One of the exciting things about looking for things to sell on
eBay is that merchandise can be found almost anywhere. In this
excerpt of How
to Sell Clothing, Shoes and Accessories on eBay, we'll
provide you with resources, ideas, and insider tips on how and
where to look for specific items to sell. If you want to sell
“new-with-tags” clothing and accessories, you can find
out how to approach vendors and manufacturers, as well as develop a
sharp eye for seasonal items that have been significantly reduced.
Sellers who specialize in vintage wear or other types of secondhand
clothing will discover that after their closets have been emptied,
garage sales and thrift shops are not the only reliable sources to
find good bargains.
What’s Hot
Start by taking a closer look at some of the areas of interest
within the Clothing, Shoes, and Accessories category on eBay and
the impact they have on the fashion industry:
Name Brands
Designer labels such as Prada, Coach, and Banana Republic have
always been a runway hit in the world of fashion--whether it is new
or used clothing, shoes, or accessories. And this doesn’t
just apply to adults. Today’s teenagers are obsessed with
name brands, although their wallets may not support their
increasingly sophisticated tastes. Also, during recent years a
number of high-end designers have introduced clothing lines
specifically for babies and children. By targeting the younger
generation, these savvy marketers are hoping to establish brand
loyalty that will last through adulthood. Of course this passion
for fashion can take its toll on bank accounts and credit cards,
and that is where venues like eBay come in.
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When it comes to children’s clothing, gently used name
brands such as Gap, Gymboree, Old Navy, Osh Kosh B’Gosh, or
Carters (just to name a few) are always in high demand. They wash
up extremely well and can be sold in “like new”
condition.
Brand-New with Tags
New clothing and accessories that are sporting original retail tags
are always a big draw for eBay consumers because it has never been
worn by anyone else. Also, new-with-tag (NWT) items don’t
have to be a name brand to be a hot item. Although some retailers
are starting to get in on the action by auctioning their own store
items, just remember that on eBay everyone is on a level playing
field.
Secondhand
Gently used clothing and accessories are a mainstay for eBay
sellers and buyers alike. Items that are in good
condition--preferably “like new”--can bring top dollar,
especially in subcategories for children, maternity, special
occasion, vintage, or if they feature designer labels. Make sure to
check items for tears, stains, or other blemishes. If something has
a ripped seam or missing button and is otherwise in good shape,
patch it up to be resold for a higher profit.
Vintage
Vintage is one of the top areas on eBay. Vintage wear are fashions
and accessories that are no longer made, hard to find, and in big
demand. To familiarize yourself with vintage designs, study old
magazines and patterns to see how they are constructed. Teach
yourself how to recognize true vintage wear by analyzing its style,
fabric, label, and the way it’s sewn. Research successfully
closed eBay auctions and join focus groups to network with industry
professionals. Purchase vintage clothing pricing guides so that you
can educate yourself on values. This will come in especially handy
if you are getting ready to pass over a $20 dingy leather jacket
that was made by the East West Musical Instruments Company in the
1960s and is now worth over $3,000.
Custom-Made
Handcrafted and personalized “boutique” items have
always commanded a big presence on eBay because people love having
things that are one-of-a-kind. Selling custom-made items can seem a
bit daunting, but many crafters have found eBay to be a great
source of revenue because of its huge audience. And even if you are
not personally a crafty person, consider entering into a joint
venture partnership with someone who is, and splitting the profits.
Or you can purchase the items directly from the crafter and resell
them on eBay, keeping the profits for yourself.
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