2023-08-30 08:17:02
In my recent opinion piece on Vinted, I came to the conclusion that our own behavior makes the platform sustainable or not. Second-hand platforms are a great facilitator to combat clothing waste, but at the same time they can also fuel a shopping hunger. Hence this blog with a handful of practical tips for using Vinted smartly. So that you can monitor the balance between great clothing finds and unnecessary impulse purchases.
Vinted tips for when you buy yourself
- Do wardrobe planning: Before you go shopping, look at what you already have and think regarding how new items will fit into your existing wardrobe. This helps you make targeted purchases that really fit your style and needs.
- Create a wish list. Make a list of items of clothing you really need (for yourself, for your children, …) before opening the Vinted platform. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulsive purchases.
- Determine your budget in advance. It is also best to determine a realistic budget before entering your search query on Vinted. Because the incentives of the platform and the feeling of exclusivity can blur your own financial boundaries.
- Check if there is a local option. It is made so damn easy for you: from behind your smartphone screen, in the seat, you can start shopping second-hand. Don’t forget that there is also a local and physical offer. Maybe even with family or friends. It’s nice if you consider this option first.
- Use filters and searches. Okay, now you can take the application ;-). Use the filters to search specifically for the items you need. This saves time and helps you avoid being distracted by other tempting offers.
- Ask yourself if the item is really necessary. Before adding an item to your cart, ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” If in doubt, don’t make a purchase. Or step back and at least sleep on it.
- Look at the quality or ask for more information. Pay attention to the item’s condition, materials, and sales information. There is so much clothing from fast fashion chains on the platform, the quality of which raises questions anyway. Dare to be critical and do not hesitate to ask the seller for additional information or images.
- Can you ever let go? Or are you sensitive to buying impulses? Set a limit. Knowing your sensibilities is already a small victory. Set the maximum number of items you want to buy on Vinted in advance. If necessary per month. This helps you to keep your purchases under control and avoid overconsumption.
Vinted tips for when you sell
- Ask yourself if there is another, better destination. Before you throw yourself into Vinted, ask yourself if there is a better destination than Vinted. Even if it’s just part of your clothes. It’s still better to consider local options than giving your clothes a second life in say France or Spain. This requires both packaging and transport.
- Provide honest descriptions. In addition to being detailed, be honest in the descriptions of the items you sell. Mention any flaws or wear and tear to avoid disappointment to the buyer and give them a realistic idea of what to expect.
- Quality over quantity. Here, too, honesty is the best policy. Only sell items that are still in good condition. Choose quality over quantity, and only offer items that you might still enjoy if you bought them. This way you contribute directly to it
- Take clear pictures. That may go without saying, but it is not always the case. Provide clear and well-lit photos of the items. Preferably photographed in daylight. This gives potential buyers a clear idea of the condition and the garment itself.
- Choose fair prices. Am I being honest once more? The goal is not to charge the highest possible price, but to provide a reasonable price that satisfies both you and the buyer. Do not sell at bottom prices either, because then you will encourage overconsumption.
- Reuse boxes and packaging. To reduce the use of disposable packaging, choose only reusable bags or cardboard boxes for your second-hand sales.
- If you really want to make a difference, provide information regarding maintenance. Provide tips on how the buyer can best maintain the item to extend its life. This encourages further care of your precious item of clothing.
- Consider donation. It’s common: you post a series of clothes on Vinted, but some of them remain unsold. For months. At some point, consider donating your clothes to charity instead of throwing them away or leaving them hanging in your wardrobe.
What you guys think regarding Vinted
Via Instagram I asked regarding the use and experiences of my community and received some nice reactions. Since we are all individuals with different habits, values and missions, I find it enlightening to show you some of the comments. Be inspired by your fellow man:
“I sell on a regular basis but rarely buy. I sell, but try to get a fair price and not give in to the ‘I-want-to-buy-an-expensive-brand-for-a-fraction-of-the-asking-price’ crowd. You notice that the culture on vinted is not really okay either, because people want to pay as little as possible in order to be able to buy a lot. I rarely, if ever, buy because I’m afraid it won’t fit and I’ll have to sell it myself. If I were to buy something, I’d choose shoes from brands I know the sizes of.” – @marie.jolie
“I sell and buy through vinted. I sell and buy interiors via marketplace. I just bought a ‘new’ cabinet for the store via marketplace. I am very focused and consciously looking for something. Eg white jeans or black jacket or rattan cupboard. Something that is missing in my wardrobe or replace something that broke. I might put more energy into sales.” – @purpose.accessories
“Nice! And thanks for looking into it. I occasionally buy and sell on Vinted. Advantage: you can search specifically for your item. Many search functions. Disadvantages I think: sometimes a bit of a hassle for a nonchalant person like me. And it’s bursting with horrible brands like Shein etc, something like that is never sustainable for me, not even second-hand. Also many sellers / buyers from abroad, would be nicer if it was just the Netherlands – Belgium. It doesn’t feel sustainable if you have to send something to Spain.” – @studionest.be
“Fascinating!!! I occasionally sell on vinted and buy regularly, but never impulsively.. (then I’m sometimes too late and it’s sold, but yes) I also search very specifically via the search bar for things that I ‘need’” – @sabsjulie
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#conscious #clothing #shopping #temptations #Eline #Rey
