A dive into the trends for the European resale market

Sustainability is a topic that’s on the tip of everyone’s tongue it would seem. With ambitious targets being set by those in power and a shift in consumer attitudes, it comes as no surprise that the resale market is doing particularly well in Europe at the moment.

From electronic goods to clothing and even furniture, you can give almost anything a second life by listing and selling items online. Meanwhile, shoppers can secure high-quality items for less. Here’s what you need to know about the evolution of these trends.

Sustainable style

Attitudes to sustainable style have evolved in recent years. These days, people are opting for characterful second-hand items over fast fashion items from the high street.

Several factors have fuelled this, including greater awareness of unethical practices in fast fashion supply chains, as well as education about the environmental impact of buying new clothing. The circular economy is a concept that more businesses and individuals are adopting over time, where the premise involves giving items a new life as opposed to throwing them away.

Beyond this, many people, including influential figures online, are sharing their unique second-hand finds. These could be from charity shops, their friends’ wardrobes or through second-hand selling platforms.

Luxury resurgence

Something that has helped to kickstart the European resale market is the sale of preloved luxury goods. Resale platforms allow consumers to secure goods for less, creating a huge appeal to those who perhaps haven’t considered second-hand purchases before.

Often the items for sale are in brilliant condition too, where past owners have taken care of the items properly. From jewellery to designer handbags, accessories are particularly popular purchases on platforms that specialise in selling luxury preloved goods. Pre-owned watches are also a great way to add a unique and characterful feel to your look, with endless luxury models available. Beyond this, you can seek out high-quality clothing by various designers.

Digital disruption

The power of social media and digital technology can’t be underestimated. Second-hand marketplaces that operate online and through apps allow customers to shop second-hand in a matter of taps. The likes of Vinted, Depop, eBay and others dominate this space and have been integral to how we perceive preloved fashion. Even platforms like Amazon are reporting a surge in the sales of second-hand goods.

These brands have built partnerships with influential figures and platforms in recent years, with one of the most notable examples being the Love Island and eBay partnership, which aims to change the way the show’s young and influential audience perceives second-hand clothing. Influencer partnerships have also made a considerable difference to this as they switch up their image to promote more responsible attitudes to shopping.

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