With Australian Fashion Week 2024 in full swing, the stakes for nailing street-smart style have never been so high. Whether you’re sitting front row, or following @ausfashionweek on Insta, the pressure to keep up with the latest trends is palpable. But, what’s a label lover to do when their desire for all things designer clashes with the harsh reality of the cost of living crisis? According to eBay research, the answer lies in purchasing pre-loved. As Aussies increasingly turn away from fast fashion, investing instead for vintage/ retro / old-school pieces, they’re opting to not only embrace sustainable shopping but also find ways to make extra cash by selling their own vintage finds.
Fast fashion findings
eBay’s research sheds light on the rapid shift away from fast fashion in Australia. One in five Aussies has decreased their purchase of fast fashion over the past three years. With 10% reporting a significant decrease. A staggering 31% of Australians are now turning to pre-loved fashion as a conscious choice to avoid contributing to the fast fashion movement.
Moreover, the passion for pre-loved fashion extends beyond just purchasing. The average yearly returns for pre-loved fashion sellers have surged by 25% between 2022 and 2023. With Aussies now earning $1,538 annually from selling pre-loved items.
With 70% of Australians owning a pre-loved fashion item. And, nine in ten revealing that they intend to continue purchasing pre-loved fashion in the future, it’s evident that pre-loved is the future of Aussie wardrobes.
Four key fashion-expert-approved trends
To further help fashion fans stay ahead of the curve, eBay also unveiled the Pre-Loved Fashion Covet List. A comprehensive style guide forecasting the biggest fashion trends of 2024, as seen on international runways. The Covet List explores key trends, based on four of Australia’s most successful stylists (pictured above). These are:
- Elliot Garnaut’s ‘Elevated Outdoor’
- Maggie Zhou’s ‘Patterns Galore’
- Jessica Pecoraro’s ‘Classic Dressing’
- Jessica Alizzi’s ‘Cuffed Denim’
These trends showcase the diversity and versatility of pre-loved fashion, offering something for every style preference and occasion.
Style tips to help you fall in love with pre-loved
Style Tips to Make Preloved Work for You
So, keen to get onboard. But, a little concerned that embracing pre-loved fashion means sacrificing style? You need not worry, with these simple tips to help you incorporate pre-loved pieces into your wardrobe seamlessly.
- Mix and match vintage finds with contemporary pieces for a unique look.
- Experiment with layering and accessorising to add depth and dimension to your outfits.
- Don’t be afraid to tailor pre-loved items to fit your body perfectly.
- Explore different eras and styles to find what resonates with your personal aesthetic.
- Finally, embrace the sustainability and individuality that pre-loved fashion offers, knowing that you’re making a positive impact on both the environment and your personal style.
To download the full Covet List, head to ebayinc.com
