Top Sites To Sell Clothes Online & Make Money

Are you looking to declutter your closet and make some extra cash? Selling clothes online has become a popular way to give your pre-loved items a new home while padding your wallet. With numerous platforms available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best sites to sell clothes online, covering their pros, cons, fees, and target audience, so you can make an informed decision and start selling successfully.

Why Sell Clothes Online?

Before we dive into the platforms, let's quickly discuss why selling clothes online is such a great option. First off, it's super convenient! You can manage everything from the comfort of your own home, listing items whenever you have the time. Plus, you're reaching a massive audience, far beyond what a local consignment shop could offer. Online marketplaces provide access to buyers across the country, and even the globe, increasing your chances of making a sale. Not to mention, it's an eco-friendly choice, giving your clothes a second life and reducing textile waste. So, if you've got a closet full of gently used items, why not turn them into cash?

Top Platforms to Sell Clothes Online

Okay, guys, let's get into the nitty-gritty! We're going to break down some of the top platforms for selling clothes online, looking at what makes each one unique and who they're best suited for. We'll cover everything from fees to ease of use, so you can find the perfect fit for your selling style. Let’s explore the best options available and see which platform aligns perfectly with your selling goals.

1. Poshmark: The Social Marketplace

Poshmark is a social marketplace that's all about fashion. It’s like Instagram meets eBay, creating a vibrant community where buying and selling clothes is a social experience. You list your items, share them with your followers, and even participate in virtual “Posh Parties” – themed selling events that boost visibility. This platform is fantastic for those who enjoy the social aspect of selling and are willing to engage with buyers. Think of it as a digital boutique where you can connect with other fashion lovers.

Why Poshmark is Great:

• Social Selling: Poshmark's social features make it fun and engaging. Sharing your listings and interacting with other users can lead to more sales.
• Posh Parties: These virtual events are a great way to get your items seen by a wider audience.
• Easy to Use App: The Poshmark app is user-friendly and makes listing items a breeze. You can snap photos, write descriptions, and set prices all from your phone.
• Wide Audience: Poshmark has a large and active user base, increasing your chances of finding a buyer.
• Suitable for Various Brands: Whether you're selling high-end designer pieces or everyday brands, Poshmark caters to a diverse range of styles and price points. From luxury labels to your favorite mall brands, you'll find a market for almost anything.

Things to Consider:

• High Fees: Poshmark takes a flat commission of $2.95 for sales under $15 and a 20% commission for sales of $15 or more. These fees can eat into your profits, so factor them into your pricing strategy.
• Shipping: Poshmark provides prepaid shipping labels, which is convenient, but the cost is included in the buyer's price. This can make your items seem more expensive compared to other platforms.
• Active Engagement Required: To be successful on Poshmark, you need to be active, sharing listings, following other users, and participating in Posh Parties. It's not a set-it-and-forget-it platform.

Who is Poshmark Best For?

Poshmark is ideal for sellers who enjoy a social selling experience and are comfortable with the higher fees. If you have a knack for styling and engaging with potential buyers, this platform can be a goldmine. It's also great for those selling trendy, in-demand items, as the social aspect can help drive sales. If you love the idea of connecting with other fashion enthusiasts and building a community around your closet, Poshmark might just be your perfect match.

2. Mercari: The Versatile Marketplace

Mercari is a versatile marketplace that's not just for clothes. You can sell almost anything on Mercari, from electronics to home goods. However, it’s still a fantastic option for selling clothes, especially if you’re looking for a platform with lower fees than Poshmark. Mercari’s appeal lies in its simplicity and broad user base. It's a great place to declutter your entire home, not just your closet, making it a one-stop-shop for selling your unwanted items.

Why Mercari is Great:

• Lower Fees: Mercari charges a 10% selling fee, which is lower than Poshmark's 20% commission on sales over $15. This means you get to keep more of your earnings.
• Variety of Items: You can sell almost anything on Mercari, making it a great option for decluttering your entire home.
• Simple Listing Process: Mercari's listing process is straightforward and easy to use. You can quickly upload photos, write descriptions, and set prices.
• Flexible Shipping Options: You can choose to ship items yourself or use Mercari's prepaid shipping labels. This flexibility allows you to find the most cost-effective shipping solution.
• Good for a Wide Range of Items: Mercari is a great platform for selling everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and collectibles, so you can diversify your listings.

