How vintage 2000s fashion became big business thanks to re-selling sites

Introduction

The world of work is changing dramatically, with the internet playing a pivotal role in creating new avenues for making a living. In this evolving landscape, we explore the rise of digital industries and meet individuals who have turned their passions into full-time jobs. One such success story is Amber, the founder of Timeless Wear, an online vintage fashion label that started with selling 2000s clothing on reselling sites.

In this episode, we meet Amber, a Brighton resident whose vintage fashion label has gained popularity and credibility. With over 90,000 followers and more than 12,000 vintage items sold, Amber’s journey is indeed remarkable. She runs her fashion label from the main bedroom of her flat, showcasing her dedication and passion for vintage fashion.

Amber's business began on the reselling platform Depop, where she first started selling secondhand clothing. Timeless Wear specializes in exclusively secondhand items sourced from various outlets, including wholesalers, car boot sales, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. Amber shares, “I do love going to car boots for fun. If I happen to find stock there, then it's great.” Over time, she has established connections in the industry, expanding her sourcing strategies.

Since her inception in 2015, Amber has sold over 12,000 items, earning more than £140,000 in revenue in the last year alone. The profit margins vary significantly; in some cases, items can be sold for five times their original price, while others may not even yield 50% profit. Amber aims to price her items reasonably, avoiding exorbitant markups on popular vintage pieces.

Social media plays a crucial role in Timeless Wear's growth, boosting word-of-mouth and attracting celebrity customers, including Bella Hadid and Madison Beer. Amber recounted a surprising moment when she discovered that Hadid had purchased one of her items without initially realizing it.

Amber’s venture into the business grew during the pandemic, a time when many others faced challenges. For Amber, the lockdown allowed her more time to focus on her online business, purchasing items and connecting with her growing community. Transitioning from being a top seller on Depop to launching her label, she has gradually shifted her business model to include her website and pop-up events.

With secondhand shopping gaining popularity, Timeless Wear is part of a broader shift towards making vintage fashion mainstream. Still, like many businesses, Amber's operation faces challenges, particularly amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. Consumers are now less inclined to buy in bundles, preferring single items instead. Amber reflects on the difficulties of navigating these market changes but remains optimistic about the future.

“There’s a lot more accessibility now,” Amber says, referencing the increased interest in thrift shopping among young people. Platforms like Vinted and Depop, alongside social media trends, have made vintage shopping a widely accepted norm.

In conclusion, Timeless Wear symbolizes a promising new era in vintage fashion, driven by creativity, community, and the power of the internet.

Keywords

Vintage Fashion
Timeless Wear
Reselling Sites
Depop
Secondhand Clothing
Profit Margins
Cost of Living Crisis
Social Media
Celebrity Endorsements
Accessibility

FAQ

What is Timeless Wear?
- Timeless Wear is an online vintage fashion label founded by Amber, focusing on selling exclusively secondhand clothing.
How did Amber start her business?
- Amber began selling secondhand clothes on Depop and gradually grew her business into a brand.
What eras of clothing does Timeless Wear specialize in?
- The brand primarily features fashion from the late '90s to the early 2000s.
Where does Amber source her vintage items?
- Amber sources her items from wholesalers, car boot sales, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.
How has the pandemic affected Amber’s business?
- The pandemic allowed Amber to focus more on her online business, ultimately helping her grow her community and sales.
What challenges does Timeless Wear face currently?
- Timeless Wear is experiencing challenges due to the cost of living crisis, resulting in a shift in consumer purchasing behavior.