10 Tips for Selling Clothes, Shoes & Accessories on Poshmark

- Lifestyle, Shopping

10 Tips for Selling on Poshmark

It’s the New Year, and we’re all starting on our New Year’s resolution or goals, and if you’re like me, trying to refocus on becoming more organized. With this in mind, I’m going through my clothes and closet once again to try to donate and sell anything that I haven’t worn in a long time (at least six months or so). So if you are looking to make your closet more manageable, and make some money along the way, I wanted to share some tips for selling on the app Poshmark!

If you are not familiar with Poshmark, it is an app that you can download, follow peoples’ closets, sell clothes, accessories, shoes and more. I have been on the app for a few years, but recently started using it more to sell some items I’m finally ready to let go of! I’ve made more than $50 selling just a few things over the past few months, and I continue to plan to sell more. Here are some things I’ve noticed and think of when selling that make my items sell fast (normally within a two week period) and for the price I ask for.

1. Price Your Items Honestly

What do I mean by this? I mean price your items at a price you would actually buy the item for. I know you want to make some money off of what you’re selling, and it can be hard to picture buying your own items (I mean you are getting rid of them after all), but if you price something ridiculously high, it won’t sell. Price it fairly based on wear and tear, brand, age, and how much someone could buy it or something similar for brand new. I rarely price anything over $40, unless if it is brand new with tags or never worn. Even then, I sell low because it helps me move more from my closet, and I’m not selling any designer clothes. Also, even if you only wore it twice, think about what that means to someone else. If you are only marking it down $5 to $10 off, to me as a buyer, it would be worth it just to buy it brand new (I think some exceptions to this would be sunglasses or a watch).

And remember there is one fee price of $4.99 shipping for the buyer. Keep that in mind when pricing. On the flip side, many people like to make offers and negotiate on Poshmark, so still price fairly, but start at the top of what you want, because someone might offer $5 lower and you might just want to take it! I’ve had multiple things sell where someone has made an offer for $3 to $5 less – to me that means they are just trying to knock down some of the cost of shipping.

Handbag description

2. Be as Descriptive as Possible

I have not always been the best at this because sometimes I feel like the photo does a better job describing what I’m selling, but that’s when you need to think about the details. Selling shoes? What’s the height on the heel (if any), what blemishes are there, what is the fit like (normal, wide, narrow), are they comfortable? Selling a handbag? What are the dimensions? Are there any blemishes? Is there one strap or are there two straps – and how long are they? See where I’m going with this? I recently sold a watch and someone asked me for the length so they would know how close it would be to fitting their wrist. I never even thought of such a detail. Now I try to think everything through.

flower girl dresses

3. Sell Quality Items

This really comes down to what do you donate and what do you sell. If it has multiple blemishes, is piling, is extremely uncomfortable, itchy, anything, don’t sell it! Even if you’re selling a top brand name, no one wants to buy something that has wear and tear, a stain, or won’t look nice. Also, if is something you’d only be willing to pay $5 for a thrift store, is it worth selling? Probably not.

I recently learned my lesson on this! I bought a brand new shirt for $18, and the arms were too tight on me. It was marked size Large, but fit more like a Meduim (I would argue Small even), so I decided to sell it for just $5 on Poshmark because it was brand new – brand spakin’ new – but just didn’t fit me. I don’t always buy the highest quality items and I thought I was being fair in the pricing – but I received 1 star because the buyer didn’t like the quality. This is why I’m making this a tip, because I’ve received 5 star reviews on everything else, but this buyer really hated the quality of the item and it didn’t fit the buyer properly. To be fair, I did describe the sizing, I’m not sure if that part was seen before the purchase, but yeah the item was not quality, hence the $5 price tag. But in the future, I don’t think I’ll sell anything that I want to price at $5 unless if it is higher quality because I don’t want more bad reviews, but more importantly I don’t want to upset anyone. It certainly wasn’t my intention to sell someone something they disliked so much!

4. Have at Least Five or More Items Available for Sale

If you want people to buy from you, you want to provide a variety, and you want to give them a reason to come back to your profile. If you sell something, list another item or find another item to sell and do it right away. When you get into the habit, you will continue to sell items, become credible and reliable on Poshmark, and have more people following you because they know you consistently post. You’ll also find your closet to be a lot happier! You will have more money in your pocket, more room and organization to your closet, and less choices to make in the morning – making it that much easier to get ready for the day.

