✨ My first The Real Real purchases ✨
I bought Bottega Veneta, A.P.C., and Marc Jacobs!
I wanted a fun bag that wasn’t slouchy and could transition from day to night. I also wanted a solid colored wallet that resembled a card holder, but was more secure. And voila! I ended up on The Real Real.
Where I shop for pre-loved luxury
I've always loved thrifting, but more recently, I fell into the rabbit hole of online preloved luxury. There are tons of specialized sellers, like FashioNica and Saucy Vault, but there’s also the traditional platforms like eBay, The Real Real, Poshmark, and Vestiaire Collective.
Each marketplace has its standout qualities, so getting in the habit of hopping around and saving what catches your eye is key to scoring the best finds.
eBay is a great place to find vintage fashion houses in okay condition and accessories. If you want pristine condition, search for brands that aren’t as popular or high demand. For example, I found an out-of-season leather Victoria Beckham tote for $200. It was a huge steal and has become my go-to work and travel bag.
The Real Real is excellent for more in-season, trending items. You’ll find brands like Fendi, Gucci, Christian Dior, and Hermès for reasonable prices. While it tends to be a little more expensive than eBay, it’s a reliable way to get pieces that are hot right now.
Vestiaire Collective is similar to The Real Real but has a high concentration of international sellers, which is deal for sourcing exclusive pieces that are tough to find elsewhere. However, Vestiaire Collective adds an authentication fee per item, which can make even great deals more expensive in the end.
What I bought
I recently bought three items from The Real Real, and I’m thrilled!
First, I got an A.P.C. Virginie Shoulder Bag in leopard print. Funny enough, I had my eye on the pink version on SSENSE, but it sold out before I could grab it. This version is 100% leather with a cotton lining, and it’s such an underrated find.
A.P.C. bags are a best-kept secret in the preloved market, especially for those who appreciate craftsmanship and quality leather. I scored this one for $206.50 in excellent condition.
Next, I picked up a Marc Jacobs red leather compact wallet. It’s shaped like a cardholder but offers more security with a button closure. I wanted a fun-colored wallet to complement the cheetah bag, but I also prioritized quality leather. This piece was marked as very good condition and cost just $64.
Lastly, I found a vintage Bottega Veneta Intrecciato weave continental wallet. I’ve been wanting a vintage Bottega, but I opted for a neutral shade since I already got a bold red wallet. There’s some discoloration on the inside, but it adds character, and the exterior wear looks beautifully aged. It was marked as good condition, and I got it for just $55.50.
My experience shopping with The Real Real
One thing I appreciate about The Real Real is how quick the shipping has been. All of my items shipped domestically, so I didn’t have to deal with long waits like I would with international sellers.
Each item arrived in great condition, exactly as described. I’m really excited about these new additions to my collection and can’t wait to keep exploring more preloved luxury finds!
What preloved steals have you found on the second-hand market? Share in the comments!