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Prom is a magical night for teenagers but can also be expensive for families. A study by Visa showed that families spend an average of $919 on prom night, and a big chunk of that goes towards the dress itself. While a stunning dress can elevate your prom experience, it’s also an item you typically wear only once. Like bridesmaids or wedding dresses, prom dresses often occupy precious closet space after the big event.
The good news is, there’s a solution! Just like there are marketplaces for buying and selling used wedding dresses, there are also options for pre-loved prom dresses. If you’re looking to recoup some of the cost of your dress and declutter your closet simultaneously, selling your prom dress is a great option.
Where can I sell my prom dress?
The answer depends on your preference and the type of dress you have. There are two main avenues to explore: selling locally or selling online. Let’s break them down:
- Local options: Look for consignment shops or pawn shops in your area specializing in formal wear. They might be interested in buying your dress outright or offering you a commission on the sale. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are also options for finding local buyers directly.
- Online Marketplaces: If you’re comfortable reaching a wider audience, consider online platforms like Poshmark, Queenly, and Tradesy. These established websites cater specifically to buying and selling pre-loved formal dresses. Selling your dress on these websites can potentially increase the price of your dress, but it will require some upfront effort, like taking photos and managing communication with potential buyers.
No matter which path you choose, researching the best platform and understanding the going rate for similar dresses will ensure a smooth and successful selling experience. Stay tuned for more tips on maximizing your return when selling your prom dress!
Where to sell prom dresses near me
When it comes to selling your prom dress, there are some great local options that can make the process smooth and secure. Unlike online marketplaces, where you need to deal with shipping and potential delays, selling locally allows you to meet the buyer directly and get paid on the spot.
Here are some of the best places to find a new owner for your prom dress in your area:
1. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a convenient platform that allows individuals to buy and sell various items locally. Whether you’re looking to sell your gently used prom dress, shoes, handbags, accessories, or jewelry, Facebook Marketplace provides a free and accessible platform.
While the option to ship items to buyers is available, it’s important to note that this feature is associated with a selling fee. Specifically, sellers can either operate as a shop and pay a 5% fee per shipment or opt for a flat fee of $0.40 for shipments valued at $8 or less. However, if you’re solely interested in selling your prom dress locally, you can do so without incurring any fees.
2. Consignment stores
Consignment stores offer a convenient way to sell your prom dress without the hassle of managing the sale yourself. Here’s how it works: you bring your dress into the store, and a staff member will assess its condition, style, and current market trends. They’ll then propose a selling price for your approval. If you agree, the store will showcase your dress in their collection, attracting potential buyers.
The advantage? Consignment stores are motivated to sell your dress, as their profit hinges on it. However, remember they’ll take a commission (usually 20-40% of the selling price) to cover their overhead and marketing efforts. Some stores might even charge a fee if your dress doesn’t find a buyer within a set timeframe.
Before deciding on this route, it’s wise to call nearby consignment stores and inquire about their commission rates, selling policies, and if they typically accept prom dresses. This will help you determine if a consignment store is the best fit for selling your particular dress.
3. OfferUp
OfferUp is a widely recognized platform that provides a convenient way to sell your unwanted prom dress. It allows users to engage in local buying and selling activities, making it easy to connect with potential buyers in your area.
One key benefit of using OfferUp is the ability to list your dress for sale without incurring any fees for local transactions that do not involve shipping.
Additionally, OfferUp offers the option to ship items to buyers, providing sellers with flexibility. It’s important to note that when selling items that require shipping, sellers are subject to a fee of at least $1.99 or 12.9% of the sale price. Overall, OfferUp presents an excellent opportunity to sell your prom dress locally without the burden of paying substantial commission fees.
4. Craigslist
In the realm of local prom dress sales, Craigslist remains a popular option. Listing your dress here is free, with no hidden commissions eating your profits. This means you get to keep 100% of the selling price.
However, it’s important to know that Craigslist caters to a wider audience, so finding the perfect buyer for your special occasion dress might take a little longer. To maximize your chances of a successful sale, include high-quality photos and a detailed description highlighting the dress’s style, size, designer (if applicable), and unique features.
5. Pawn shops
While pawn shops offer the advantage of immediate cash for your prom dress, it’s important to weigh the trade-off. They typically won’t give you the best price because they need to factor in a profit margin. This means you might walk away with less than your dress is worth.
