The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Secondhand Show Clothing

By: Delores Kuhlwein/Show Me Again

Does the sparkly sea of show clothing leave you feeling overwhelmed?  Perhaps you’re reeling from sticker shock?  Many competitors have discovered that buying show clothing secondhand is the smartest move you can make and the best way to obtain the quality and style you want for a fraction of the cost.

Navigating the consignment clothing market can seem treacherous, but read on for some good advice from Show Me Again, the innovators of show clothing consignment with over 15 years of experience.

DO:   Measure Yourself

Even though clothing is typically divided into numbered sizes or groups, such as small, medium, or large, the best bet to ensure proper fit is to utilize measurements. The most common measurements for a top or jacket include bust, waist, shoulder, sleeve length, and back length. Measurements for pants and chaps include waist, inseam, outseam, and length. Using a measurement guide that’s provided by a designer is key, and having a friend help you is an even better idea. Also, using a soft, flexible tape will help with accuracy.

Any consignment store worth its salt should be able to provide you with measurements, instead of a S, M, or L size, since those can vary from designer to designer. Often, designers and consignment stores take their measurements with the garment lying flat, but doing so works remarkably well compared to measuring someone “in person.” Search your favorite consignment store’s website for a sizing and measuring guide.

DO:  Consider stretch

When a garment has stretch, it can add as much as an extra two inches to the size, depending on fabric. When a piece has stretch, you should expect that the store’s listing will include a range of measurements possible for areas like the bust and waist.

A piece with stretch will enable you, not only to be more comfortable, but also to continue to wear it if your weight fluctuates. Also, if you show in a cold climate, you can add an extra layer underneath.

In addition, having some degree of stretch will make the option of resale more attractive, since the piece will fit a wide array of exhibitors.

DON’T:  Rule out pieces without stretch

Garments without stretch may provide the professionally tailored and structured appearance that an exhibitor desires, but keep in mind that measurements don’t take into consideration your ribcage expansion or the difference in your body when sitting on horseback versus standing. For instance, you may think a jacket length looks too short, when you’re standing and looking in a mirror. However, when sitting in the saddle with chaps on, the length may be perfect after all.

DO:  Expect Detailed Listings

Buyer beware! Professional consignment companies are experts in selling pre-owned merchandise and have a lot of experience in the manufacture, care, transportation, and pricing of your garment.

When making an investment in show clothing, you should have high expectations about the listing for the piece that has caught your eye. For example, there should be more than one photo available and a description of the condition, adornment, fabric, designer/manufacturer and more.

DO:  Try it On

Even though it’s normal to expect slight alterations of a consignment piece, nothing replaces trying it on! Expect to be able to try on a garment at a mobile showroom at a horse show, or ask for the shipping and return policies of the store. Any reputable consignment company will offer a trial period or a generous return policy. Shipping methods can vary a great deal, and you’re more likely to get a professional shipment with a business rather than with an individual selling their clothing.

Do assume that slight alterations may be needed, but it’s likely that the consignment price plus the alteration will still be a great bargain.

DON’T:  Be Easily Swayed

Even though the work and detail put into a custom garment can justify a high price tag, don’t be swayed by the price. Reputable consignment companies are experts at the new and fair market price for pre-owned items. Many factors go into pricing a pre-owned piece including age, color, current style, condition, quality, and demand of the designer.

It’s beneficial for the buyer to learn the market and compare prices of similar pieces on many different sites. It’s not usual to see pre-owned pieces priced higher than the new price of an item, if the consignment company is inexperienced. Don’t forget the reason you’re shopping second hand is to save money, so check prices of new pieces as well.

DO:  Get Connected

Staying in touch with a designer or clothing consignment store you like can really pay off.  For example, joining an email list (like the Show Me Again “Just Added Club”) can give you access to private sales and provide an opportunity for first-crack at just-listed clothing.

Don’t just “like” a page on social media. Make an effort to follow the page, because oftentimes business posts don’t automatically show up in your news feed. Following the same designer or store on social media also gives you a first glance at newly arrived pieces and great sale pieces.

Many times, consignors need to “cash out” their clothing for various reasons, such as vet bills, family emergencies, or to replenish their new clothing funds, so they become very motivated and may be willing to sell their merchandise at a greatly reduced rate.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the garment; horse showing is an expensive sport, and it’s important you love what you wear!

Stay tuned for the next article in our series, Selling Your Show Clothing: a Guide to Consigning.