Poshmark

4. Take a Variety of Pictures

It’s good to show everything you possibly can about the product. If it is a popular, well-known brand, take a picture of the tag so the buyer knows it is actually from the store. Take any images of small blemishes so the potential buyer can decide if they are okay with it or not. Take close-ups of any details that might help sell it (a cool zipper feature, intricate detailing, jewels, etc.) Show what the product looks like on, either on you or an image from the site. I don’t think it’s necessary to have super high quality photos, but try to get nice detailed shots, and I typically shoot on a faux fur white rug or use a blanket over my ottoman. It works well!

More rug/background options:

5. Interact/Share/Like Others

So I should really take my own tips, but just like social media and blogging, the more you interact, the more interaction you get. And shares are very important because you will be reaching their followers. So I don’t spend a ton of time on this, but I do make sure to scroll through and share some great deals with my readers!

Status

6. Share on Twitter and other Social Media Channels

… But don’t be annoying about it. I don’t need to say much here. Just like you wouldn’t overwhelm your personal channel with a bunch of blogging things or sponsored posts, you probably don’t want to overwhelm your blog channels with clothes you are selling. Share it when you first list it, maybe share it again if it’s relevant to something coming up. Are you selling a red or pink dress? Mention that it is the perfect dress for a Valentine’s date night. Also, sharing it on your blog is great too! Just maybe a quick mention in some of your outfit posts.

7. Ship Quickly

I was horrible at this at first, and waited until the very last day. When someone buys something, they want to receive it as quickly as possible! Just like you would if you were to buy from them or a store online. Make a habit of having a few boxes ready to go, an easily accessible printer, whether at work or at home, packaging tape and knowing where the easiest drop off is for you to ship. I used to think I could only ship if I dropped it off at a USPS location, but I could have always been dropping off outgoing packages at my apartment management office at the same time I was picking up my new packages. Easy peasy! Find what works for you and do it right away.

8. Make the Package Pretty

Take the time to add a little pizzazz to your package. It will make it stand out among other packages that they order from Poshmark, eBay, etc. and it will help them remember you. I purchased a package of tissue paper to use, and some crinkle packaging paper. Maybe even include a piece of candy, or something small just as a thank you. I always love to see how things are packaged and what people include when I receive items for blogging and reviewing. If you are a blogger who receives PR packages, take note from some of the companies who have sent you something and what you liked. A little extra effort will go a long way.

curly wigs

9. Include a Thank You Note

Not only is it polite, it helps build your relationships on Poshmark. Tell them you appreciate their support and to enjoy whatever it is they purchased. I think I have always gotten a high rating (minus the one review I mentioned earlier) and I’m sure that having nice packaging and a thank you note might just make the difference to many people. I love these these thank yous, these thank yous and these!

More of my favorite Thank You cards:

10. Improve Based on Customers’ Feedback

Finally, you can always improve by taking a look at the reviews people are leaving you. Remember the quality tip? Yeah, that’s what I learned very quickly after getting a low review. Maybe I would have been okay with buying that shirt for $5, but perhaps it isn’t worth selling on this app. Buyers can rate and comment on shipping, packaging, descriptions, quality, and more after receiving their package, so take that feedback and make your “Poshmark business” better! If there is something that’s out of your control, don’t get offended, move on and keep providing the best experience you can for people.

If you are on Poshmark already, you can follow me here! Otherwise, what are you waiting for?! Let me know if you have any other tips or any questions – feel free to email me at [email protected].

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35 Comments

  • Reply
    Amy Ann
    January 7, 2016 at 8:36 AM

    Good tips! I haven’t used Poshmark, but I always hear great things.

    Amy Ann
    Straight A Style

  • Reply
    Shannon
    January 7, 2016 at 9:31 AM

    These are such amazing tips! I have been thinking about trying this out but just never got to it so this was sooo helpful! Ps I’m in love with that puffer vest!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles

    • Reply
      Rachel
      January 7, 2016 at 11:07 AM

      You should definitely do it if you have a little extra time to dedicate to it! If you have a lot to sell, it’s totally worth it. I haven’t made as much money anywhere else!

