“Sell, trash or donate?” I asked myself this simple question while cleaning out my closet. It seemed like a smart idea knowing I’d eventually move. The date has been pushed back a year but that didn’t change the fact that I had too much stuff in my closet. Stuff I didn’t even wear anymore. As I pushed and pulled hangers I tried to remember when was the last time I had worn whatever it was I was holding in my hands. If I couldn’t remember the outing, the garment was going in a bag. If it was in good condition I’d either sell or donate it. When it was time to sell, I didn’t know where to go.
I’m done with eBay. Almost done, at least. I just think it’s such a hassle to post a listing, and then there are the fees. (Student budget, yo!) Another thing that annoyed me was the issue with the pictures. Usually online pics aren’t allowed so having to set up a tripod and change multiple times wasn’t appealing. I did it once and the process took an entire day. No kidding. I figured stock photos were best and pictures of flaws of the actual item could be provided upon request. Easy.
A friend of mine told me about a PUG (Pinup Girl Clothing) Swap and Sell group. Although I didn’t plan on selling the few PUG items I own, I decided to join. I quickly learned that the group has rules and a list of other brands that are allowed. Some of my items were on the brand list but I though it’d be best to see how it goes down first.
Here’s what a listing may look like:
NWT (New, with tags) Hell Bunny Vixen dress, size small. Would like to trade for the cherry print Zooey top, size medium or sell for $50 shipped. Comes from a pet friendly and smoke-free home.
The seller would then have to wait for a potential buyer or swapper to comment. Questions regarding condition, measurements or potential offers are discussed in the comment section or privately, via direct message.
The process seemed simple enough but I wondered if there were any ModCloth swap and sell groups, since most of my items were purchased on their site and not all of the brands they sell were allowed on this particular group. After asking around, I found out there’s a clothing swap group which allows pretty much any brand, but mainly focuses on ModCloth items. Purrfect!
Girls from the US, Canada, Australia (and now Puerto Rico!) post their Pinterest swap and sell boards and hope for the best! If someone is interested in an item, they’ll respond commenting which item they’re lusting after along with a link to their board and hope the other person would like to swap for one of their items. Worst case scenario, they have nothing in the style the other is looking for and no swap will happen… BUT! Most of the times, the person is willing to sell at a great price. I’ve swapped three times so far and I’m now waiting for a fourth swap from Canada. Here are some of the items that are now having a party with my other skirts and dresses in my closet:
Once Upon a Maritime Skirt, ModCloth
Hey, that’s Cat Carney!
Cutest of the Fruit Dress, ModCloth
You all know how much I love quirky prints!
Jolly Green Client Dress, ModCloth
Hell Bunny Vixen Dress, ModCloth by Hell Bunny
I’m sure it had a very a very “Mod” name but I can’t find it, unfortunately.
Here are some of my favorite clothing swap and sell groups on Facebook:
Jeffrey Campbell Swap Sell and Buy Group
Ooh La La! Vintage Swap and Sell Shop
Hell Bunny Clothing Buy, Swap & Sell
Clothing swap and sell groups are a great option if you’re short on cash, like me! Most items in my closet are second hand, a gift or were or super sale. Remember to be a saavy shopper.
Always read the rules before posting! You don’t want to get banned after being accepted! Did I miss any? Know about other swap/sell groups? Please share!
Happy selling and swapping!
787 Cherry Street 