Second-hand items, by definition, may include vintage apparel, which in turn is defined as such depending on the age of the product in question. While second-hand fashion shopping is by no means always cheap, especially when searching for vintage garments, the benefits consumers identify for themselves may lead to a positive reaction regardless of individual price preferences or customer goals. These benefits include extending the use of an item, in many cases paying less than the original cost, avoiding encouragement of the negative impacts of the textile industry, and possibly upcycling.
Riffling through an actual physical rack or crate of clothing in a brick-and-mortar second-hand shop (or a flea market) still brings its own kind of satisfaction, but it is not the only option available. When consumers go shopping for second-hand clothing online, they pay attention to various factors. Among these, the leading are accessing the condition of the item, its price and whether a free return policy is in place. Online second-hand apparel stores, also referred to as recommerce platforms, are increasing their presence on the market. Websites in this category which are popular in Germany include Momox Fashion, Vinted, and Mädchenflohmarkt, to name just a few. These stores may differ in terms of the level of interaction and negotiation necessary between sellers and buyers. Additionally, the platforms may only buy certain brands, sometimes at a fixed price.
The future of second-hand and vintage fashion shopping in Germany looks to be a dynamic intersection of physical retail and expanding recommerce options.
