A very personal note
The idea to organize an online second-hand store “Overcoat No. 5” came to us almost seven years ago. We read everything we could about second-hand. And about the fact that it was born thanks to the enviable wealth of Europeans, which allows them to change things every season without wearing them out. And about the fact that these rich Europeans were not used to throwing things away, which meant that some acceptable forms of transferring them to other people had to be born. And about how charitable and commercial organizations began going door to door, and how they began to collect second-hand clothes in schools, and how they installed special containers near their houses, and people themselves brought used clothes there. Then they are taken to specially created factories for sorting, disinfection... Well, etc.
It was interesting to learn that second-hand items also include completely new items; they are brought from various companies that were unable to sell the seasonal collection. The most reputable ones remove all the “identification marks” so that they don’t think that they have stopped buying them, which is why in second-hand stores you often find new things without labels.
You can learn a lot of interesting things on the Internet about second-hand goods. But it’s one thing to hear, and another thing to see.
At first, when we received factory bags of second-hand goods from abroad, we rolled our eyes when we took out things that smelled of gas. We wanted to take everything that fit our size, the dresses, jackets, jeans and other clothes were so unusual and cool. And we took it and flaunted it in branded clothes, surprising our friends. Then the excitement passed, but respect for what we sell remained, and the desire to dress only in the online store “Overcoat No. 5” also remained.
And when we receive letters of gratitude from our regular customers, we are glad that thanks to us, they, like prosperous Europeans, can now afford to change their clothes every season. Why not, because now they can afford it! Especially when, like now, we make serious discounts. Well, where else can you buy a Puma T-shirt for 50 rubles, an H&M jumper for 100 rubles, a Pimkie cardigan for 125 rubles?! And it’s not even about the names of well-known companies, but about the quality of the clothes, which will not fade or turn into a rag after the first wash, but will remain bright and stylish until you get tired of it. This is what makes branded clothing different.
Today I was collecting parcels for shipment and, to be honest, I was surprised at how many good things there were 
people buy for very little money. Well, for example, one of our clients took a jumper, bra, top, shirt, three T-shirts, shorts and a skirt, paying 1,291 rubles for everything (including delivery). Another for 2710 rubles. I bought two capri pants, two breeches, two beautiful jackets, two sweatpants made of soft eco-friendly fabric, a bright stretch windbreaker, a blouse, four jumpers and a vest. Moreover, all things are not only in perfect condition, some of them are completely new. Try to buy so many things in regular stores for that amount!
The geography of our mailings is extensive, our clients live in the Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Khabarovsk territories, in Buryatia, in the Stavropol region, in the Vologda, Moscow, Nizhny Novgorod, Leningrad regions, in Moscow, St. Petersburg, in the Urals, in the Caucasus, in the Far North, yes almost all over Russia. Some places only deliver mail by plane. And our parcels fly to distant lands, and we feel proud that we help men come to work in things that are in no way inferior to those in which their highly paid bosses flaunt, and women feel more beautiful, younger, more elegant... in In general, we help people be a little happier.
Daria LISTOPADOVA
A crisis is a time of change. Those who manage to adapt survive. Those who remain in the past perish in the abyss of new prices and old salaries. I suggest we talk about how you can save on clothes. After all, for many, shopping is one of the most expensive items in the family budget. You can save for 3 months by not buying candy or giving up your favorite drawing classes, and then “drain” all your supplies in one trip to the shopping center... So, tighten your belt - look to the side second-hand stores and stocks.
We learn materiel: what is second-hand and what is stock?
Second hand - a store where you will be offered used clothes. But the fact that it is used does not mean that it looks unsightly! Although many people still have the same idea about clothes and shoes from second-hand stores:
In response to skeptics, I suggest you evaluate the Emilio Pucci Sweater, found in one of the online second-hand stores. Checkmate, critics!
The topic, by the way, has already gone on the Internet. For example, I recommend looking at the site http://secondfriendstore.ru/ (the sweater with the photo above was seen there) and similar ones. I was convinced that you can buy yourself cool, original things at online thrift stores.
Main nuances:
- Cheap. Clothes are usually sold by weight, so in the first days after delivery, prices are at their maximum, after which they gradually decrease (evenly with the availability of good goods).
- You know nothing about the previous “owners” of the clothes.
- Sometimes you come across branded clothing.
Service varies. Previously, second-hand stores usually operated in semi-basement mode. Now more and more second-hand “markets” are opening - supermarkets, minimarkets and so on. In such large stores, the turnover is high enough to pay the staff decently. So the stereotype about the poor service in second-hand stores is gradually fading into oblivion.