  • Reply
    amy
    January 7, 2016 at 10:10 AM

    Great tips

    http://www.amysfashionblog.com/blog-home/

  • Reply
    Anna Wagner Schliep
    January 7, 2016 at 4:13 PM

    Solid tips. I've been using Poshmark since this summer and have made a decent bit from the items I've sold. It's really helped me clean out my closet and take a closer look at everything I have. There were so many dresses and tops that I just wasn't wearing because they weren't the perfect fit for me or didn't really fit the rest of my wardrobe. My Modcloth dresses and any J Crew items I had were the easiest sellers. Everything else seems pretty hit or miss.

    I go in spurts where I use Poshmark a lot and when I get bored it because it really can be a lot of work, and my sales seem to go in spurts as well – though the two don't always match up.

    • Reply
      Rachel
      January 7, 2016 at 10:58 AM

      Glad to hear you’ve had some success with it! I definitely think the more name brand items like JCrew and Modcloth would sell quickly, but I’ve found a lot of my “unknown” brands so to speak have sold well too recently. It definitely can be a lot of work! I felt that way for a long time, but now that it’s such a huge goal of mine to clean out my closet and make some extra money (which is all going to go in a savings fund for a house down payment), I think it’s been more fun for me!

      • Reply
        Marcella Ingram
        August 7, 2017 at 5:59 PM

        Rachel, thank you for the great tips, I have a question, regarding shipping, how can I decrease shipping cost, via USPS, UPS or Fedex, when I have several orders to ship?

  • Reply
    Olivia - Baubles to Bubbles
    January 7, 2016 at 11:39 AM

    I made an account years ago, and still haven’t used it! I’m hoping to get into it this year and start selling some stuff. So many people I know have had amazing success getting their clothes sold on Poshmark. Thanks for these tips, Rachel!

  • Reply
    KizzyDoll
    January 8, 2016 at 4:58 AM

    Great tips, have never used Poshmark before. Happy weekend x

  • Reply
    Imogen
    January 9, 2016 at 5:44 AM

    I haven’t heard of this before…but I have been selling a number of clothes recently via different methods. It is so good to have a sort out.

  • Reply
    Sarah Christensen
    January 9, 2016 at 5:13 PM

    I've been thinking about signing up for Poshmark to sell some stuff that I don't wear that often! These are great tips, thank you for sharing!! Have a great weekend! 🙂

    xo, Sarah
    http://www.thekissingboothblog.com

  • Reply
    Kelly
    January 9, 2016 at 6:58 PM

    Such great tips and I definitely appreciate quick shipping as a buyer and thank you notes go a long way!

    xx Kelly
    Sparkles and Shoes

  • Reply
    Emily Malmgren
    January 10, 2016 at 6:08 PM

    I just created a Poshmark account. So you really can only post items for sale with the app? My phone doesn't take good pictures.

    • Reply
      Christina
      November 29, 2019 at 1:32 AM

      Not at all. I use a laptop to list everything. I use my Coolpix camera and upload the pictures to my picture program. I cut out the dress on the form and put it on a white background.

      • Reply
        Rachel
        January 3, 2020 at 8:04 AM

        Hello! When I wrote this article you sadly could only post via the app – NOW IT IS SO MUCH better. I’ve updated my article to reflect that you can post via both now. I actually wrote into Poshmark’s development team SEVERAL times requesting the ability to post via desktop and it was the BEST news ever haha. I have fat fingers and it’s hard to type on my phone – so much better now on a desktop! Thank you for your comment and happy Poshmarking!

  • Reply
    Jessica
    January 10, 2016 at 12:42 PM

    Great tips! I just started selling on poshmark and it’s good to know what other people are looking for when they sell/buy.
    ~Jessica
    Jeans and a Teacup

  • Reply
    Rachel
    January 10, 2016 at 6:13 PM

    I tried using Poshmark for a couple of months but nothing sold. Nothing even got an interested buyer! I asked around and, like you said, it definitely takes work and time. I just want to sell my items, not interact with other buyers, etc. 🙁 It’s sad because I see a ton of cute stuff on there I’d buy, but it seemed like making a sale for me was just never going to happen. This was super helpful, though. If one day I change my mind, I will come to you for tips 🙂

  • Reply
    Fannie
    January 11, 2016 at 1:34 AM

    http://www.patagoniaoutletonlines.com

    I’m in love with your blog. Lovely post! Very well written. Keep in touch.

