Refreshing your wardrobe should be a fun and rewarding experience, not a stressful one. If you love finding unique pieces but don't love high price tags, shopping secondhand is a fantastic solution. It’s a practical way to discover high-quality clothing at a fraction of the original cost, all while being a little kinder to the planet. Plus, you get to find items with character that you won’t see everywhere else.

Shopping for pre-owned clothing online has become easier and more reliable than ever. You can browse from the comfort of your home and find everything from designer labels to everyday basics. This guide will walk you through some of the best online secondhand stores for clothes, helping you find great deals and build a wardrobe you love.

Top Online Secondhand Stores to Check Out

These platforms are leaders in the online resale market, each offering a slightly different experience. Whether you’re looking for a luxury handbag or a reliable pair of jeans, there’s a site for you.

thredUP

Think of thredUP as a massive online consignment store. It’s one of the largest and most organized platforms for secondhand clothing, making it incredibly easy to browse and shop. They process all the items themselves, so you can expect consistent photos and descriptions.

  • What It Offers: You can find a huge variety of women's and kids' clothing from thousands of brands, ranging from Gap and J.Crew to more high-end labels like Kate Spade and Vince.
  • Pricing: Prices are very affordable, and the site frequently runs sales and promotions. You can often find items for up to 90% off the original retail price.
  • Why We Like It: The sheer volume and organization make it a go-to. You can filter by size, brand, color, and condition, which saves a lot of time. Their "Goody Box" service even offers a curated selection sent to your home to try.

Poshmark

Poshmark is a social marketplace where users sell directly to one another. It has a vibrant community feel, and you can often interact with sellers by asking questions or making offers on items.

  • What It Offers: Poshmark has a wide selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories for women, men, and kids. You can find everything from fast fashion to luxury brands, often in great condition.
  • Pricing: Prices are set by individual sellers, so they can vary. The great thing is that you can often negotiate the price by making an offer, which can lead to some excellent deals.
  • Why We Like It: The social aspect is fun, and the ability to negotiate prices is a huge plus. It’s a great place to hunt for specific items you’ve been looking for.

The RealReal

If you’re in the market for luxury goods, The RealReal is the place to go. It’s a consignment site that specializes in authenticated, high-end designer clothing, handbags, shoes, and jewelry.

  • What It Offers: This is your destination for brands like Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. Every item is authenticated by a team of experts, so you can shop with confidence, knowing you’re getting the real deal.
  • Pricing: While these are luxury items, they are sold at a significant discount compared to their original prices. The RealReal also has regular sales, making designer fashion more accessible.
  • Why We Like It: The authentication process provides peace of mind when you’re investing in a high-end piece. It's a reliable way to own luxury for less.

Depop

Depop feels like a mix between a social media platform and a marketplace, with a strong focus on vintage and unique street-style fashion. It's particularly popular with younger audiences but offers treasures for everyone.

  • What It Offers: You'll find a lot of vintage items from the '80s, '90s, and early 2000s, as well as one-of-a-kind, upcycled pieces from creative sellers. It’s the perfect place to find something truly unique.
  • Pricing: Like Poshmark, prices are set by individual sellers. It’s a great platform for finding cool, trendy items at very reasonable prices.
  • Why We Like It: If you're looking for clothing with personality and a vintage flair, Depop is hard to beat. The visual, Instagram-like layout makes browsing fun and inspiring.

Tips for Smart Secondhand Shopping Online

Shopping for pre-owned clothes online can be a treasure hunt. Here are a few tips to help you get the best results.

1. Know Your Measurements

Sizing can vary a lot between brands and even within the same brand over time. Since you can't try things on, knowing your measurements is key. Keep your bust, waist, and hip measurements handy. Many sellers will include the item’s measurements in the description, which is far more reliable than just going by the size on the tag.

2. Read Descriptions and Check Photos Carefully

Pay close attention to the item description. Sellers should note any flaws like stains, missing buttons, or small tears. Zoom in on the photos to inspect the item's condition for yourself. Don't be shy about asking the seller for more photos or information if you need it.

3. Understand the Return Policy

Before you buy, make sure you know the return policy. Some sites, like thredUP, have a clear return process, though you may have to pay for shipping. On platforms where you buy from individuals, like Poshmark or Depop, sales are often final unless the item was not as described. Knowing the policy beforehand can prevent disappointment.

4. Use Filters and Save Your Searches

These sites can have millions of items, so use the filters to your advantage. Narrow your search by size, brand, color, and price range to avoid getting overwhelmed. If you’re looking for a specific item, you can often save your search and get notified when a new one is listed.

Shopping for secondhand clothing online is a smart and enjoyable way to enhance your wardrobe. It gives you access to an incredible variety of styles and brands at prices that are much easier on your budget. It’s also a more sustainable choice that helps reduce fashion waste.