They’re quietly critiquing you from the depths of your closet.

That dress you donned once for a wedding two years back. The blazer you purchased for a job interview that never materialized. Each time you grab your favorite hoodie or sweatpants, they’re there — untouched, unworn, and occupying space. This is your cue: it’s time to initiate the sale of your clothes online.

Why Selling Clothes Online Is the Most Effortless Side Hustle You’ll Ever Attempt

Thanks to closet cleanouts during the pandemic and the emergence of “underconsumption-core,” an increasing number of individuals are mastering the skill of detachment — and profiting from it. If you have a bag of scarcely worn or never-worn attire just collecting dust, you’re already partway there. Selling secondhand serves not only as a means to declutter — it’s an effortless, high-reward side gig that can help you cope with rising expenses, particularly as tariffs threaten to escalate the prices of both budget and luxury apparel.

With inflation and import duties raising costs, an increasing number of shoppers are turning to secondhand platforms for savings. This indicates a growing demand for the items you no longer wear. And once you get accustomed to it, you’ll have a dependable method for earning extra income — no specialized skills or significant time commitment needed.

Why Tariffs Are Enhancing the Appeal of Secondhand Shopping

Let’s face it: a majority of your clothing likely wasn’t produced in the U.S. In fact, a 2024 report from the American Apparel & Footwear Association revealed that 97% of garments and footwear sold in the U.S. are imported. This implies that almost all of it is subject to tariffs, which are already inflating costs — particularly for goods from China, where brands like Shein and Temu source their products. With some tariffs now surpassing 100%, fast fashion is about to become significantly pricier.

Consequently, shoppers are reevaluating their purchasing habits. The era of $5 tees and massive clothing haul deals may be coming to an end. And frankly, that’s not necessarily a negative development. The low prices of fast fashion come at a steep price — from unjust labor practices to environmental degradation. The fashion sector is accountable for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions, and brands such as Shein have faced scrutiny for issues ranging from overproduction to exploitative labor conditions.

The encouraging news? People are already welcoming secondhand shopping. Thrifting is thriving, and resale applications make it simpler than ever to discover (and sell) gently used items — with no Goodwill treasure hunt required.

Yes, There Are Buyers for Your Items — Even If You Doubt It

One of the prevalent misconceptions about reselling is that no one will be interested in your pre-owned clothing. However, the reality is, there’s a buyer for nearly everything. Whether it’s a pair of Lululemon leggings, a trendy dress from Princess Polly, or a sold-out pair of Vans, someone is likely on the lookout for exactly what you intend to sell — particularly at a lower price than new.

Moreover, you don’t need a closet filled with vintage treasures to thrive. Everyday essentials, branded activewear, and one-time-use outfits all perform well. The key lies in knowing where to advertise them.

Where to Sell: Depop vs. Poshmark vs. Mercari

Each resale app has its advantages:

– Depop: Ideal for trendy, vintage, and niche fashion. Its predominantly Gen Z user base appreciates curated aesthetics and styles endorsed by influencers. If you’re selling something from a popular brand or wish to focus on a particular aesthetic, Depop is your best bet.

– Poshmark: Excellent for a wide spectrum of clothing, particularly for women. It boasts the largest user base and is perfect for mid-range brands and everyday apparel. It’s also a great option for older millennials and Gen X sellers.

– Mercari: The most adaptable option. It’s suitable for fashion but also works well for home goods, electronics, and beauty products. If you’re listing sneakers, kids’ outfits, or miscellaneous household items, Mercari is a solid choice.

Pro tip: Many sellers post the same items across multiple platforms to attract more potential buyers.

How to Make Your Listings Stand Out

You don’t require a professional studio setup to capture excellent photos — just a tidy background, adequate lighting, and some effort. Here’s what helps:

– Utilize natural light or a daylight lamp to accurately represent colors and textures.
– Snap photos from various angles — front, back, and close-ups of details.
– Model the item if feasible, or display it neatly against a neutral backdrop.
– Maintain a consistent photo style for a cohesive appearance.

When crafting your description, be detailed. Include the brand, size, fit, fabric, condition, and any imperfections. Mention how often it’s been worn and whether it runs large or small. Transparency fosters trust — and leads to positive reviews.

Bonus Tips to Enhance Sales