Prepare the piece properly
Check the care label before washing or steaming, then inspect the garment in daylight. Repair only when the work is sound and disclose it. Gather the brand, labelled size, fibre content, country of manufacture if shown, original accessories and any provenance you can verify. Never guess an original price or material.
- Photograph care and composition labels clearly
- Remove personal items from pockets
- List every mark, alteration and missing component
Measure and photograph for trust
Lay the garment flat without stretching and record relevant points such as pit to pit, shoulder, waist, rise, inseam and total length. State the method used. Photograph the front, back, label, texture, closures and all flaws in consistent daylight. Avoid filters that change colour or cropping that hides proportion.
- Include a scale reference for small defects
- Show how patterned fabric aligns at seams
- Describe stretch and structure separately from size
Write a complete, searchable listing
Lead with the garment type and distinguishing features, then give condition, measurements, fabric, fit observations and care. Explain any return or collection terms clearly. Answer questions with the same information provided to every interested person and update the listing if a new issue is discovered. Safe payment and handover methods should be agreed through the current channel.
- Use factual condition language instead of ‘perfect’
- Do not promise authenticity without a basis
- Mark the listing promptly when reserved or unavailable
Questions, answered.
How should I price a preloved item?
Consider current condition, verified brand and material, comparable sold items, season and the effort or fees involved. Original retail price can provide context when known, but it does not determine present value. Leave room for an honest description rather than pricing as if wear does not exist.