So You’ve Decided to DIY… How to Get Started Selling Your Items

Selling your own clothes or accessories can be rewarding — especially if you’re organized, patient, and creative. Whether you’re listing one handbag or your entire wardrobe, here’s a clear step-by-step guide to help you start strong and stay motivated.

1. Sort, Inspect & Prep Your Items

Before anything gets listed, start with a quality check.

Look for:

• Clean, fresh, wrinkle-free items

• No stains, damage, missing buttons, or pilling

• Shoes that are wiped down and in good condition

• Items from the last 1–3 years or timeless classics

If something needs steaming or lint-rolling, do it now.
Presentation matters — and clean, well-prepped items sell faster.

2. Pick the Right Selling Platform

Different platforms attract different buyers. Choose based on what you’re selling:

Best for clothing:

• Poshmark

• Mercari

• Depop (great for trendy, Y2K, streetwear)

Best for luxury items:

• eBay

• The RealReal (hybrid consignment but helps authenticate)

• Facebook Marketplace (local luxury buyers)

Best for quick local sales:

• Facebook Marketplace

• OfferUp

Tip: Don’t stretch yourself too thin. Start with one or two platforms and grow from there.

3. Take Photos That Actually Sell

Good photos = higher prices + faster sales.

Follow these basics:

• Use natural daylight

• Photograph against a clean, neutral background

• Take multiple angles: front, back, details, tags, flaws

• Show close-ups of fabric texture and labels

• Wear or style the item if possible — modeled photos perform best

Avoid filters — buyers want accuracy.

4. Write Clear, Honest Descriptions

Your description should answer questions before buyers ask them.

Include:

• Brand + size

• Condition level (“like new,” “gently used,” “good condition”)

• Measurements (bust, waist, inseam, length)

• Fabric details

• Fit notes (runs small? oversized?)

• Any defects, no matter how minor

The more transparent you are, the fewer returns and messages you’ll deal with.

5. Price It Strategically (Not Emotionally)

Research similar items on your chosen platform.
Overpricing leads to items sitting for months.

General pricing rule:

• Excellent condition: 30–50% of original retail

• Good condition: 20–40%

• Fast-fashion brands: $8–$20 typically

• A-list luxury: varies, but authenticity drives price

Remember: buyers expect to negotiate.
Price slightly above what you want to earn.

6. Create Listings That Stand Out

A strong listing includes:

• A clear title (“Madewell Transport Tote — Brown Leather Crossbody”)

• Keywords buyers search for

• Clean formatting

• Accurate categories

• Multiple photos

• Honest condition notes

Your goal: make it as easy as possible for a buyer to say “yes.”

7. Stay Responsive & Professional

Buyers on resale platforms appreciate quick communication.

Respond quickly to:

• Offers

• Questions

• Bundling requests

Politeness matters — and often results in more completed sales.

8. Pack & Ship Like a Pro

Once something sells, ship within the time window the platform requires.

Good packaging = good reviews.
Use:

• Clean poly mailers or small boxes

• Tissue paper for a nice touch

• Strong tape

• Printed shipping labels

Include a small thank-you note if you want to boost ratings.

9. Track Your Inventory

When you’re selling multiple pieces, it’s easy to lose track.

Keep a simple spreadsheet with:

• Item

• Platform

• Date listed

• List price

• Sold price

• Shipping cost

• Net profit

This helps you see what sells well — and what’s not worth listing again.

✨ Final Thoughts

DIY selling can absolutely work — especially if you enjoy the process, have the time, and want full control over your listings and profits. With preparation, clear photos, fair pricing, and good communication, you can successfully turn your closet into cash.

And if you ever decide the work is too much?
Consignment is always waiting to take the hassle out of your hands.