Yes, there are some affiliate links in this post, but this is NOT an ad. I have used Poshmark for a few months now and I really love the website. If you use the code PEACEFIELDBLOG when you sign up and earn 10 dollars off your first purchase! (I earn 10 dollars also.)
If you’ve been following my Peacefield History Instagram page recently, you know that I’ve been trying to make more ethical and environmentally conscious decisions regarding my wardrobe. I donated a good portion of the clothing from my closet this past winter. I’ve also been trying to limit my purchases to clothing that is needed and not just wanted. Still, I run into three main issues with this process.
- I LOVE clothes.
- Winter is long in NY, and I really get tired of the same winter clothing by March. I honestly want to burn all of my clothing when I see that snow is still falling in April. I just become so sick of wearing that same darn sweater.
- The cost of ethical clothing makes me cringe sometimes.
Issue 1: I love clothes
Regarding issue 1, I’ve really been trying to cut down on my perceived “need” for something new. I really have been much better, especially in the summer months when I don’t go much of anywhere. Still, sometimes I just wanna scratch that itch.
Issue 2: Winter is FOREVER…
As for issue 2, I do need to take better care of the winter clothing I currently have. My winter esthetic may be best described as “women investigating a murder mystery in the Scottish highland.” Snuggly wool sweaters make up a good portion of my winter clothing. I recently purchased a gleener after I saw it was recommended by an incredibly prolific knitter. This items removes all the pills for a long worn sweater and makes it look fresh and new.
The cost of ethical clothing
Finally, issue 3 will remain a certain barrier for me for the time being. I have certainly looked at a lot of ethical clothing websites, however, sometimes the cost just stops me from making a purchase. Do I want that pretty $200 sweater? Yes. Can I justify the purchase? Usually, the answer is no.
I had heard about Poshmark – a used clothing marketplace – for many years. I had just never looked at the website. When I finally checked it out this past spring I was pleasantly surprised. There was all kinds of clothing, and the prices were significantly below retail.
How does Poshmark work?
With Poshmark, individuals post worn (or barely worn) clothing for sale. You can search by size, color, and brand, and limit your search to ethical clothing brands if you wish (there is Patagonia!) You can ask questions about the clothing on the listing, and I’ve generally found sellers to be really accommodating. I know my exact size in jeans for some brands, so I know they’ll fit when I order.
Is Poshmark an ethical way to shop?
Poshmark passes my ethical test. I’m making sure that clothing has a longer length of usability than it would otherwise. I can find well-made items from quality brands that I knew will last a long time. I’m also paying another living, human being for their clothing, not a corporation. I can really find exactly what I want, so I’m not wasting my money on the “good enough” items. Is it perfect? No, of course not! For one, it does have to be shipped to me, however, that would happen no matter where I ordered from. Really, it would be better if I didn’t purchase anything at all.
Honestly, I thought I was the last person to hear about Poshmark. I’ve seen mention of the website for years. However, when I started sharing how I loved the website with some of you, it turned out that you hadn’t heard of the website either.
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best Deal on Poshmark
- Fill out your size profile and only search for clothing in your size.
- Use a tape measure to measure the length of items on your actual body. You don’t want a sizing surprise when your item comes in the mail.
- Like, but don’t buy initially. Sellers will usually send you a discounted offer. You can also offer your own bid for items.
- Ask questions if you have them. Don’t buy if they’re not answered.
- Finally, if you really like something, make sure to jump on an offer. Items do sell!
As you scramble to put together or build your teacher wardrobe, I highly suggest checking out Poshmark. (Men also, there is men’s clothing on Poshmark.) You’ll be able to if you sign up for Poshmark right now, you can get 10 dollars off your first purchase by using the code PEACEFIELDBLOG.