However, pawn shops can be a solution if you’re in a hurry to sell your dress and need the money quickly. Just be prepared for a lower payout compared to other selling options.
6. Thrift stores
Thrift stores are another option for selling your prom dress, especially if they’re plentiful in your area and you need quick cash. They can be a convenient choice as you can walk right in and potentially out with money on the spot. However, be prepared for a lower payout than selling methods like consignment stores or online marketplaces. Thrift stores operate with tight margins, so the price they offer will reflect that.
Ultimately, deciding whether to sell to a thrift store depends on your priorities. If maximizing profit is your main concern, you might want to explore other avenues. But if convenience and immediate cash are more important, your local thrift store could be a good fit.
7. 5miles
Looking to sell your prom dress locally? Consider 5miles, a handy website and app that connects you with potential buyers in your area.
Listing your dress on 5miles is free, allowing you to set your price and maximize your profit. Plus, since it caters to a local audience, you can arrange safe meet-ups to exchange the dress in person, ensuring a smooth transaction for both parties.
This can be particularly attractive if you prefer to avoid shipping costs and complexities. While it might not have the same user base as some larger platforms, it’s worth exploring as a local selling option for your prom dress.
8. VarageSale
Think of it as a virtual neighborhood yard sale, perfect for finding your prom dress in a new home close by. VarageSale allows you to list your dress for free and connect with local buyers.
Like Facebook Marketplace, you can arrange safe meet-ups to exchange the dress in person, avoiding shipping hassles. This can be a great option if you want to keep the entire selling process local and maximize your profits.
While user base might vary by area, it’s worth checking out to see if potential buyers in your community are ready to give your prom dress a second life.
9. Nextdoor
This hyper-local app is a fantastic option, especially if you haven’t had luck on other platforms.
Here’s the beauty of Nextdoor: it connects you directly with your neighbors. So, instead of casting a wide net online, you’re contacting potential buyers who might be attending prom soon! You can easily post your dress with clear pictures and a detailed description. Plus, since it’s local, you can arrange a safe and convenient meet-up to exchange the dress and cash.
Nextdoor is also a great option if you’re open to a trade. Maybe someone in your neighborhood has a dress you’d love to wear for another event! So, skip the hassle of shipping and embrace the convenience (and potential savings) of selling locally on Nextdoor.
Where to sell prom dresses online
Selling your prom dress online can be an excellent choice for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to reach a larger pool of potential buyers compared to selling through traditional methods. Additionally, you can avoid the hassle of visiting multiple stores to obtain quotes for your dress, making the selling process more convenient.
If you’re considering selling your prom dress online, here are some platforms where you can do so:
10. Poshmark
Looking to tap into a vibrant online marketplace for your pre-loved prom dress? Look no further than Poshmark! This popular app has become a haven for fashionistas seeking unique and trendy clothing, making it a great platform to find your dress a new home.
Listing your prom dress on Poshmark is free, so you won’t incur any upfront costs. Here’s the breakdown on fees: Poshmark takes a small commission cut when your dress sells. For sales under $15, there’s a flat fee of $2.95. For anything priced at $15 or above, they take a 20% commission.
While there are fees involved, Poshmark offers some advantages that might outweigh the cost. They provide a user-friendly platform to showcase your dress with photos and descriptions. Plus, they even streamline the selling process a bit by offering pre-paid shipping labels to the buyer. This can save you time and hassle when mailing your dress.
Ultimately, Poshmark’s large user base and focus on trendy fashion make it a strong contender for selling your prom dress online. Just be sure to factor in the potential commission fees when setting your price to ensure you walk away with a profit that makes you happy.
11. Queenly
When it comes to online marketplaces specifically for formal wear, Queenly stands out as a fantastic option for selling your prom dress.
Imagine a platform dedicated solely to dresses for special occasions, just like your prom gown! Queenly caters to that, offering a targeted audience of potential buyers actively searching for prom dresses, wedding attire, and dresses for other special events.
Listing your dress on Queenly is free, so you can set your price without any upfront costs. Plus, they take care of a major hassle – shipping! Once your dress sells, Queenly will email you a prepaid shipping label, simplifying the process.