  • Reply
    Rachel Trampel
    January 11, 2016 at 3:19 PM

    Hi Emily! Yes, unfortunately you cannot post from your desk top. You can take pictures with a camera and then email the photos to yourself and use those instead of pictures from your phone! I know that is a bit more tedious, but if you're phone doesn't take good pictures, this might be a good option for you!

  • Reply
    Emily Malmgren
    January 11, 2016 at 4:06 PM

    Rachel Trampel. Thank you for your response and the tip.

  • Reply
    Melanie Kovach
    July 7, 2016 at 11:24 PM

    We just launched our swap app! 🙂 swap.rekindness.com

  • Reply
    BD
    September 7, 2016 at 3:46 AM

    I’ve been on Poshmark for almost a year, and I’ve made close to $5,000!!! And I get really good money for my things. I used to go to the local resale shops and would get maybe $3 for something, but with Poshmark I can price things at $50-$100 easily. I just sold a silk romper for almost $300. Granted, I only wear a lot of my stuff once or twice and take good care of it. But it’s really an amazing app and a great way to clean your closet and make decent side cash. Also, I have all 5-star ratings bc I package them nicely and write hand-written thank you cards. Ppl really love that and write that in their reviews. It can be annoying figuring out the materials and length and bust size and taking pics but for me it’s worth it and I just take out a Saturday once a month. Anyway, I highly recommend this app! Don’t be afraid to ask for higher prices bc they will try to haggle you down a little!

    • Reply
      Rachel
      September 7, 2016 at 9:16 PM

      Thank you so so much for your comment! That’s so exciting you are making so much from it! And yes, I think if you take great care of your items, you can easily sell at a higher price. And isn’t it crazy how important packaging and thank you notes are? I think that’s why my reviews have always been so high! Hope it continues going well for you 🙂

  • Reply
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  • Reply
    Kayla
    June 19, 2017 at 2:22 AM

    Really excellent article! I just joined Poshmark with the intention of selling some fun stuff! I will take what you said to heart. I particularly appreciate your emphasis on writing Thank You notes and packaging prettily. 🙂 Thanks, Rachel!

    • Reply
      Rachel
      June 19, 2017 at 11:34 AM

      Kayla,

      Thank you so much for your comment! And yes, these two things can really help distinguish you on Poshmark and help your “personal brand” for selling 🙂 It’s just such a nice touch to get a written note from the seller!

  • Reply
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  • Reply
    Yazmin
    October 7, 2017 at 10:38 AM

    Thanks for the great tips! I just started selling on Poshmark and am pretty excited! Ps…I love packaging! After reading your tips, I will for sure make packaging prettty!!!!

  • Reply
    Lindsay
    October 16, 2017 at 5:02 PM

    Great post – so helpful! I’ve been poshing for about a month, and it’s totally addicting! Hoping to build up my closet and get my side hustle on! Check out my closet at rad_racks. xo

    • Reply
      Rachel
      September 11, 2018 at 11:31 AM

      That’s awesome! Get it girl!!!!!!!!!!! It is addicting. I’ve slowed down a bit, but usually pick up in fall/winter when I spend a bit more time indoors!

  • Reply
    Kymber Leigh
    March 30, 2018 at 10:15 AM

    Is it just me or are jeans super hard to sell?
    I know that I try not to buy jeans anymore, because I’ve wasted so much money, thinking they will fit and maybe 1 pair out of 20 may work for me.

    • Reply
      Rachel
      September 11, 2018 at 11:33 AM

      Hey Kymber! Yes, I agree – jeans are hard to sell. I have only sold one pair online and probably will just donate in the future. I think you are right, unless you are selling well-known jean brands (rag & bone, Levi’s, etc.) the sizing can differ so much from brand to brand.

  • Reply
    Cynthia
    September 24, 2018 at 12:15 PM

    I’ve been invited several times to join “parties”. after I rsvp, what should I do? I don’t get how it works. I want to increase my broadcast of my closet.

    • Reply
      Rachel
      September 24, 2018 at 12:21 PM

      Hi Cynthia! So if you are invited to a party and RSVP yes, during the time of that party you have the option to share your closet items individually to the party. Anyone who clicks into the party will see all of the items shared to that specific party. It is a good way to get more eyes on your closet, but even a better way to connect with other Poshmarkers! For me, I’ve never made a sale during a party per say, but I’m sure it got more people to follow my closet which definitely helps.

      Hope that makes sense, let me know if you have any additional questions!

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