Your Guide to Buying Second Hand Luxury Bags

The craftsmanship, the attention to detail and the prestige that come with carrying a luxury brand can be truly irresistible. However, shopping for high quality second hand luxury bags can be daunting, especially if you're not familiar with the ins and outs of the process.
In this guide, we will unveil the secrets of identifying and avoiding replica designer handbags while uncovering authentic, unique and rare luxury pieces. Whether you are a new collector or a seasoned connoisseur, this guide will empower you to navigate the world of pre-owned luxury bags with confidence. 

Benefits of Buying Second Hand Luxury Bags

Unique product range

Owning a one-of-a-kind piece is the ultimate goal for many fashion enthusiasts, and second hand luxury bags offer the opportunity to acquire some truly special pieces. Whether it's luxury pieces, limited edition items or something entirely unique, the diverse selection on the second hand market can add a touch of exclusivity and distinction to your collection. 

With a few clicks, you will have access to an unparalleled selection of genuine second hand designer bags from some of the world’s most prestigious brands, in pristine condition, including: 

Peruse an exquisite selection of luxury bags from various years, collections and designers all in one place. Your dream bag awaits you.

Quality of craftsmanship

When purchasing second hand luxury handbags, you can be confident that you are getting a piece of high-end craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. Many luxury brands use premium quality materials and construction methods that ensure their bags will last for many years. These designer bags are made with great attention to detail and are made to be durable and long-lasting. When you buy a second-hand designer bag, you are getting a piece of luxury that has already been proven to be lovingly crafted to the highest standard.

Shorter wait times

While the desire for a brand new, premier piece may be strong, obtaining the most sought-after models and designs from renowned brands often requires enduring a long waitlist. An alternative solution is to indulge in the world of consignment, where one-of-a-kind pieces are available for immediate acquisition.

Sustainable shopping

Shopping second hand designer bags is a fantastic choice that allows you to be both stylish and ethical. Not only does it grant you the privilege of owning a luxury item, but it also reduces your environmental impact. 

Things to Remember When Buying Second Hand Designer Handbags

1. Only shop at the most reputable stores

To guarantee the authenticity and superior quality of your purchase, always shop at reputable and trustworthy establishments. Such stores have an image to uphold, and thus take great care in ensuring the authenticity and condition of the items they offer.

At EMIER, we are proud to be one of Australia’s most trusted online marketplaces for pre-owned designer handbags. All of our handbags are white-glove inspected for quality and authenticity, so you are guaranteed to get a stunning second hand designer bag that is 100% authentic and in pristine condition.

2. Bear in mind: if it’s too cheap, it’s probably fake 

When shopping for second hand bags—whether online or in physical stores—there’s always the possibility that you will find a fake. When shopping at a second hand market or miscellaneous retailer, it’s hard to know for sure. Shopping at reputable stores like EMIER will eliminate your counterfeit doubts by ensuring guaranteed authenticity.

A quick way to spot obvious counterfeits is to evaluate the retail price. If the item’s price  is unrealistically lower than the market value, it’s probably a fake. When assessing a suspected fake, check for poor-quality: uneven stitching and puckered seams are subtle tells.

3. Damages may or may not impact the value

While damages can be unsightly, it is worth noting that not all types of damages can significantly decrease the value of the bag. Minor imperfections such as broken stitches may only minimally decrease value, but tears and cracks are cause for concern as they may signify potential for further deterioration.

4. The material matters

When acquiring a pre-owned item, it is essential to be well-informed of the materials used. Opt for materials known for their resilience to various elements. Leather, for example, is renowned for its longevity and durability with proper care. A bag made from satin may not retain its value as well as leather. However, if you are in love with the piece and are prepared to keep it out of the elements, this may not present an issue for you.

5. You cannot go wrong with premium brands and classic styles

A timeless piece from a prestigious luxury brand is likely to retain, or even increase in value over time. To acquire a handbag that exudes both prestige and timeless elegance, consider iconic designers and classic pieces that transcend trends. When seeking a pre-owned luxury handbag, brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Chanel offer a wide range of options that are eternally stylish. For those seeking to acquire a piece with resale value in mind, classic or rare items are always a wise choice.

6. Do not trust sellers that can’t guarantee authenticity

If you’re online shopping, you don’t have the luxury of checking the bag physically. This is where the return policy comes in. If the second hand bag you ordered isn’t as advertised, you should have the power to return it, no questions asked. 

Some online resellers offer a lifetime authenticity guarantee and are willing to refund 100% of your payment.  Be aware of resellers that offer time-limited guarantees for authentication. If the store is imposing a return period to check for authenticity, then something might be wrong.

Buying 2nd-hand luxury bags can be a smart and sustainable way to add a touch of decadence to your wardrobe. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you're making an informed decision when purchasing a pre-owned designer bag. From verifying authenticity, to inspecting the condition of the bag, it is important to keep these things in mind when shopping for a second-hand luxury bag. 

If you’re looking to buy designer bags online, it is crucial to only shop at reputable stores. From your dream second hand Chanel bag to that piece that caught your eye, you can be confident that you’re getting truly authentic second hand designer bags with EMIER.