Now let's talk about drains.
Stock – a store that sells leftover stock from stores. By the way, “stock” is translated as “residues”.
Main nuances:
- Discounts on shoes and clothing in such stores reach 70%.
- The product is new, still with tags, has nothing to do with used. Once again, STOCK = NEW CLOTHES.
- There are good things from famous brands.
For a long time (for some reason) in Russia, visiting stock stores was considered shameful. At the same time, in developed European countries, stock shopping has long been considered a wise approach to replenishing a wardrobe, which is treated with understanding and respect. Fortunately, this understanding has recently settled in our domestic consciousness.
Where do the goods in stock come from?
- From large retail chains. By the end of the season, stale goods begin to be a “burden”, so it is more profitable for the owners to quickly sell them to stocks.
- From branded boutiques, which “discard” incomplete size collections or products with minor defects, which are important for buyers in boutiques and insignificant for stock visitors.
- From factory stocks for the production of clothing. After orders are completed, factories may still have stocks of materials that are more profitable to use for sewing an additional batch of products and selling them in stocks.
In general - no crime, everything is clean and transparent, you can go to the drain with confidence. Or order a purchase on the same Internet. I recently visited this clothing store - a week later I was able to brag to my friends about buying a TTDENIM jumper for 2 thousand rubles. At today's prices, that's something to brag about, isn't it? =)
How to leave a stock or second-hand store satisfied?
- Fighting spirit! You need to be in the right mood and full of strength! I have long noticed that shopping at large stock stores can quickly become exhausting... And in a fit of hatred for the whole world, you can hardly buy anything sensible.
- Create a checklist of orders . There is no need to go out and buy whatever you like. We form our own style, and don’t “pack”! Therefore, it is advisable to go strictly for a blue blouse or black shorts, and not for something that comes across. However, this does not exclude spontaneous purchases “outside the checklist”. You just need to determine the direction of thought =)
- Buy in the off season . Yes. This is hard. But only in the first year, then it’s much easier. The bottom line is that clothes are usually sent to waste at the end of the season. Accordingly, at the beginning of the season you will end up with leftovers from leftovers...
- Review everything you have ! You shouldn’t trust the merchandiser, because he/she may not know how much you want a blue polka dot dress!
- No "tomorrow" ! Don't put off buying a good thing until tomorrow. In stock, good goods go “at one time”, and within an hour this wonderful purple blouse will be gone. If you don’t have money with you, ask to put the item aside; this is usually accepted by the cashiers.
- Try to get to the moment of “delivery” - then the choice will be the most extensive. And not only in design, but also in size.
- Measure everything ! Please remember that designer clothing sizes may vary.
Experience hasn't told me anything else yet. Add in the comments, girls (and maybe the guys will join?!)!
People have many prejudices about second-hand clothes - from “I won’t wear someone’s cast-offs” to “They took these from the dead!” But practical people say that you can buy lightly worn (and sometimes completely new) clothes at second-hand stores, and at very low prices. For those who are tormented by doubts and do not know whether to believe stereotypes or still dare to buy, this article was written.
Where do thrift store clothes come from?
First, let's figure out where clothes come from in second-hand stores and stocks. Once upon a time in Europe they began to collect clothes for people affected by natural disasters or military conflicts. People gave away clothes that they were tired of, had been lying around in the closet, or had a small but unpleasant defect - a stain or a hole. The idea quickly caught on, and soon unused clothes and shoes began to be stored near houses in wealthy neighborhoods.
From there it was taken by special collectors. This is how second-hand clothing has turned into an entire industry - today, near megamalls and megamarkets in some European cities, there are huge containers where people bring unwanted clothes. Sometimes decent brand stores also give away goods if the fashion for it has already passed and it has not sold out even with huge discounts.
Sometimes you can find vintage and even branded items in thrift stores!
Then all collected items are disinfected, sorted and folded. The newest and best ones are packed by season (winter and summer clothes) or by purpose (men's sweaters, women's skirts), and the more worn ones are packed together, by weight. Then they are sent to all countries of the world. And you shouldn’t assume that only poor people use the services of second-hand stores.
Many pop singers, famous actors and presenters use the services of such stores. For example, Kylie Minogue and Lindsay Lohan have a positive attitude towards second-hand stores. They often buy interesting things there for their performances. Why not? After all, at a second-hand store you can cheaply buy clothes from famous companies: Diesel, Mexx, Camper, Tom Tailor, Marks&Spencer, Next and many others.
