The RealReal’s 2025 Resale Report arrives at a time of economic uncertainty, where pressures like inflation and rising luxury price tags are driving shoppers to rethink their approach to fashion.
Today’s consumers aren’t just searching for style, they’re looking for smart, strategic investments that offer lasting value and flexibility. The resale market has rapidly evolved from a creative alternative to a powerful financial tool, with nearly one-third of all U.S. apparel purchases now secondhand and 47% of buyers
weighing resale potential before committing to high-dollar items , according to The RealReal Report. Deep dive into TheRealReal 2025 Report Let's uncover the top insights with retail expert Jeanel Alvarado ’s analysis of The RealReal’s 2025 Resale Report, which delivers essential business insights for retail professionals.
Here's the Top Luxury Insights from The RealReal 1. Customers now see secondhand as a strategic investment • The secondary market has become a common starting point for many shoppers, with 1/3 of clothing and apparel purchases over the past year being secondhand.
• 58% of consumers prefer shopping secondhand, driven by both sustainability concerns and the hunt for unique vintage fashion statements. • Consumers prioritize investment value: nearly half now assess how well an item will retain value before purchasing, especially as luxury price tags continue to soar. 2.
Iconic Brands and Double-Digit Growth • Searches and resale sales for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton (Speedy bags up 110%), Coach (searches up 160%), Tiffany & Co. (accessory value up 280%), and The Row (up 50%+) are surging. • Coach’s comeback solidifies its status as “affordable luxury,” with…