The pre-loved market is booming, especially when it comes to designer bags. Here Charlotte Staerck, founder and CEO of The Handbag Clinic, shares how to shop smart
Shop Smart Not Harder
Some models or finishes from big luxury houses hold or grow in value. So it might be less about how much your pay today but how much the value will be locked in, protecting your asset for a later date. So before you buy: research how popular that particular model is currently, whether it’s discontinued, and whether demand looks steady or likely to increase.
Using trusted platforms is key to ensure you are paying the right price for your pre loved items. Peer to Peer platforms like Vinted and Ebay mean that the seller controls the pricing, there is rarely a true understanding of the value of the item when priced this way. A curated marketplace or reseller will have already taken into consideration how much this item is truly worth.
Our software at The Handbag Clinic tracks selling prices and number of days to sell to determine value vs demand which creates a true and fair value for the item. There also will be a set condition grading system, meaning you know the price matches the grading you expect and ultimately the best value for money
Authenticity & Trusted Source
If the price seems too good to be true if often is and you could be parting with your money for an item which is not genuine or key condition points have not be disclosed. Authentication should be a non‐negotiable. Buying from a retailer or reseller who authenticates (or gives a guarantee) is much better than taking a chance.
Condition & Restoration Potential
Check the condition (leather, hardware, stitching, lining). Considering price against current or imminent condition issues can mean repair or restoration costs add up. A bag in a heavily worn condition that requires restoration might still be a great deal — but the cost of repair should be built into what you’re willing to pay. Equally snapping up a bargain that needs a small amount of work might make it a really cost effective purchase. You can always send pictures to our team of specialists ahead of a purchase to get a view of repair costs before you commit your spending power.
Material Matters
Cost per wear is a great way to look at any preloved designer purchase and therefore a material which is going to stand the test of time. Leather has a number of possibilities for repair and restoration where as suede and fabric is restricted to predominantly cleaning. Equally caring for your items appropriately locks in long term value.
Leather should have it’s own skin care routine treats the leather like skin: clean it, moisturise it, protect it (think UV/UVB, dust, moisture), wipe handles, use dust bags. If you’re confident you can maintain it, you might stretch a little more on price.
Pick Classic Styles & Safe Colours
Although a limited edition may seem like it could one day be worth a fortune, often classic, timeless designs tend to retain value better. Styles like Chanel Classic, Mulberry Bayswater, Louis Vuitton Speedy can be picked up at a great discount from RRP on the pre loved market, however climb in value every year. Also that neutral / versatile colours tend to age better and remain in demand.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: mirror.co.uk