Pros of second-hand clothes
- Big savings. This is important when buying clothes for children who outgrow them very quickly. In a second-hand store you can find almost new, a couple of times worn clothes and shoes for kids. In such clothes, it’s not a pity to let your child run through puddles or draw: if he ruins them, you can go to a second-hand store again and buy him something new.
- You can often find toys in second-hand stores. Numerous Barbies, supermen, robocops and cool little animals will cost several times less than in a toy store.
- Very often in second-hand stores you can buy overalls, jackets and pants for men of working professions. Work clothes wear out quickly, so saving money won't hurt. It is also better to buy clothes for repairs and garden work second-hand - you don’t mind throwing them away as soon as they get very dirty or torn.
- Second-hand deals are an opportunity to save money for all ski and winter sports lovers. Ski suits can be bought here for 5-10 times cheaper than in a company store. Especially if you don’t go for a ride all the time, but once every 10 years.
- At a second-hand store you can buy original curtains, hand-embroidered tablecloths or beautiful creative napkins. Such products in a regular store will cost several times more.
It’s important to understand what clothes you can buy at thrift stores and what you can’t.
What you shouldn't buy at a second-hand store
- It is better not to buy underwear in second-hand stores - this is too intimate a part of the toilet. Linen should have only one owner.
- Shoes can only be bought if they are new or worn a couple of times. Each person’s feet are individually crooked and wear down shoes, and if during fitting it seems to you that everything is fine, then over time you will notice a couple of defects. Believe me, your feet will be very uncomfortable in someone else’s shoes.
- You should be extremely careful when purchasing bedding. It is unpleasant to sleep in someone else's bed, especially if the fabric does not allow it to be boiled down.
- There is no need to buy handbags, belts and other accessories secondhand, because they are what “make” your image. It's better to buy new ones.
Second hand rules
- Before sale, all clothes are treated with a special compound that destroys any infection. It is this that gives that unpleasant smell that is present in second-hand stores. Therefore, all the clothes you purchased there should be washed (especially children's clothes and toys). The inside of shoes should be wiped with alcohol.
- Carefully inspect all the things you are going to purchase. Sometimes oil or sweat stains are very faintly visible, but they do not wash off. Please remember that items purchased second-hand cannot be returned or exchanged.
- If your clothing has defects - holes, stains, missing zippers or buttons - immediately consider whether you can repair it yourself. If you go to a studio, complex repairs may cost more than the item itself.
- Buy things in your size and don't expect to lose weight while your trousers or skirt wait in your closet. They'll probably sit there for a couple of years and then you'll throw them away. If you are in doubt whether to buy or not, it’s better not to buy, because you don’t need this thing.
- Be prepared for the fact that it takes a lot of effort to rummage through mountains of clothing and find a unique item. But in a second-hand store you can always find trendy clothes and rare vintage items.
What is second hand? A store for the poor who are unable to buy new clothes or for the thrifty who count every ruble? Is the store for the smart ones who pretend that they dress exclusively in boutiques or for the smart ones who don’t see the point in spending big money even on a fashionable item? In fact, everyone goes to thrift stores: both those who have little money and those who are richer.
It used to be that second-hand stores were located in basements, nooks, and backyards. Nowadays, these are ordinary bright and large stores with a wide variety of goods for all tastes and sizes. But, nevertheless, rarely does anyone admit that they dress second-hand, and, having decided to run into such a store, they look around so that their acquaintances do not see.
In fact, “second-hand” has a centuries-old history. Don’t be surprised, but rather remember how royals, as a sign of preference and encouragement, gave things from their shoulders to distinguished subjects. Moreover, once upon a time among the English kings the highest sign of distinction for a loyal subject, and for him the highest honor, was to give him a hunting cloak. Moreover, by order of the king, this piece of clothing changed its owner every six months. Anyone who received such a gift from the hands of the king was considered his faithful support, his “second” right hand or “second hand”. Later, this expression migrated to America, where a unique tradition emerged: wealthy citizens donated used clothes for charity.
What is a modern second-hand store, what products are there, where do they come from, how are second-hand stores treated in other countries? After all, if you dispel persistent prejudices about these stores and try to take a sober look at the possibility of buying the things you really need in them, you will be guaranteed savings on your family budget.
The largest suppliers of second-hand clothing are England, Ireland, and Scotland. In these stores you can often find clothes from the USA, Canada and even Australia. Moreover, if you become a regular visitor to thrift stores, then purchasing a branded item, for example, from Armani or another famous couturier for $5, is quite possible. Agree that this is already a serious saving, which, moreover, will allow you to become the owner of a luxurious item.
