The FJ editors share their favourite eBay search hacks

“Chances are there’s someone who’s purchased it and had buyer’s remorse”.

The first time I opened the eBay app, I remember I was aimless. With no aim but to ‘browse’ I found myself scrolling through thousands of pre-loved fashion items that really had no place being on my feed. I scrolled past jeans that were five sizes too big for me, childrenswear (I don’t have children), and dresses from labels whose style sits far, far apart from my own. 

It was a little like opening Google and typing in ‘summer dress’. Sure, it rendered results, but they were not exactly the kind I was searching for.

For more on the circular economy, head to our Pre-Loved section.

Having now spent significant time on eBay, I’ve learnt that while the interface is simple, there’s an art to finding its hidden gems. In the FJ office, most of us have now (with time and practice) curated our own techniques for navigating the app, ensuring it delivers us the pieces we actually want. There’s no hidden formula per se, but there are plenty of ideas to cleverly use the resale platform and render the best results for your personal style.

Lara Daly, Fashion Journal’s Features Editor

My search hack is browsing the kids’ section on eBay for cute homemade knitwear. Obviously, I’m checking the measurements and looking for larger kids’ sizes but generally, pieces like sweaters and cardigans are pretty forgiving if you’re after a slouchy look. I’ve found many a handknit vest for under $30 that look just as cute as my $500 designer number. I also love browsing the men’s section for genuine leather belts and loafers that never go out of style.

Giulia Brugliera, Fashion Journal’s Managing Editor

I always crawl eBay in the days and weeks following a brand sample sale. Often, people will have jumped to buy an item because of its heavily discounted price tag, and settled for a shape that doesn’t suit their personal style or is slightly off-size. Usually, these pieces are barely worn and are selling for even lower than the sample sale prices. It’s also a great hack for sample sales that are interstate or overseas. While I could never justify travelling for a sample sale, I can always bank on at least some pieces being available on eBay in the weeks after.

Molly Griffin, Fashion Journal’s Advertising and Partnerships Manager

Knowing that sizing, length and general fit are never consistent across new clothing, let alone pre-loved clothing, I open up my size range to one below and above my ordinary dress size. Considering I’m  normally getting the piece heavily discounted, I don’t mind spending a little bit to get it tailored to fit me perfectly. I’ve found this works the best with dresses, pants and tailored tops.

Georgina Woolcock, Fashion Journal’s Partnerships and Campaign Executive

Whenever I’m looking to buy a piece that’s new season, I always search eBay for the exact style name before I decide to purchase directly from the label. Particularly for established Australian designers, chances are there’s someone who’s purchased it and had buyer’s remorse, wasn’t able to get a refund or has worn it for a singular event and decided to quickly relist. The pieces are always in fantastic condition because of their low wear, and you’re contributing to cyclical fashion.

Daisy Henry, Fashion Journal’s Assistant Editor

When I first travelled to Japan last year, I was in awe of its secondhand, vintage market. I scored some great pre-loved designer finds, including an Acne Studios jacket, a Ganni shirt and a pair of Jean Paul Gaultier trousers – and not one thing was priced over $80. Since returning, I’ve realised you don’t necessarily need to be in Japan to shop its range of vintage, designer styles. After some browsing on TikTok, I’ve come across an entire eBay world of Japanese eBay stores. I saved a few recommended sellers that people have had good experiences with, but typically when I search, I’ll look out for profiles with positive feedback and listings with plenty of photos and information. I’ll also keep an eye out for the Authenticity Guarantee when searching for designer handbags.

Start sharpening your own pre-loved fashion seeking skills on eBay.

eBay is not endorsed by or affiliated with any of the brands referenced in this article.