The secondhand luxury goods market has exploded over the past few decades with brands like Gilt Groupe, Rue La La, The Real Real, Poshmark, and Rebag. Consumers have always been enamored with the idea of sample sales. From being strategically mentioned in shows like HBO’s Sex and the City, to finding out about them through word of mouth, they used to be invite only, where only the few had access. Now, with online platforms, the market has become more and more accessible. Even The Real Real has aired commercials on television. If you don’t mind secondhand fashion then you can get amazing deals. With all companies and corporations working to lower their carbon footprint with sustainability initiatives and such, the luxury goods markets have joined suite. In fact, the retailers themselves, like Saks Fifth Avenue’s Off5th, are starting to create programs within their own organizations for secondhand fashion.
Just the other day, while perusing the Off5th website, one can find handbags of the secondhand nature. Brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Fendi can be found in their pre-owned handbags section. Even Gucci has joined in with their own spin on the pre-owned luxury goods market. Instead of only selling secondhand items from their lines, they have opted to take sustainability to the next level. In steps Gucci’s Vault. It is a virtual concept that includes an avenue to purchase restored Gucci vintage pieces that have been reimagined by new up and coming designers. Oscar de la Renta entered the stage with the platform Encore, where the fashion house makes vintage runway pieces available for purchase from the Oscar de la Renta brand itself. Something that was unheard of in years past.
