Are You Cleaning Out Your Closet This Spring?

Spring is the time of year when many seek a fresh start. It’s a rebirth of sorts in more ways than one, so it’s not surprising that this is the time of year when cleaning out our closets is common and encouraged.

Many of us vowed to shop our own closet more in 2023, which means taking note of our inventory, and now that we’re already a quarter of the way through the year that possibly means you’ve realized that you own far too many black bags. Or maybe you found a dusty old Louis Vuitton bag in the corner of your closet that’s seen happier days. Maybe you’d rather trade those unused carries for an on-trend red bag or a new structured top handle.

To Sell or Not to Sell

While I used to painstakingly stress about selling bags. Wondering if I was making the right choice, I’ve learned to attach less emotion to selling them. Also, there really haven’t been many times (if any) that I’ve parted ways with a bag and really missed it. Also, thanks to the resale market, there is always a chance to repurchase a bag if that does happen. This year I’ve already begun to streamline. Though I added the Prada Cleo to my rotation earlier this year, I also sold my Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 in Damier Azur, which I am confident was the right choice.

In-Demand Brands

If you’re looking to sell, The RealReal released a new luxury resale report earlier this year, which offers an inside look at shifts in the secondary luxury market over the
past several months. As usual, the demand is there for the big luxury players like Hermès, Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. However, prices have begun to level out and will likely continue to do so over the next few months.

“The ‘worn’ trend is about people appreciating quality items and refusing to let a few scratches get in the way of enjoying a Chanel or a Gucci bag.” -Becky Akinyode

As a potential recession looms, consumers are looking for more affordable options on the resale market, so don’t be afraid to let go of those bags that are in less than stellar condition. The RealReal cites them as “a gateway to luxury.” Additionally, the demand for trendier (and more affordable) luxury brands like Miu Miu, Bottega Veneta, Prada, and Dior has steadily grown and will continue to do so over the next few months, so you may want to hold on to that Jodie bag for a bit as demand increases.

Lastly, don’t forget to keep your eyes on Gucci, which has a major potential to see an increase in demand thanks to Alessandro Michele’s departure. When a creative director leaves, it often signals an uptick in demand as older pieces become more collectible. As always, the resale market can be fickle, and it’s a bit of a cat-and-mouse game, so don’t be afraid to shop around and see which resale site will give you the best deal.

Which bags, if any, are you looking to part with this spring?