Things to Consider:

• Less Social: Mercari lacks the social features of Poshmark, so you'll need to rely more on listings and pricing to attract buyers.
• Shipping Costs: If you choose to ship items yourself, you'll need to calculate and cover the shipping costs. This can be time-consuming and potentially eat into your profits if not done correctly.
• Customer Service: Some users have reported issues with Mercari's customer service, so it's essential to be proactive in resolving any issues with buyers.

Who is Mercari Best For?

Mercari is an excellent choice for sellers who want a straightforward platform with lower fees. If you're selling a variety of items and prefer a less social selling experience, Mercari might be the perfect fit. It’s also great for those who want more control over shipping options and costs. If you value simplicity and a broad marketplace, Mercari offers a user-friendly way to sell your clothes and other items.

3. thredUP: The Consignment Giant

thredUP is the largest online consignment store, making it a convenient option for those who don't want to handle the listing and shipping process themselves. You simply send your clothes to thredUP, and they'll handle the rest. This is a fantastic option for those who value convenience above all else, as thredUP takes care of the entire selling process for you.

Why thredUP is Great:

• Hands-Off Selling: thredUP handles the listing, photography, and shipping, making it a hassle-free option for sellers.
• Convenience: Simply send your clothes in a thredUP Clean Out Kit, and they'll do the rest.
• Large Audience: thredUP has a massive user base, increasing the chances of your items being sold.
• Sustainable Focus: thredUP promotes sustainable fashion, attracting buyers who are environmentally conscious.
• Easy to Use: The thredUP platform is incredibly user-friendly, both for sellers and buyers, making the entire process seamless.

Things to Consider:

• Lower Payouts: thredUP's payouts are lower than other platforms, as they take a significant commission. The payout structure can be complex, and you might not make as much as you would on other platforms.
• Processing Time: It can take several weeks for thredUP to process your items, and not all items will be accepted. If you need cash quickly, this might not be the best option.
• Limited Control: You have limited control over the pricing and listing descriptions. thredUP sets the prices based on their algorithms and market analysis.

Who is thredUP Best For?

thredUP is perfect for sellers who value convenience and don't mind receiving lower payouts. If you have a large volume of clothes to sell and want a hands-off approach, thredUP is a great option. It's also ideal for those who support sustainable fashion and want to give their clothes a second life without the hassle of managing listings and shipping. If you prioritize ease and convenience over maximizing profits, thredUP is the way to go.

4. The RealReal: Luxury Consignment

The RealReal is a luxury consignment marketplace specializing in high-end designer clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories. If you have luxury items to sell, this is the place to be. The RealReal authenticates all items, ensuring buyers are getting genuine designer goods, which builds trust and attracts a high-end clientele. This platform is a go-to for selling luxury items, offering a secure and reputable environment for both buyers and sellers.

Why The RealReal is Great:

• Luxury Focus: The RealReal specializes in luxury items, attracting a high-end clientele willing to pay more for quality and authenticity.
• Authentication Services: The RealReal authenticates all items, giving buyers confidence and sellers a premium for their goods.
• High Payouts for Luxury Items: You can earn significant payouts for your designer items on The RealReal.
• Personalized Service: The RealReal offers in-home pickup and consignment services, making it even more convenient for sellers with high-value items.
• Wide Reach: With a large and affluent customer base, The RealReal offers unparalleled reach for your luxury items.

Things to Consider:

• Strict Acceptance Criteria: The RealReal has strict standards for the items they accept, so your items must be in excellent condition and from recognized luxury brands.
• Higher Fees: The RealReal's commission structure can be complex and varies based on the item's selling price. Fees can be higher compared to other platforms.
• Longer Processing Times: Due to the authentication process and high standards, it can take longer for your items to be listed and sold.

Who is The RealReal Best For?

The RealReal is ideal for sellers with high-end designer items in excellent condition. If you have luxury clothing, handbags, shoes, or accessories, this platform can help you maximize your returns. It's also great for those who appreciate the authentication process and personalized service. If you're looking to sell luxury items and want to ensure they reach the right buyers, The RealReal is your best bet.

