How to Consign Clothing for the Best Results

This guide is for anyone who wants to consign clothing, shoes or accessories and see more of their items accepted and sold. You will learn which pieces shops tend to want, how to prepare them, and when to bring them in.

Choose the right shop for your clothing

Clothing consignment shops vary widely. Some focus on designer and luxury labels, others on everyday mall brands, children's clothing, plus sizes, bridal or vintage. A shop that sells mostly casual brands may pass on a formal designer gown, and a high-end shop may decline everyday basics. Look at the racks before you bring anything in. If you see items like yours at prices that make sense, it is likely a good fit.

Know what shops usually look for

Each shop has its own standards, but most want clothing that is:

• Current or classic: recent styles, or timeless pieces that do not look dated.
• In excellent condition: no stains, holes, pilling, odors, fading or missing buttons.
• From recognizable brands that their customers ask for.
• In season, or arriving just before the season begins.

Many shops post their accepted brands, condition rules and seasonal schedule. Read these first to save yourself a trip.

Time your consignments to the season

Shops usually accept clothing slightly ahead of the season so it is on the floor when shoppers start looking. Bring sweaters and coats as fall approaches, and swimwear and light fabrics as spring arrives. Ask each shop when it starts and stops accepting each season, since schedules differ by region and climate.

Prepare each item carefully

Presentation affects both acceptance and price.

• Launder or dry clean every item according to its care label.
• Remove lint and pet hair, and press or steam out wrinkles.
• Check seams, hems, zippers and buttons, and make small repairs if you can do them neatly.
• Remove anything left in pockets.
• Store items away from smoke, perfume and musty closets, since odors are a common reason for rejection.

Do not try to remove serious stains or alter vintage or delicate fabrics with harsh methods. A damaged item will be declined anyway, and some treatments make things worse.

Present items the way the shop asks

Some shops want clothing on hangers; others prefer items folded in a bin or bag. Following their instructions makes intake faster and shows care. Keep shoes clean, with polished leather and fresh insoles if needed, and bring them in their box if you have it. Handbags should be emptied, with any dust bags, straps or authenticity cards included.

Bring documentation for designer pieces

For luxury handbags, shoes and designer clothing, shops may require proof of authenticity, such as receipts, cards or original packaging. Some shops authenticate items themselves or decline items they cannot verify. Bringing paperwork helps your item get accepted and can support a higher price.

Set realistic expectations

Resale clothing typically sells well below its original retail price, even when it is like new. Most shops set prices based on brand, condition and what similar items have sold for in their store. If the shop also has a markdown schedule, items that do not sell early may drop in price over the consignment period. Decide in advance whether you want unsold clothing returned or donated, and note the pickup deadline.

Track and refresh your consignments

Check your account regularly. If items are not selling, ask the shop whether a different season, a lower price or a different shop might suit them better. Over time you will learn which brands and styles sell best at each shop, and you can bring in more of those.

Quick checklist

• Pick a shop whose racks match your brands and style.
• Read the shop's brand list, condition rules and season schedule.
• Clean, press and repair each item; remove odors.
• Follow the shop's hanger or folding instructions.
• Bring proof of authenticity for designer pieces.
• Note the consignment period and pickup deadline.