In line with spring cleaning, I decided to do a deep clean of my room, including my dresser and my closet. I always knew about Poshmark and other online consignment platforms where you could sell or buy used or new clothes. However, I was always a little hesitant to make the Poshmark plunge due to the time commitment and my skepticism about whether or not it was even worth it. So when I finally decided that this year, I would make an account and start selling clothes, I went in with no expectations and hoped I would sell at least a few things.
When I downloaded Poshmark, I first noticed how user-friendly the app was. As someone who is not overly tech-savvy, this was a huge sigh of relief. Listing clothes is extremely easy, with a special “sell” tab at the bottom that allows you to take pictures of your clothes or upload pictures from your photo library. After taking multiple pictures, you can then describe in detail the item you are selling, which can include how many times it has been worn, the clothing item’s measurements or even outfit suggestions. Other details include the category of the item (top, bottom, dress, etc.), the quantity of what you are selling, the size of the item, the brand, color and whether or not it is new with tags. When taking photos, I would try to take multiple pictures of the item you are selling, which can include the front and the back of the item, a close-up of the pattern/ material and the tag of the brand and size. I would also recommend that the picture of the item has a simple white backdrop with good lighting. For me personally, I take pictures of the clothes I am selling on the door of my room which is parallel to a window, which provides natural lighting. For shoes or pants however, I tend to lay the item flat on my carpet and take an aerial view. A nice clean and crisp aesthetic can help improve the “look” of your closet and can help catch a buyer’s eye.
In addition to the photos, the listing price is extremely important. It is crucial to understand that most of the items found on Poshmark have been worn, even if it is only once or twice, and you will not get a price close to the original. People specifically look at Poshmark to find their favorite brands for a cheaper price when compared to retail. A realistic listing price is crucial; however, buyers can also negotiate with you and offer a cheaper price. This has happened to me multiple times and I generally accept given that most of the offers I have received are only $5ish below my asking price. Reduced prices are common throughout so do not dismiss them right away!
With your closet, you can also offer bundling discounts. This means that buyers can purchase multiple items from your shop and receive a discount. For my shop personally, if a posher buys three or more items, they receive a 10% discount on all of their items. This can incentivize people to buy more things from your closet. Another incentive to bundle is that shipping, which is typically paid by the buyer but can also be discounted by the seller, is a flat rate of $7.11. Instead of paying the shipping fee for one $5 shirt, you can get more bang for your buck if you buy three $5 shirts, which would also be 10% given the $7.11 flat rate shipping fee. It is also important to note there is no stress regarding the shipping label: it is prepaid and is sent to your email after one of your items is sold.
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Now comes the important question: how much money am I going to make? It honestly depends on the items you sell with their selling price. If you have brands like Free People, lululemon, Urban Outfitters, and these items are still in good shape, you could probably sell at a higher price when compared to a heavily worn Nike t-shirt. Poshmark fees vary depending on the selling price as well. For sales under $15, Poshmark subtracts $2.95 from your earnings as a flat commission. For sales over $15, Poshmark’s commission is 20%. I have found my earnings to be reasonable and although I have definitely made more money on some items over others, a few dollars here and there is nothing to complain about!
So in order to receive the money from the sale, the item you sold must be delivered and received by the buyer. The earnings are then found within the app and can be redeemed through the purchase of other items on Poshmark, through direct deposit on your bank account, or a check can be sent to you.
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One of the things that shocked me most about Poshmark was the community itself. It is extremely active with a lot of poshers liking my posts, sharing my posts, following me, commenting on my listings, and inviting me to posh parties, which are theme-related shopping events that help promote your closet and help you sell items even faster. I have definitely enjoyed my Poshmark experience and I recommend it to anyone that wants to either reduce or update their closet!