The platform that makes luxury fashion lovers buy second hand

Dress from Ganni, material; viscose and the location is Netherlands for 770 SEK.

Bag from Gucci, material; suede and the location is Singapore for 1761 SEK.

Bag from Saint Laurent, material; leather and the location is France for 9083 SEK.

Jacket from Calvin Klein, material; denim-jeans and the location is Italy 1495 SEK.

Vestiaire Collective started in 2009 with the business model to create a carefully selected catalogue of wanted items that are checked to ensure quality and authenticity. They call themselves the leading online marketplace to buy and sell authenticated pre-owned luxury fashion. With offices in Paris, London, New York, Berlin, Milan and Hong Kong and 300 people employed, you can definitely say that’s the case. Their community got 7 million members who are located in 50 different countries. Around 25 000 items are transported to their offices every week to get sold!

I’m not sure if I’m going to be impressed about this online platform being able to extend the lifespan of so many fashion items or worried about the consumerism in the world. Surely, several of these items has probably never been worn before and some might even be worn only for a few occasions before being sold again to a lower price. That’s the thing with luxury fashion, to buy an expensive bag and to use it for a year or two can be equal the amount of money you would have to spend if you bought a fast fashion bag. A luxury bag can easily be sold again without making to much of a price-discount.

Another aspect is the globalisation of the company. In one regard it’s positive with a large market platform since the items are more likely to find a new buyer. The problem with local second hand shops is the fact there might not be a demand for their products on which they are sold. Online, it’s more likely for supply to meet demand. However, shipping also comes with a climate and environmental cost but what few realise is that the overall climate benefit of reusing what’s already been produced is far grater even if it includes shipping.

While searching for items on Vestiaire Collective, I’m also happy to see that it’s not only Gucci, Saint Laurent or other luxury brands but also more affordable ones such as Ganni. Brands who’s design people might love but not be able to afford first handed. This makes this platform a very good option for fashion lovers with small or large wallets.

However, still remember to carefully consider your purchase. You don’t want to end up selling it again in a short time period causing some climate impact due to transportation..