Photo: Instagram.com/awedbymoni
When it comes to fashion, there are few things more luxurious than a designer handbag. These bags are not only stylish but also well-made, using high-quality materials. They are also very expensive, with some brands charging thousands of dollars for a single bag.
Given their high price tag, it’s not surprising that many people opt to buy secondhand designer handbags instead of new ones. After all, why pay full price when you can get the same bag for a fraction of the cost?
However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before buying a secondhand designer handbag. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know to make sure you get a great deal on a pre-loved designer bag.
The Pros of Buying a Secondhand Handbag
Every woman knows the joys of picking up a brand new designer handbag. But what about those who can’t afford to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a single bag? For these women, the next best thing is to buy a secondhand handbag.
There are several advantages to buying secondhand handbags. For one, you can often find bags that are in excellent condition and have only been lightly used. You can also save a significant amount of money by buying secondhand. And oftentimes, you can as well find rare or hard-to-find bags by shopping secondhand. If you’re on the hunt for a designer handbag but don’t want to spend a fortune, consider buying secondhand. You may be surprised at what you can find.
The Cons of Buying a Secondhand Handbag
Although there are some benefits to buying a secondhand handbag, there are also some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of. Here are a few of the cons of buying a used handbag:
- You don’t know the history of the bag. When you buy a secondhand bag, you don’t know where it’s been or who has used it before. This can be a potential issue if the bag is damaged or has been used for illegal activities.
- There may be hidden damage. When buying a used handbag, it can be difficult to spot hidden damage that may not be immediately apparent. This damage can include things like rips, stains, or weak stitching.
- The bag may not be authentic. When buying a used designer handbag, there is always the risk that the bag is not actually authentic.
How to shop for a secondhand handbag
When shopping for a secondhand handbag, it is important to keep in mind that you are not just looking for a good deal – you are also looking for a bag that is in good condition and will last you for years to come. With that in mind, here are a few tips on how to shop for a secondhand handbag:
- Do your research: Before you start shopping, it is important to do your research and know what you are looking for. This will help you narrow down your options and find a bag that suits your needs.
As per the CEO and founder of resale platform Rebag, researching is an important aspect of securing the perfect pre-owned handbag. “Researching is the key to making a successful secondhand purchase,” says Charles Gorra, CEO and founder of resale platform Rebag. “If you don’t have dozens of tabs open on your web browser, then it’s possible you haven’t done enough research.”
But how do you research? Gorra suggests that reading reviews on blogs can help to determine the condition of the handbag.
- Inspect the condition of the bag: When you are looking at a secondhand handbag, it is important to inspect it carefully to ensure that it is in good condition. Check for signs of wear and tear, such as holes, tears, or fraying.
- Buy from reputable sellers: It is always a good idea to look out for reputable sellers regardless of the product and buying your pre-owned designer handbag is no different.
For Gorra, you should always look for “sellers that are responsive and willing to give more information.” This is because any information will help in your purchase decision. Additionally, you should be wary of the product guarantee as well as the return policy, should there be any regret after purchase.
“If you’re investing in a luxury handbag, you want to be positive you’re buying from a legitimate source that authenticates bags and has an authenticity guarantee,” says Sasha Skoda, head of The RealReal’s women’s department. “Make sure you’re clear on the site or seller’s return policy, so you know what your options are if something is off.”
Tips for storing and caring for a secondhand handbag
If you’re like most people, you love the thrill of finding a great deal on a designer handbag. But once you’ve found that perfect secondhand bag, how do you make sure it stays in good condition? With a few simple tips, you can keep your secondhand handbag looking like new for years to come.
Here are a few tips for storing and caring for a secondhand handbag:
- When not in use, store your handbag in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade.
- If your handbag gets wet, let it air dry at room temperature.
- When cleaning your handbag, use a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or detergents.
- If your handbag has removable straps or other detachable parts, store them separately to avoid losing them.