They operate with a transparent fee structure. Queenly takes a 20% commission fee, meaning you keep a healthy 80% of your final selling price. For your convenience, they also offer various payout options using PayPal, Venmo, or ACH.
So, if you’re looking for a platform specifically designed for formal wear and offers a streamlined selling process, Queenly is worth exploring for selling your prom dress online.
12. eBay
eBay boasts a massive user base, giving your prom dress incredible exposure to potential buyers. Listing your dress is free, so you won’t incur any upfront costs. However, there are a few fees to keep in mind:
You won’t pay any insertion fees if you’re a casual seller listing less than 250 items a month. But if you’re a frequent seller, there’s a small fee per listing.
The bigger factor comes once your dress sells. eBay charges a final value fee, typically around 12.9% of the selling price, and a flat fee of $0.30 per order.
While there are associated fees, the sheer volume of potential buyers on eBay can be a significant advantage. This can be particularly appealing if you’re confident your dress has a wide appeal and could fetch a good price.
Just remember to factor in the potential fees when setting your price to ensure you make a profit you’re happy with. Additionally, eBay requires a bit more effort from the seller than some other platforms. You’ll be responsible for managing the listing, shipping, and communication with potential buyers.
13. Tradesy
Tradesy is another online marketplace worth considering for selling your prom dress. They cater to a fashion-conscious audience, making it a good fit for trendy or designer prom gowns.
Here’s a breakdown of their commission structure: For dresses that sell under $50, there’s a flat commission fee of $7.50. For anything priced at $50 or above, the commission fee increases slightly to 19.8%. While there are fees involved, Tradesy offers a user-friendly platform to showcase your dress with high-quality photos and detailed descriptions. They also handle some of the selling process, including buyer authentication services for added security.
Whether Tradesy is the right fit for you depends on your dress and budget. If you have a unique or designer prom dress and are looking for a targeted audience, Tradesy could be a good option. Just be sure to factor in the potential commission fees when setting your price to ensure you walk away with a profit.
14. Vinted
Tight on budget but still want to sell your prom dress online? Vinted might be your perfect match! Unlike many other platforms, Vinted boasts a unique advantage: no listing or selling fees. That’s right, you get to keep 100% of the profit from your dress sale!
This can be particularly attractive if you’re looking to maximize your return, especially for prom dresses with a more classic or unique style that might appeal to a wider range of buyers. Remember that Vinted caters to a broader audience than other platforms focused on formal wear. This means it might take a little longer to find the right buyer compared to some competitors.
However, Vinted’s zero-fee structure can’t be beaten, making It a great platform to try your luck selling your prom dress online and potentially keeping all the profits for yourself. Remember that you’ll manage the listing, communicate with potential buyers, and ship the dress once it sells.
15. Depop
Depop, a popular fashion marketplace with roots in the UK, has become a haven for trendsetters seeking unique and coveted pieces. This online platform can also be a fantastic option for selling your prom dress, especially if it has a trendy or vintage vibe.
Listing your dress on Depop is free, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs. However, they charge a 10% commission fee when your dress is sold. This is a good thing to remember when setting your price to ensure you make a profit you’re happy with.
Depop’s strength lies in its vibrant user base with a keen eye for fashion-forward styles. The platform lets you showcase your dress through creative photos and descriptions, making it perfect for highlighting unique details and design elements. While there’s a commission fee involved, Depop’s reach and focus on trendy fashion could connect you with the perfect buyer willing to pay a premium for your special dress.
16. Etsy
While Etsy boasts a massive audience of millions of potential buyers, it might not be the most traditional route for selling your prom dress. Here’s why:
Etsy is primarily known for handmade and vintage treasures, making it a better fit for unique, one-of-a-kind prom dresses or those with a distinct vintage feel. For more classic prom styles, other platforms might be more focused on that specific market.
There are also a few fees to consider. Listing an item is a small but upfront cost of $0.20. Etsy also takes a 6.5% transaction fee when your dress sells based on the listing price, shipping costs (if applicable), and any gift wrapping fees.
While the vast user base is enticing, the fees and target audience might be better suited for unique or vintage prom dresses. If your dress falls into that category, Etsy could be a good option to explore. However, for more classic prom styles, you might find better results on platforms specializing in formal wear.
