Auction site eBay has long been the place to pick up a bargain, usually from another private seller who’s ready to part ways with some long-forgotten piece of clothing at the back of their wardrobe. Spend enough time sifting through the digital racks and you’ll stumble across allsorts, from 80s shell suits to vintage handbags.
But it’s also a great place to pick up outlet products from retailers: brands like Dyson, Simba, Microsoft and Apple all sell refurbished, as new goods on the platform too.
If you’re one for designer names, the latest section should turn your head - imperfects.
Offering slightly damaged clothes and accessories, often barely visible at first glance (think tiny mark or a faint stain), this is the place to pick up luxe labels like Gucci, Chloe, Prada, YSL, Jimmy Choo and Stella McCartney for up to 60 per cent less than the RRP.
It’s not all old stock either; many listings are for clothes and accessories that are in season. In an industry lambasted for its wasteful practices (various fashion brands have been rightly criticised for throwing out old stock, or worse, burning them to preserve their exclusivity) buying on eBay seems to offer a way to save perfectly good luxury items from landfill.
There are more than 3000 items from 180 high street and high-end brands waiting to be snapped up in the section right now, but to save you time (not to mention prevent carpal tunnel from frantic scrolling) we’ve collated the choicest picks for you below.
Get ready to save, big time - shop now.
GUCCI Mens Bag Orgasmique Brown Horsebit Leather Tote
Was: £2300
Saving: 50 per cent
Down by half from the original price of £2300, this men’s bag from Gucci comes with an Authenticity Guarantee, which means it’s verified by someone before delivery - great reassurance if you’re hesitating on a splurge on this luxury item. From the images it looks like the only flaw is a faint white mark on the reverse of the bag; otherwise it’s in perfect condition.
Buy now £1150.00, eBay
Attico Womens Sandal Baby Crystal Trim 100 Wrap-around Ankle
Was: £644
Saving: 70 per cent
Aside from some scratch marks on the sole, these Attico sandals embellished with crystals are brand new. Perfect paired with an LBD come date night, they’ll knock everyone’s socks off.
Buy now £276.00, eBay
Nike Ladies Air Max 90 White Leather Trainers
Was: £115
Saving: 40 per cent
Nothin’ like a fresh pair of kicks to put some pep in your step. Nike’s Air Max’s are the classics and this pair are ex-display stock, which is why they’ve found their way into eBay’s Imperfects section. Some pairs may have slight discolouration and minor markings but it’s nothing that you wouldn’t get yourself after a few wears of a brand new pair. They’ll also come unboxed, so this is more of a self-treat than a gifting scenario.
Buy now £69.50, eBay
Balenciaga Womens Shoes Black Patent Leather BB Slingback Flats
Was: £655
Saving: 49 per cent
A smart pair of flats when your feet are screaming at the thought of wearing heels are an extremely helpful thing. Available in a UK5, it’s not immediately noticeable what the flaws are from the images (which are of the exact pair you’ll be sent) and at this incredible price, we’re not sure we care.
Buy now £329.00, eBay