“Second hand” in the West has long been a serious and profitable business, and there are entire factories for it. Items for sale through second-hand stores are collected from the population. They do this in two ways: either through charitable organizations that send out invitations to the population along with packaging for things, or special containers are placed right on the streets near houses where people put things they don’t need. In addition, used clothing is also collected in schools. Then all items are collected by special machines and taken for sorting and processing.
If we remember how many quite decent, but unnecessary, unsuitable, out-of-fashion, and simply boring things accumulate in our closets at home, how difficult it can be to get rid of them, because it’s a pity to throw them away, but how can we give them to someone? many people simply don't know. Therefore, one can fully appreciate the wisdom of organizing second-hand stores.
Under no circumstances should you be afraid that by buying this or that item that has already been worn by someone, you risk contracting some kind of disease. All items supplied to second-hand stores are brought to us from abroad, where they are necessarily disinfected: they are treated with 40% paraformalin for 165 minutes at a temperature of 59 degrees. After such processing, each batch of clothing must receive a sanitary and hygienic examination report, which indicates that this method meets the requirements of the Ministry of Health. So it’s much easier to get infected with scabies, shingles or other diseases on the subway or bus than in such a store. And the recommendation - be sure to wash something bought at a second-hand store - exists because paroformalin can cause an allergic reaction in the case of particularly sensitive skin.
Second-hand stores are not empty or closed due to a lack of customers. Both low-income and quite wealthy people come here. It is clear that the bulk are those with average or low income: pensioners, students, large families. In the “second-hand” store you can meet many young boys and girls who follow fashion, but do not want to overpay money for something that can be bought very inexpensively, and there is no need to save money or wait for an opportunity - the prices are such that you can buy what you like clothes for you right away.
Moreover, it is in the second-hand store that you can find real exclusives that you cannot buy even in the most advanced boutique. Where does it come from? Judge for yourself: many buyers experiment with their things, remake them, creating truly original compositions. But when the item gets tired or no longer fits, then it goes to second-hand.
Stock clothing stores differ from second-hand clothing stores in that they only sell new items left over from the sale of clothing collections in Europe. As a rule, these are well-known brands, which means the products are of good quality. In stock, prices for such things are 3-5 times lower than in boutiques. Moreover, even if you see “Made in China” on the tag, it will nevertheless be a factory item, not a homemade item, made with all the requirements of a fashion house.
Yes, you can find a small defect, for example, a stain, a torn button or dust on the fabric, but if you think about the difference in price, the profitability of such a purchase becomes obvious, especially since in “stock” there are all the rules that protect the consumer: an item of improper quality quality can be exchanged or returned.
When passing by a “second-hand” or “stock” store, take a look out of curiosity, and maybe you’ll get lucky!
What is second-hand: history of creation + 5 tips on how to get rid of the smell of things + is there any harm in second-hand clothes + 5 types of second-hand goods + the difference between stock and second-hand.
Recently, more and more people have begun to engage in activities that are brought from Europe or America.
They are inexpensive, and sometimes in a second-hand store you can find an item in excellent condition, and made of high-quality material.
So what is second hand in fact: helping the poor or established business?
The history of second hand clothing
The concept of what second-hand goods are appeared in ancient times in England.
Back then, kings very often gave part of their wardrobe to their subjects as a reward for good service and loyalty. The one who received such a gift was called “second hand,” which translated means “second hands.”
In those days it was considered humanitarian aid to the poor...
Time passed and everything changed. Second hand, as we are used to seeing it, began its development only in the 20th century.
In Europe, rich or middle-income people often gave their belongings to the poor. Gradually people began to think about how to make a business out of it.
As a result, there were dealers who began to collect or buy used items inexpensively, and then sell them at a minimum price.
Currently second hand is an established business structure.
In Europe, collection for second-hand goods occurs at special points. Now various accessories, toys, etc. go there. After things are collected, they are first of all disinfected.
Here is the scheme for delivering goods to Russia:
Many people give away new items that have minor defects or have been sitting in store remnants for a long time. Therefore, you can often find blouses or pants with a tag in second-hand stores.
The price will be much higher, but the purchase will be new.
What's that smell about second-hand clothes?
Anyone who has ever bought things in a second-hand store knows about the unpleasant smell, which, in addition, takes a very long time to destroy...
In fact, things smell like special disinfectants, and not necessarily formaldehyde.
