Let’s face it: luxury handbags are a major splurge, and if you’re like most of us, the thought of dropping thousands on a brand-new designer bag might leave you with buyer's remorse before the credit card bill even comes. But what if you could snag that coveted Hermes or Louis Vuitton for a fraction of the price?
Enter the world of preloved luxury handbags—the savvy shopper's ultimate hack for scoring iconic pieces at a fraction of the cost. With the global second-hand luxury market now estimated at a whopping $64 billion (up 14.5% since 2020) there’s never been a better time to dive in.
Here’s your ultimate guide to buying pre-loved luxury handbags, because why not treat yourself without the guilt?
Buying preloved offers you a chance to own high-end bags that are often gently used, often at a cheaper price and better quality than today. For instance, a brand-new medium Chanel Classic Flap costs over $10k, but you can expect to pay between £6k - $8k preloved. And bear in mind that vintage Chanel hardware was 24-karat gold plated…and it isn’t today.
Plus, luxury items are built to last. So, a bag that's been well cared for can still have decades of life left. And let’s not forget the environmental impact. Buying preloved is a sustainable choice, giving your future luxury handbag a second life while reducing waste.
Know What You Want
You wouldn’t walk into a luxury store blindfolded, right? Well, it’s just as important to do your homework when buying preloved. Whether you're after a classic Louis Vuitton Neverfull or a Dior saddle bag, knowing exactly what you want will help you avoid impulse buys that don’t spark joy.
Don’t forget to research the current market price for new bags—this will help you spot a deal and ensure you’re not paying more than necessary.
Condition, Condition, Condition
When it comes to preloved bags, condition is everything. Even luxury items can suffer from wear and tear, and that’s where you need to get picky. Check for things like scratches, stains, scuffs, and worn-out hardware.
Most preloved dealers offer a detailed condition report, and some will even provide close-up photos so you can judge for yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask for more details if you’re unsure—after all, this is a big investment, even if it’s secondhand.
Authenticity is Key
Scams are a thing. Don’t fall victim to buying a counterfeit when you could easily get your hands on the real deal. Look for reputable sellers (like us!) who specialize in luxury resale and offer authentication guarantees.
At Kreelaan we work with third-party authenticator Entrupy to give you peace of mind that what you buy with us is the real deal. We’re so confident that you’ll get an authentic item that we offer a 100% money-back guarantee plus shipping if it isn’t.
Pro tip: Always check the serial numbers and labels when shopping, and make sure the bag has all the hallmarks of genuine craftsmanship—like top-notch stitching and high-quality materials.
Haggle (But Be Cool About It)
While luxury bags are often priced high—even preowned—you don’t always have to pay the listed price. Depending on the seller or platform, you might be able to haggle a bit. If you spot a bag that’s been sitting around for a while, it’s worth making a reasonable offer. But keep it classy—no one likes the person who tries to lowball.
Buying preloved luxury handbags is not just a great way to save money—it’s a smart, sustainable, and exciting way to add a statement piece to your collection.
With the right knowledge, a sharp eye for quality, and a little patience, you’ll be carrying around a designer bag that’s got both style and a story to tell. Go ahead, treat yourself by shopping Kreelaan’s collection of preowned designer handbags.