How to Choose the Best Items to Consign: A Data-Driven Guide for Maximizing Profits

1. Embrace the Power of Research: What Sells?

Before you even start sorting, dive into market research. What’s trending? What are buyers actively seeking?

• Online Marketplaces are Your Friends: Spend time Browse popular resale platforms like The RealReal, Poshmark, eBay, and local consignment shop websites. Pay attention to what items are listed, their condition, and, crucially, what has sold and for how much. Look for “sold listings” filters to get accurate pricing data.
• Brand Power is Paramount: High-end, well-known designer brands consistently perform better. Think luxury handbags (Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès), premium denim (AG, Citizens of Humanity), and designer shoes (Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo). These brands hold their value and have a loyal resale market.
• Seasonal Sensibility: Consignment is highly seasonal. Winter coats won’t sell well in summer, and swimsuits will sit in winter. Plan to consign items a season ahead of time to capture peak demand. For instance, list spring dresses in late winter, and fall sweaters in late summer.
• “Holy Grail” Items: Keep an eye out for rare, limited-edition, or highly coveted items that maintain or even increase their value on the secondary market. These are your true Hidden Treasures.

2. Condition is King: Quality Over Quantity

This is perhaps the most critical factor. No matter how coveted the brand, if an item is not in excellent condition, its resale value plummets, or it won’t be accepted at all.

• “Like New” or “Gently Used”: Aim for items that show minimal signs of wear. No rips, stains, significant pilling, missing buttons, or broken zippers.
• Cleanliness is Non-Negotiable: Every item must be freshly laundered, dry-cleaned, or meticulously cleaned according to its care instructions. Odors (smoke, mildew, strong perfume) are immediate deal-breakers.
• Originality Matters: If possible, include original dust bags, boxes, authenticity cards, or receipts for high-value items. This adds to their perceived value and verifies authenticity, enhancing recognition and trustworthiness.

3. Categorize for Success: Beyond Clothing 

While clothing is a consignment staple, don’t overlook other categories that can yield significant profits:

• Accessories: Designer handbags, high-quality jewelry (even costume pieces with a designer name), scarves, and sunglasses often have excellent resale value.
• Home Decor: Unique, high-quality, or vintage home decor items can be surprising sellers. Think accent furniture, art, decorative objects, or unique lighting fixtures.
• Electronics: Gently used, fully functional electronics (smartwatches, tablets, gaming consoles) can be consigned, but ensure all original accessories are included.
• Small Appliances: High-end kitchen gadgets or small appliances that are clean and in perfect working order.

4. Partner with the Right Consignment Partner

Choosing the right consignment venue is as important as choosing the right items.

• Local Boutiques vs. Online Platforms: Consider your items. High-end fashion often performs best on specialized online platforms, while unique vintage pieces might thrive in a local, curated boutique.
• Commission Structures: Understand the commission rates. They vary widely, usually from 40% to 60% (your share). Factor this into your expected profit.
• Reputation and Reach: Opt for partners with a strong reputation, good customer service, and a wide reach to potential buyers. At Hidden Treasures, we pride ourselves on our meticulous approach and commitment to maximizing your return. Our sophisticated process is designed to attract discerning buyers.

5. Patience and Presentation: The Final Touches

Once your items are selected and prepared, patience is key. Consignment can take time. Trust your chosen partner and ensure your items are presented in the best possible light. Great design, as we know at

Hidden Treasures, guides the viewer’s eye and ensures your key messages (or in this case, your item’s appeal) shine. The more visually appealing your items are, the faster they will sell and the higher price they will command.

Consignment is an art and a science. By approaching it with research, an eye for quality, and the right partner, you’ll transform your overlooked items into profitable Hidden Treasures.