5. Depop: The Gen Z Favorite

Depop is a social shopping app popular with Gen Z, known for its vintage, streetwear, and unique fashion finds. It's a vibrant community where users buy, sell, and connect over fashion. If your style leans towards trendy, vintage, or one-of-a-kind pieces, Depop is the place to be. The platform's youthful energy and focus on individual style make it a hotspot for unique fashion items.

Why Depop is Great:

• Gen Z Audience: Depop's primary audience is Gen Z, making it perfect for selling trendy and vintage items that appeal to this demographic.
• Social Shopping Experience: Like Poshmark, Depop has a strong social element, allowing you to connect with buyers and build a following.
• Easy to Use App: The Depop app is user-friendly and designed for mobile selling, making it easy to list items and manage your shop on the go.
• Focus on Unique Style: Depop celebrates individuality and unique style, making it a great platform for selling vintage, handmade, and one-of-a-kind items.
• Global Reach: Depop has a global user base, allowing you to sell your items to buyers around the world.

Things to Consider:

• Lower Prices: Prices on Depop tend to be lower than on other platforms, as the target audience is often looking for deals.
• Competition: There's a lot of competition on Depop, so you'll need to work on your listings and branding to stand out.
• Shipping: You're responsible for shipping, so you'll need to calculate costs and handle packaging.

Who is Depop Best For?

Depop is perfect for sellers targeting Gen Z and those with a passion for vintage, streetwear, and unique fashion. If you have a knack for styling and enjoy the social aspect of selling, Depop can be a fantastic platform. It's also great for those who are comfortable with lower prices and are willing to put in the effort to build a brand and attract followers. If your style is bold, unique, and on-trend, Depop offers a vibrant community to connect with buyers who share your fashion sense.

Tips for Success When Selling Clothes Online

Alright, now that we've covered the best platforms for selling clothes online, let's talk about how to maximize your success. Selling clothes online can be super rewarding, but it does take a little effort to stand out and make those sales. Here are some tips to help you become a top seller:

1. High-Quality Photos

First impressions matter! Your photos are the first thing buyers will see, so make sure they're clear, well-lit, and showcase your items in the best possible light. Use natural light whenever possible, and take photos from multiple angles. Show the details, any flaws (if there are any), and how the item looks when worn. If you can, model the clothes yourself or use a mannequin to give buyers a better idea of the fit.

2. Detailed Descriptions

Be thorough in your descriptions. Include the brand, size, material, condition, and any other relevant details. Measurements are especially helpful for buyers trying to determine the fit. Be honest about any flaws, as transparency builds trust. Use keywords that buyers might search for, such as “vintage,” “boho,” or “designer,” to increase the visibility of your listings.

3. Competitive Pricing

Research similar items on the platform to get an idea of the going rate. Price your items competitively, considering their condition, brand, and demand. Don't be afraid to offer discounts or bundles to attract buyers. Keep in mind the fees of the platform and factor them into your pricing strategy so you know your actual profit margin.

4. Excellent Customer Service

Respond to inquiries promptly and professionally. Be polite and helpful, even if a buyer is asking a lot of questions. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth can go a long way in building your reputation as a seller. If there are any issues with the sale, address them quickly and fairly.

5. Fast Shipping

Ship your items as quickly as possible. Buyers appreciate fast shipping, and it can lead to positive reviews. Package your items carefully to prevent damage during transit. Include a thank-you note or a small personal touch to make the buyer feel valued.

6. Promote Your Listings

Share your listings on social media to reach a wider audience. Participate in platform-specific features, such as Poshmark's Posh Parties or Depop's Explore page, to increase visibility. Consider running promotions or offering discounts to incentivize sales. The more you promote your items, the more likely you are to make a sale.

Conclusion: Find the Best Site to Sell Clothes for You

So, there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to the best sites to sell clothes online. Each platform has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the social selling experience of Poshmark, the versatility of Mercari, the convenience of thredUP, the luxury focus of The RealReal, or the Gen Z vibe of Depop, there's a platform out there that's perfect for you.

Selling clothes online is a fantastic way to declutter your closet, make some extra cash, and give your clothes a second life. By understanding the nuances of each platform and implementing our tips for success, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful online seller. Happy selling!