I feel like there used to be a bit of a stigma surrounding buying pre-loved items. Some people believe that you only buy ‘second hand’ when you can’t afford to buy brand new. This is really not the case and buying pieces that have been pre-owned is actually something of a trend. Stores specialising in these kinds of items are popping all over the place, online and on the high street.

There are so many benefits to buying pre-owned pieces. The name itself conjours up images of items that have been lovingly cared for. The majority of the time that is the case. I have put together some reasons why there is no shame in buying pre-loved designer. In the interest of a balanced arguement I have also added the only disadvantage I can think of.

Advantages of Buying Pre-Loved

Helping the environment

With the rise of fast fashion the industry can be pretty wasteful. Aside from manufacturing it is important to take into account the amount of clothing that ends up in landfill. If you know longer want or need something there is nothing wrong with giving or selling it on to someone who does. I regularly give clothes to charity to be sold second hand. Purchasing pre-owned or second hand designer should be encouraged, after all you might even find that perfect piece you couldn’t get your hands on brand new.

Saves you money

I don’t know about you but I don’r have endless amounts of money to spend on clothes and accessories, let alone on designer items. It is possible to get your hands on beautiful pieces for a fraction of the original, brand new price. Just think what you could do with the money you’re saving.

Pieces are often brand new

How many times have you bought something for a night out or a special occasion and then never worn it again. There are also those pieces you order in the wrong size and miss the return date for. Just think about how many other people have done exactly the same. I have gone on to pre-loved websites so many times and come across bags and clothes that have only be worn once. Often they are even brand new. And still they are still so much cheaper than brand new.

Chance to pick up vintage and limited edition

The thing with fashion is that trends always come round again. An item that came from the 80s is always going to look better and obviously be more authentic than a piece that looks like it came from the 80s. The quality of a vintage piece of clothing will always be much higher than a cheap replica off the high street, and it will last so much longer.

Disadvantage

The only real disadvantage for me is that you miss out on the luxury sales experience of going into the store. If I was going to Dior to buy a bag the whole day would be centred around it. I would probably go with a friend who loves designer just as much as me. We would go for lunch, drink Champagne and make a real day of it. It isn’t the same buying online. However, if this isn’t important to you and you would much rather just save the money; then go for it!