If you're looking to buy authentic luxury items at a lower price, I know just the place!
Are you a fan of luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, and Prada? I know that a lot of people enjoy buying items from these brands and I have nothing against that. I mean, so long as you're able to sustain the lifestyle and not drowning in debt for it, why not, right?
But if you’re asking me, the truth is, I don't own any designer items. I'm not exactly sure if it's because I don't like them or if I just haven't looked through luxury stores enough to find something I actually want to buy. I guess I haven’t really reached the point where I’m willing to shell out a couple of months’ savings for just one item.
Recently, I discovered this website called TheRealReal. It’s basically an online luxury authenticated consignment shop where people from all over can sell their designer goods - anything ranging from (men and women’s) fashion & accessories, men’s sneakers, handbags, fine jewelry, watches, home decor, and fine art. It’s pretty awesome since you get to find items here that are guaranteed authentic, of good quality, and most importantly, sold for lower prices than in stores. More often than not, these luxury items are only used for special occasions and are well cared for, since they’re pretty much investments for the long run. These are actually items you can use for years and even pass on from generation to generation.
TheRealReal helps not only those who want to buy luxury goods for a lower price, but also those who want to sell items they’ve fallen out of love with. There are items that can stand the test of time, but then again, there are those styles that get old pretty quick. Classic is the way to go, and after hours of browsing the website (there’s just tons to choose from), I found a couple that I wouldn’t mind having in my collection.
For starters, this Louis Vuitton Palm Springs Backpack MM is a beautiful piece that you can use for everyday, especially for traveling. I’ve been obsessed with backpacks lately, and this item immediately caught my eye. Not really sure how much this one originally retails for or if it’s still available in LV stores, but this particular backpack sells for $2,295 on the site. Each page also lists the item’s condition so you have a better idea of what you’re getting.
And since small bags are all the rage right now, I also noticed these black Gucci bags. The first one is the Soho Disco Crossbody Bag which retails for $1,190, but sold on the site for $995. Condition is “Very Good. Minor discoloration at interior and exterior; minor tarnishing at hardware.” The other one is the GG Marmont Matelassé Mini Bag that looks to me more like a timeless piece. It’s estimated retail price is $980, but you can cop it on TheRealReal for $945.
Gucci Soho Disco Crossbody Bag / Gucci GG Marmont Matelassé Mini Bag
I guess it still depends on the person if they want to save the extra $35, but here’s something to consider - by purchasing secondhand items, you’re saving the environment and helping reduce the items that end up in landfills. It’s not something that one would think of, but I’m glad TheRealReal did.