How to shop second hand

The pre-loved luxury market is booming and Hannah Britt shows she can bag a bargain

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AS I pawed over my Mulberry handbag, I was chuffed to bits. There wasn't a scratch on it - it looked brand new. But it wasn't. In fact, I'd found it on Designer Exchange, a pre-loved luxury website, for less than half its RRP.

Snapping up something someone else didn't want any more meant the bag of my dreams was now within reach.

The secondhand market is booming as awareness of sustainability also grows.

Consumers are now more conscious of their environmental footprint and want to reduce waste. Buying pre-loved extends the life of garments.

Then of course, there's the value for money. With the cost-of-living crisis, people are seeking ways to look stylish without paying full retail prices.

And, as I just found out, it makes luxury more accessible.

Designer resale allows people to enjoy high-quality craftsmanship and timeless pieces at a fraction of the price.

Here's how to do it...

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Allanah Stephenson of Designer Exchange (uk. designerexchange.com) said:

■Know your sizes across brands - sizing varies, so check measurements.

■Do your research - have a wish list of brands or pieces in mind so you can shop with purpose.

■Check condition carefully - look at things like zips and stitching, especially with handbags.