Let me let you in on a little secret I’ve been using for years —one that’s saved me hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars and still lets me get the exact pieces I’ve been coveting from brands I love.

Now, before you think this means sacrificing quality or style, let me stop you right there. I’m talking about the same exact items you see online, in stores, on celebrities, and in influencer roundups just for a fraction of the price. And often, they’re barely worn, if at all.

There are a million reasons, but here are my top three:

1. Huge Savings—designer or trending pieces can often be found for 30–70% off retail.
2. Sustainable Fashion—it’s one of the most impactful ways to reduce waste and shop consciously.
3. Hard-to-Find Items—sometimes the only place to find something that’s sold out everywhere is the resale market.

Now, let me walk you through how I find the exact pieces I want—even if they’re sold out, rare, or no longer in production.

 

1. Start with the Original Listing
Find the item online—whether it’s Revolve, FWRD, Net-a-Porter, or even Zara. Take note of the item name, color, and size you’re looking for.
2. Screenshot the Product Image
This is a major key. Having a clean image of the item can help if it’s not listed under the same name on resale sites.
3. Use Reverse Image Search
Use tools like Google Lens, Pinterest Lens, or Chrome’s right-click image search to see where else this image appears across the internet.
4. Add Keywords to Narrow Your Search
Once you’ve got the search results, try typing in platforms like “Depop,” “eBay,” “Poshmark,” or “The RealReal” to help zero in on listings on those marketplaces.
5. Set Alerts
Many of these sites allow you to save your search and get notified when new items pop up. If you’re really committed to a certain piece, this is your best friend.

Let’s talk about these incredible HELSA Denim Slim Pants I was dying to get my hands on. Retail price? $258.
The problem? Overpriced and sold out everywhere.

So I did what I always do:

• I screenshotted the product image.
• I ran a reverse image search.
• I added keywords like “Depop,” and voilà—there they were.

Same exact jeans, my size, in perfect condition, for only $115.
With shipping, tax, and fees, my total came to $137.66.

That’s a savings of 47% off retail—and I got them even though they were sold out everywhere.

Whether it's a trending pair of jeans, a designer handbag, or a unique jacket you've had your eye on, don't sleep on the resale market. You don't need to sacrifice style or quality—just get smart with your shopping. 

Shopping pre-loved isn’t just a hack—it’s a movement. One that’s better for your wallet, your closet, and the planet.

 

Follow Luqsee on Instagram and TikTok—because great style shouldn’t cost the Earth (or your entire paycheck).