17. ThredUp
ThredUp offers a convenient online consignment option for selling your prom dress. They handle the entire selling process, from listing your dress to shipping it to the buyer. This can be a great time-saver if you’d rather not handle the hassle of managing the sale yourself.
However, it’s important to understand ThredUp’s commission structure, which varies depending on the selling price of your dress. You can expect to earn between 5% and 80% of the final selling price. Generally, higher-priced designer dresses command a higher commission percentage for ThredUp.
18. Wedding/bridal dress stores
While it’s true that pre-owned wedding dress websites like Preowned Wedding Dresses and OnceWed primarily cater to bridal gowns, that doesn’t mean your prom dress can’t find a new home there! Here’s the deal:
These platforms specialize in formal wear, including wedding dresses and certain prom styles. If your prom dress leans towards the formal end of the spectrum, with elegant details like intricate beading, luxurious fabrics, or a full skirt, it might be worth exploring these websites.
However, it’s important to be realistic about the target audience. Ball gowns, glamorous silhouettes, and classic styles with a timeless feel are more likely to catch the eye of potential buyers on these platforms. Trendier or shorter prom dresses might better fit marketplaces focused specifically on prom wear.
Here’s a quick tip: When listing your dress, highlight features that resonate with a bridal aesthetic. This could include keywords like “formal,” “elegant,” “ball gown,” or “full skirt” to grab the attention of the right buyer searching for a special occasion dress.
So, while not a guaranteed fit for every prom dress, wedding dress resale websites could be an option for your formal prom gown, especially if it has a more elegant or classic style.
19. The RealReal
The RealReal is a trusted online consignment store specializing in luxury goods, including designer dresses. This means you can sell your prom dress on their platform and potentially earn back a significant chunk of what you paid.
The RealReal handles the entire selling process, from authentication to secure transactions. They accept various designer brands, so you can be confident your dress will reach the right buyer. The commission you earn depends on your dress’s brand and retail price, but it can range from 30% to 85%, giving you a nice return on your investment. So, before you tuck your dress away in the closet, consider The RealReal as a way to give it new life and earn some cash back.
20. Mecari
Mercari is a great online marketplace for all sorts of things, including your once-stunning prom dress! Listing your dress is straightforward, and they won’t charge you anything upfront to get started. However, there are some fees to keep in mind if your dress finds a new buyer.
Mercari charges a selling fee of 2.9% of the final selling price and a flat $0.30 payment processing fee. So, let’s say you sell your dress for $100. Your Mercari fees would be $2.90 (2.9% of $100) + $0.30 = $3.20.
Remember to factor in these fees when you set your listing price. This will ensure you make a profit after selling your dress and sharing its magic with another prom-goer!
21. Shpock
Shpock, a UK-based online marketplace, is a fantastic platform to give your lovely prom dress a second life. They specialize in fashion items and accessories, so your dress will find a new home among eager prom shoppers.
One of the biggest perks of Shpock is that listing your dress is completely free. There are no hidden charges or commissions to worry about. That means you get to keep 100% of the profits from the sale!
This is a great way to recoup some of the cost of your dress, or even turn a profit if you find the right buyer. So, if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to resell your dress and make some extra cash, Shpock is worth checking out.
22. Yoogi’s Closet
There’s a hassle-free way to give your prom dress a new life: Yoogi’s Closet.
Think of Yoogi’s Closet as a luxury online consignment store for designer pieces. Here’s the deal: you request a free quote for your dress and then ship it to them after approval. Unlike traditional consignment shops, you don’t have to manage an active listing or buyer interactions.
Once they receive your dress, Yoogi’s Closet will inspect it thoroughly and send you a final offer. If you love the price, you get paid, and they resell it. The best part? You’re not locked in – if the offer doesn’t meet your expectations, you can simply request your dress back with no strings attached.
Yoogi’s Closet is a great option for those who want a quicker turnaround than traditional consignment shops and don’t mind letting go of control over the final selling price. So ditch the stress of selling yourself and let Yoogi’s Closet work magic to find a new, deserving owner for your dress!
Tips for selling your prom dress
Here are some effective tips to help you increase your chances of finding more buyers and getting the best price for your prom dress when selling it:
Write detailed descriptions
This is your chance to paint a clear picture for potential buyers and avoid surprises.
