Six Styles to Buy Second-Hand Right Now
Plus, how to get rewarded for cleaning out your closet responsibly.
I recently moved, and in the process, unearthed multiple items in the back of my closet that hadn’t seen the light of day since before that momentary tie-dye trend back in 2020. With the exception of a swimsuit that hasn’t fit me in years and a few holey T-shirts, these were great pieces, in good condition. But for a variety of reasons—my evolving sense of style, my changing work schedule—they didn’t make sense for my life anymore. All of this to say: I’m due for a closet cleanout…and I suspect you are, too.
If there was ever a time to do it, it’s now, because this year, we’re joining Oxfam’s Second-Hand September movement by rewarding you for getting rid of your unwanted clothing responsibly. Here’s how it works: When you list an item on our resale site, Second Act, between September 5th and 17th, you’ll receive a code for 15% off your next Second Act purchase. (The fine print: Limit one code per customer, and the codes expire on 12/31/23.)
Of course, once you’ve cleared your closet of the pieces you no longer wear, you may notice a few gaps. To help you fill them, we just added hundreds of pre-loved styles, refurbished to like-new condition by the tailoring experts at Hemster. Shop the full selection here, or read on for the top six styles we recommend snagging second-hand.
Want more M Dash?
Sign up for our weekly newsletter.
Thank you!
A top that goes from day to night.
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Getting a fun new top is the easiest way to make your wardrobe feel fresh. Something like the Nejvi top would be an excellent option: It’s elegant yet easy-care, unique enough to serve as a statement piece, and versatile enough to go from day to night.
A show-stopping jewel tone dress.
If you’re having déjà vu, that’s because the Jillian is the dress version of the Nejvi top. Like the Nejvi, it’s machine-washable, wrinkle-resistant, and odor-resistant—making it just as practical as it is beautiful. Get it in one of our gorgeous jewel tones and wear it to work—or to that upcoming wedding.
A classic LBD.
The little black dress is a wardrobe staple that’s not going anywhere anytime soon, so you should select one that’s durable, comfortable, and versatile enough that you’ll want to wear it long-term. The Rachel dress is a great choice, thanks to its timeless silhouette and stretchy ponte.
A playful pair of pants.
Buying second-hand is a great way to try out a new style or silhouette at a lower price. And if you’ve never owned culottes before, the Zhou will make you a culotte convert. These swishy, wide-leg pants are fashion-forward, playful, and so comfortable.
A knit dress for the fall transition.
For those in-between weather days when you’re not sure if you should wear a T-shirt dress or a cashmere sweater, try something in between: an easy-to-layer knit dress. The Hayden dress offers just the right amount of coziness without being hot, and once temperatures drop further, you can add a jacket or sweater.
A fun pair of earrings.
I love shopping for accessories, because they’re one-size-fits-all, and they instantly give outfits more personality. And when they’re available second-hand at an extra low price? Even better.