Frida Rose Gaspar

Fashion week may come and go across the globe, but closets are forever… at least that is what designer fashion brands want you to think when you invest in one of their pieces. Runways for luxury designers everywhere have debuted collections with price tags the average consumer could only dream of affording. This ultimately creates a sense of “hype” and exclusivity around a brand, creating classic designers like Gucci and Louis Vuitton that have been known for decades simply by their monogrammed design. 

Consignment Stores are not a new concept. I like to think of them as the big sister to the thrift. Usually more expensive and with higher quality items. However, online consignment has been a growing demographic in the last decade and now has extended into a multibillion-dollar industry. In a deep-dive analysis into the Real Real, written by Susan Orlean for The New Yorker, the growth of the resale industry is set to reach $64 billion dollars by 2028. 

As an avid fashion consumer, I have always wondered why it seemed like there were so many influencers, and seemingly average people walking around in designer. Granted, I grew up in the heart of Los Angeles, Hollywood, so it is safe to say my view may be biased due to my environment. Nonetheless, luxury brands, like any other clothing brand, ultimately will end up in the hands of Thrift and Consignment Stores, or Average Consumers who find a way. Or they find their way online, to sites like The Real Real. 

So what makes these companies so different from a trip to your local consignment store? It’s all in the experience, Orlean writes. The article surrounds the relationship between Chasity Saunders, and her consultant from the company, Sarah Ro. As the article explains, Ro’s job as a consultant with The Real Real is to persuade her client, Saunders, to sell. Saunder’s incentive to clear out designer items is simply transactional. Saunders states, “For me—well, I just love to shop. And right now I have my eye on a Y.S.L. bag that I saw on TheRealReal.” 

Thus, the symbiotic relationship between the company and its consumers adds to the loyal fanbase The Real Real has amassed since its launch in 2011. Consultants become more than just business people looking for inventory. Orlean describes them as fashion consultants, and curators, advising clients on what to keep and what is worth selling. 

Like Orlean, I agree that The Real Real has opened avenues to a wealthier demographic than your average Buffalo Exhange or Crossroads. The connections within the company also add to the brand and elevate The Real Real beyond their brick and mortar competitors. If you are looking to dip your toe in luxury, head over to The Real Real. You are sure to find a unique piece to start or add to your collection. 

By Frida Gaspar