designer shoe edition

I love the thrill of the hunt. Most shopping for me is all about the act of looking through racks, feeling the fabrics, examining the cuts, and exploring every detail. I love details. I find so much beauty and joy in the little details that make up a garment, bag, pair of shoes, etc. So… when it comes to shopping online resale sites like The Real Real and eBay, most of this magic gets lost. 

BUT the allure of finding amazing vintage pieces for incredible pieces was/is too much for me to miss out on. Over the past few years, I’ve become somewhat of a professional at online shopping sites, especially The Real Real. I use it on both ends, buying and selling. I’ve found so much success and wanted to share some tips and tricks I use to make the process seamless and quite successful. I filmed my latest haul so once you finished reading, hop on over to IG to check out my latest finds and a process that I find works really well.

Stick to your list

It is very easy to get distracted online, especially because there is sooo much more volume. I’ve learned it’s very important to stick to what you're looking for. I’m not saying you can’t shop for other items, but try to write them down and plan for a another search. I’m very strict with sticking to one category at a time because as you dive deeper, you will become more of an expert and learn what to look for as you continue on your hunt. Let’s take my latest search for example, festive holiday party shoes.

Using The Real Real, one of my favorite online resale sites, I made a list of my non-negotiables (open toe, heel height between 3-4 inches, no silver, under $250) and used the filter tool which saves A LOT of time. I find that when I start really focusing on only these criteria I can go through many pages and hone in on only the best in the category and easily sort out what’s not for me. 

I also think it’s important to know your size depending on the designer. No sense in wasting your time on shoes not in your size. It’s important to have a very clear mindset or else you will get distracted by everything. Of course, leave room for unexpected finds and save these for a later search.

Must be returnable 

I think this is pretty straightforward, but don't waste your time with shoes you can’t return. It’s important that shoes fit perfectly because you are wearing them for hours. I know from experience that no matter how much you love a shoe, you will find excuses not to wear them if they're uncomfortable. Checking to see if they can be returned (because some items on the site can’t be returned) is part of my 3-point checklist before I put a pair of shoes in my cart. 

Buy in bulk

The Real Real charges you once for shipping no matter how many pieces you purchase. It’s around $12.95. I always try to buy everything I want at the same time to save money on separate shipping fees. It’s also good to note there is a return shipping fee as well, so I do this all at the same time as well. If you’re lucky enough to have a location near you, I suggest dropping off returns there because they waive the fee.

Check it twice

Nothing is worse than buying something and realizing it’s not your size, the wrong heel height, or you can’t return them….ahhhh! I go through a 3-point check on every shoe I put into my cart and once more before I buy. It doesn't hurt and it has saved me time and time again. Check out my IG account for videos on what this process looks like. 

Recap: My 3-Point Checklist

1. Does the item meet your non-negotiable list?

2. Is it your size?

3. Is the item returnable?

I hope these pointers help. This is a great time of year to find amazing deals. Every time I’m on the site, I’m blown away by what I can find for a fraction of the price and most of them are never even worn. I’m such a fan of resale sites and shopping like this when you can. This is my favorite way of creating more sustainability in my life and intentional consumption.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me.

Cheers to 2023!

jodi xx