Follow brands and hashtags, then save certain searches so you can come back later to see if any newly uploaded listings match your search term. Marking items as ‘favourites’ or adding to a ‘wishlist’ will also keep you informed about price reductions, and following your favourite sellers will ensure that you know when they list a new item.
“Remember that buying luxury or premium secondhand is like a treasure hunt. It’s fun and surprisingly easy, but it does need some research and patience. If you want to score a vintage piece from a certain period or a very specific item, you will have to dig deep. Sometimes, after lots of searching, negotiating or waiting, you’ll come across that one item that makes all that time worth it.”
How to guarantee an item is right for you
“As well as using our verification hub, dare to ask sellers. Most Vinted members will be happy to provide you with additional photos or information. Finally, be realistic in your expectations; pre-loved items can come with some signs of usage, but if you research the items online (and, when possible, also offline) and know your product inside-out, you won’t be disappointed.”
