The Complete Guide to Shoe Consignment
How to Sell Luxury and Designer Shoes on Consignment
Designer shoes are the perfect accessory to accentuate any outfit. Not only are they comfortable to wear, but they can complement nearly any occasion and add a layer of protection to your feet. If you have a closet full of designer shoes that you’re looking to part ways with, you can sell some of your old ones on consignment to make room for more!
Before taking them to a buyer for valuation, it is important to know how to assess their condition correctly and what to look for before reselling them. This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know to get the most out of your designer shoe consignment.
Check the Material for Blemishes
When it comes to shoe consignment, the first thing you’ll want to look for is blemishes on the material. Fabric such as suede and untreated leather can quickly become stained, scratched, or otherwise blemished if not cared for or appropriately worn. Even the slightest spot can devalue a designer shoe when it comes time to resell.
If you have a pair of shoes that you’re looking to sell on consignment, but do not want to affect its value further, consider having it professionally restored. Many brands offer in-house restoration services. If such a service is not available, a skilled cobbler specializing in stain removal and other restorations should suffice.
Check the Soles for Signs of Wear
The next thing you should check for is any signs of wear on the soles. Wear and tear that can affect resale value includes scratches and knicks on visible parts of the sole, uneven wear, and balding, which is where the treads in the soles have become flat and smooth from repeated use. Soles that are coming apart from the rest of the shoe or that were once firm, and are now floppy or unsturdy, can also bring down resale value.
Check for Creases in the Fabric
Consignment shoe buyers want shoes that look as brand new and unworn as possible. One of the telltale signs of used shoes is creases in the fabric near that part where the toes bend as you walk. Depending on the shoe’s material, repeated toe bending can create a crease in the area where the middle of the shoe meets the tip. However, it is important to know that the shoe might lose points in value from creasing if it cannot be avoided.
Check the Condition of Buckles, Straps, or Laces
Shoe buyers also want secondhand shoes to retain their original features as much as possible. With that said, sellers should always check the condition of the original buckles, straps, or laces. If these accessories have been replaced with an off-brand substitute, it will further devalue the shoe.
Not sure if these components are the originals? You can compare the pieces on your shoe to pictures of the exact model online. Doing will allow you to ensure that these fastening components are original. If they have been replaced, the best way to restore them is to send them to the company that manufactured them for a replacement.
Check the Integrity of the Seams
The seams hold various parts of the shoe together. If they are frayed and unable to be mended, the fundamental structure of the shoe will collapse. When customers purchase designer shoes on consignment, they likely wish to enjoy them for long periods. If the shoes are not structurally sound, they will not inspire consumer confidence.
Check the seams closely, using a magnifying glass, if that helps. If any are frayed, you may want to contact the brand or a local cobbler to restore the seams. Ensure that you have them replaced with a color as close to the original as possible to prevent further devaluation.
Check the Condition of the Insoles
Nobody wants to buy shoes on consignment that smell like body odor. If the insoles are old, worn down, or smelly, replace them with a new one before a valuation. You may also consider contacting the brand to ask if they can replace the insoles or send new ones if they are interchangeable.
Check Any Extra Features
Some designer shoes feature extra embellishments, like pearls, rhinestones, metal studs, or similar materials that offer additional texture and aesthetic appeal. If your shoes provide these features, but some are missing or have fallen out over time, the resale value can become significantly affected.
It would be like selling a vintage Mercedes without the hood emblem. If you are missing any of these components, ask the brand if you can send the shoe in to have it restored. If they do not offer this service, you will likely have to sell the shoe as-is.
Check for Additional Accessories
Is the pair of shoes you’re selling part of a larger collection or bundle once offered by the designer brand? For example, were they intended to match a particular handbag, bracelet, or keychain? If you have other parts of the set that the shoe goes with, consider selling them along with the shoes to increase resale value.
Sell Your Own Shoes On Consignment
When looking to sell designer shoes on consignment, you can get the most value for your money by thoroughly inspecting each pair of shoes before you sell. Check for defective materials, wear and tear, odors, missing features, and other signs of use. Knowing what buyers look for can make it easy to clear out your wardrobe for some new items! If you are looking to sell your own designer or luxury shoes on consignment, contact us today or click here to submit your item.
Prefer to Sell Your Shoes Outright? Turn Them Into Closet Currency
Would you rather sell your shoes outright rather than on consignment? At OnQue, we can help you turn your unused footwear into Closet Currency. The best part? The process is simple. Here’s how it works:
- Visit our Closet Currency page
- Submit some information and pictures for the item you want to sell .
- We’ll give you an upfront price for your items
- If accepted, you’ll receive the payment immediately
- If you still prefer consignment, we will help you sell your item at your desired price point