Make a good investment, sell when you should… follow our 5 major rules for selling your designer bags.

(image source designer vintage)

1- Invest in the classics

When you’re about to purchase a designer bag, in order to increase the possibility of selling it later on and/or even make a profit, stick to the most classic and luxurious brands: Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo and Dior. Their classic designs are always in demand, which means they are more likely to keep their value. Chanel, Dior and Hermès are even likely to increase their value with time.

2- Forward thinking

So you’re the proud owner of a beautiful new bag! For sure, the last thing you’re thinking about is that at some point you might want to sell it. Incorrect. Having this in mind right from the beginning, will have you ready for the above mentioned possibility, by doing the following: Start by keeping the receipt. You will be able to use it to prove your bag’s originality, value, and authenticity. While your bag is not in use, store it in its dustbag and box you bought it in. This will keep it in shape (stuff it with newspaper for this purpose) and preserve its good condition. Also, the original packaging will make it more appealing to a potential buyer later. Also make sure to store it away from direct sunlight to protect its colour. If you want to wash a leather bag yourself instead of taking it to professionals, dampen a soft cloth and wipe it with hot water and some savon de Marseille or olive oil green soap. Never rub it!! Always test a small section before doing any of the above!!

3- Present good photos

A potential buyer will decide whether or not to buy a second-hand bag basically attracted by the photos used to present it in the first place. How to make the best of yours: Photograph your bag in broad daylight. A white background is always preferred. Produce multiple images from different angles (front, back, sides, from above…). Never forget at least one photo of the interior and perhaps any key details. Always include the branded label to prove your bag’s authenticity. Finally, do not ommit any defects or signs of wear, and photograph them along with the attractive elements. You must always be honest about the condition of your items in order to avoid returns and so that the buyer receives what is expected. Our quality control team are very much into checking the details and may turn down the sale of an item if it bears defects, scratches or any other damage which wasn’t stated from the start.

4- Detailed description

When describing your items make sure it is done in detail. Present any useful information that potential buyers would care to know and that perhaps is not derived from a photo; like year and place of purchase, how many things you can carry, how it looks when you wear it. Also always include the bag’s measurements (as well as the handle/strap) so that you give a more accurate idea of its size, shape, and utility.

5- Sell at the right time

To boost the possibility of selling your bag, always consider the season. In general, light coloured and white bags sell much better in spring and summer, and neutral coloured or darker ones, in autumn and winter. Although the demand for classic and iconic designs remains pretty much constant, it’s good to bear in mind that the demand for more trendy designs will change when the new seasonal collections come along. In order for you to get the best possible price for your bag, you should attempt to sell it while it maintains its popularity. Trends come and go and you can get a fairly better price for your item, whilst at its peak. Unless, you are selling one of the classics……