Start by listing the designer’s name and the dress size. But don’t stop there! Include the dress’s length, especially if it’s a non-traditional style like a high-low or tea length. Knowing the fabric is also crucial – is it airy chiffon or heavier satin? This will help buyers envision how the dress feels and moves.
Be upfront about any alterations. Was the dress hemmed or taken in at the waist? Mentioning this can prevent confusion and ensure a perfect fit for the new owner. Honesty is key, so if there’s any damage—a small tear or a faint stain—clearly disclose it in the description. Transparency builds trust with potential buyers and avoids unnecessary returns.
Remember, the more details you provide, the more confident buyers will feel about their purchase. A detailed description sets you up for a smooth and successful resale!
Take lots of photos
Stunning visuals are key to selling your dress online. Think of potential buyers who can’t physically touch or try on the dress. High-quality photos are their only way to get a complete picture.
Start with a variety of shots showcasing the entire dress. Capture it from the front, back, and sides. If possible, photograph it hanging neatly to display its full silhouette. But don’t stop there! Show off the intricate details – close-ups of beading, lacework, or unique necklines are essential.
Here’s where things get real: Include photos of the dress on a model (you or a friend!). This allows potential buyers to visualize how the dress drapes and moves on a real body. If you feel comfortable showing your face, it’s optional—simply crop it out of the final images.
Don’t forget the power of the tag! Including a clear photo of the dress label with the size and designer information adds a layer of legitimacy to your listing. It assures buyers they’re getting what they pay for. By providing a variety of well-lit, informative photos, you’ll attract serious buyers and give your dress the chance to shine (online) once again!
Mention condition
Transparency is key when selling your once-loved gown. Being upfront about the dress’s condition builds trust with potential buyers and avoids any surprises later.
If it’s brand new with tags still on, shout it from the rooftops (metaphorically speaking)! Was it gently worn for just a few hours on prom night? Mention that too, highlighting its pristine state.
Honesty is key when it comes to any flaws. If there’s a slight tear or a mark, disclose it clearly in the description. Be specific about the location and severity of the damage. Transparency builds trust and allows potential buyers to make an informed decision.
Finally, consider your home environment. If you live in a smoke-free and pet-free home, mention it! Some buyers are sensitive to these factors, and knowing the dress wasn’t exposed to smoke or pet dander can be a big selling point.
By clearly describing the dress’s condition, from its wear history to its surroundings, you’ll attract serious buyers and ensure a smooth and successful resale!
Consider offering matching accessories
While the dress is the star of the show, offering matching accessories can sweeten the deal for potential buyers and set your listing apart.
Imagine a buyer who finds your dream dress, but then scrambles to find matching jewelry or a handbag. By offering a beautiful necklace, earrings, or a clutch that complements the dress’s color and style, you’re providing a one-stop shop for their prom night look. This can be a huge perk, saving them time and effort in prom prep.
Think strategically! If your dress has unique details, like a beaded neckline or a jeweled waistband, find accessories that echo those elements. This cohesive look creates a stronger impression and makes the ensemble feel more special. Of course, don’t pressure anyone to buy the accessories, but presenting them as an option can increase your dress’s appeal and boost your overall sales.
Donate your prom dress
If selling isn’t an option, there are still ways to give your dress a new life. Look into local donation programs that help teenagers find the perfect prom dress for their big night. These programs often struggle to find dresses in larger sizes, so it will be especially appreciated if yours is a plus-size gown.
Another option to explore is donating your dress to a program that supports military brides. This is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their service and contribute to making their wedding day even more special.
Donating your dress is a fantastic way to ensure it gets another chance to shine and create lasting memories for someone else.
The bottom line
There are many options out there, each with its advantages. While there’s no single “best” place to sell, the key is to strategically list your dress on a few different platforms to maximize your reach and exposure.
Here’s the logic: by casting a wider net, you’ll attract a larger pool of potential buyers, increasing your chances of finding someone who falls in love with your dress and is willing to pay your asking price. Experiment with online marketplaces geared towards formal wear, consignment shops with a strong prom dress selection, and even social media groups dedicated to prom fashion.
Remember, a little research goes a long way. Read seller reviews and compare commission fees before committing to a particular platform. By strategically listing your dress and taking advantage of multiple avenues, you’ll be well on your way to a successful resale!