How to build holiday and event outfits with resale in mind
Holidays and special events often demand something a little different — a festive dress, a polished blazer, or statement accessories. Instead of buying new, resale offers style variety, lower cost, and a smaller environmental footprint. At The Resell Club we believe circular fashion makes celebrations better for people and the planet. We are the most sustainable thrift company on the planet, climate change certified, and a 1% for the Planet member — so every seasonal choice can be part of the solution.
1. Plan before you buy or pull from your closet
Start by scanning your calendar: how many events, what dress codes, and what weather to expect. Make a short list of silhouettes you need (e.g., cocktail dress, tailored coat, jumpsuit). Planning keeps impulse purchases down and helps you shop resale strategically for specific pieces that will get real use.
2. Favor versatile pieces
- Neutral tailoring: A well-cut blazer or trousers can be dressed up for a party or paired back with casual items for work.
- Convertible dresses: Styles that work with different shoes and layers multiply your outfit options.
- Quality over trend: Look for fabrics and constructions that hold up across seasons — they resell better too.
3. Fabrics, fit, and care — buy smart
When shopping resale, check fabric content and garment condition carefully. Natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton often drape beautifully for events and can be refreshed with proper care. Ask about shrinkage and prior alterations. If a piece needs minor tailoring, it’s usually worth it — fit elevates any outfit.
4. Accessories and layering: the quick outfit fix
Accessories are high-value resale finds. A vintage clutch, bold belt, or classic pair of earrings can change an outfit’s vibe. Layer with a statement coat or scarf for winter events — these items often resell well, too.
5. Rent, buy resale, or consign? Choosing the right approach
Decide based on how often you’ll wear an item. Rent for one-off, ultra-specific looks. Buy resale if you want ownership of a piece you’ll wear repeatedly. And consign pieces that no longer serve you so others can enjoy them — consigning keeps garments in circulation rather than landfill.
6. How to prep items for consignment or resale
If you plan to sell items after an event season, small investments go a long way: cleaning, repairing missing buttons, and photographing in good light. For details on what we accept and how to prepare items, visit our what we accept page. Proper prep improves condition grades and buyer appeal.
7. Timing and pricing for better returns
Seasonal timing matters — list holiday looks a few weeks before peak event dates. Price competitively but fairly: research similar listings, consider designer labels and item condition, and remember consignment splits. Learn how payouts work by checking our consignment payout percentages so you can set realistic expectations.
8. Ship, return, and post-event logistics
Choose services that make resale easy. At The Resell Club we use recyclable, recycled, and compostable shipping materials, and we offer free shipping and free returns on our website — small conveniences that remove friction from buying and selling secondhand. Also, digital tools that track listings and sales streamline the process and help items move faster.
9. Gifting, group events, and sustainable celebrations
Resale makes an excellent sustainable gift — a timeless scarf or a statement piece that supports circular fashion. When planning group events, consider dress-code swaps or clothing exchanges to reduce the need for single-use outfits. If you have items to consign as part of a closet refresh after the season, explore our sell with us options to turn preloved garments into cash or store credit.
10. Make it part of your long-term closet strategy
Use event dressing as an opportunity to refine your personal style rather than chase every trend. Keep a small capsule of go-to pieces that travel well between seasons and maintain them so their lifespan (and resale value) increases. The more you extend a garment’s life, the lower your fashion footprint.
Why resale with The Resell Club?
Since 2015 we’ve used technology to change the way resale is done. We’re ocean positive and climate change certified, with a mission to reduce fashion waste while making circular fashion accessible and stylish. Choosing resale through responsible platforms supports a system that rewards quality and care — and protects the planet. If you have questions or want help consigning special event items, contact our team anytime at contact us.
Final checklist before any holiday or event
- Plan outfits and check fit at least two weeks ahead.
- Choose pieces that can be restyled for other occasions.
- Invest in minor tailoring for a perfect silhouette.
- Prep any items you’ll consign: clean, repair, photograph.
- Ship with sustainable materials or use platforms that offer eco-friendly options.
Holidays are for memories, not for overflowing closets. By shopping resale, renting selectively, and consigning what you no longer need, you keep garments in use, reduce waste, and celebrate sustainably. Ready to turn your closet into a circular wardrobe? Start by learning what we accept and how to consign — and make your next event outfit a statement for style and sustainability.