These compounds completely kill all possible microbes, and most importantly, they are safe.
And here formaldehyde causes a lot of gossip, the substance is considered hazardous to health. In this regard, many people are wary of second-hand stores.
In fact, formaldehyde is neutralized using other chemicals after clothing has been treated. As a result, it leaves nothing behind except the smell.
Documents must be available.
Before second-hand goods cross the border and hit store shelves, they are checked for disinfectant concentration. If the indicator does not correspond to the norm and the entry in the document, the goods will not be allowed at the border and will not be allowed to be sold.
Tips on how to get rid of odor:
- Usually the smell goes away after 1-2 washes.
- Outerwear should be taken to dry cleaning.
- Clothing for small children should be washed and ironed on both sides.
- Fresh air removes odor well, especially in winter.
- In order not to take someone else's energy with someone else's thing, you need to soak the clothes in salt water before washing (if you believe in such beliefs).
Can second-hand clothes be harmful?
There are many versions about the dangers of used clothes.
Some experts insist that such things cannot actually cause any painful reactions. They even advise shopping for children only at thrift stores.
Many people are afraid to shop second-hand because of the risk of contracting a disease like scabies...
In fact, there have never been any documented cases of infection from such clothing. You are more likely to get a skin rash from a new product from the market. After all, it is there that they sell low-quality clothes that are dyed using various chemicals and can cause allergies.
Synthetics often cause rashes and allergies even in adults, let alone children. It takes at least 3-5 washes to get rid of the paint. Items from Europe have already been washed and disinfected.
You can get infected in a second-hand store, but the reason will not lie in the first owner. It is possible that such stores are visited by people with various viral diseases or skin problems.
Sellers cannot control clients. When a sick person tries on this or that thing, germs may remain on it, which can later pass on to you.
This situation can happen in the market, and even in a fashion boutique. Nobody here has insurance.
Advice: never try on things on your naked body. Immediately after purchase, you need to wash your new clothes well to save yourself from illness.
Experts' opinions on second hand can be found in this video:
Classification of things in seconds
Many people have already moved away from the stereotype that second-hand stores are a place for beggars.
Completely different social groups allow themselves to buy things from Europe, and there is nothing humiliating about it. On the contrary, you can often find exclusive fashion in second-hand stores.
In such a store it is possible to create a unique image, and for a minimal amount.
Things in second-hand stores are of the following types:
- Stock (new product, most often leftovers from stores).
- Extra Lux (almost new items).
- First grade (worn items, but without defects).
- Second grade (the product is practically unsuitable for buyers).
- Third grade (bought only for rags).
Stock and second hand: what are the differences?
Many people are confused about the concepts of “second-hand” and “stock”. Some say that they are one and the same thing, while others argue that the concepts are completely different.
Difference between stock and second hand:
| Stock | Second hand |
|---|---|
| Things are completely new. Often these are leftover goods from European stores. | The items are in most cases worn and all in a single copy. |
| Prices are quite high, sometimes equal to market prices. | The price is minimal and/or changes every day + there is often a flexible system of discounts. |
| Stockists sometimes buy sizes, so there is a chance to choose the right size. | No size range. |
| There is no disinfection in the drains because the product is new. | Unpleasant smell. |
| The pricing policy almost never changes. | Products are sometimes sold by weight. |
How to remain satisfied after a purchase?
7 tips to help you stay happy after shopping:
The right attitude.
Before shopping, you need to set yourself up correctly. To find something worthwhile in a pile of things, you need to spend a lot of time and effort.
Set aside a separate day for this.
The purchase will be completed much faster if you initially know what you are going for in second hand. If you decide to buy a blouse, then look only for blouses.
Moreover, now many stores divide goods into departments to make it easier for customers to choose.
Off-season purchases.
Usually clothes in Europe are given away only after the end of the season.
It turns out that jackets, for example, are better to buy in late spring or summer. After all, when the season comes, there will already be leftovers on the shelves.
You need to watch everything.
If you have time, look through literally the entire store. Sometimes there may be something worthwhile at the very bottom of the distant basket.
Don't delay your purchase.
If you find a great T-shirt at a thrift store, you need to buy it right away. The next day she will most likely be gone.
Find out when the new product is planned to be delivered.
A large assortment is only available on the day of delivery.
High-quality luxury items are sold out immediately; after 1-2 days they will be out of stock.
Everything needs to be measured.
Don't be lazy. Everything you like needs to be tried on.
Firstly, tailoring in Europe has its own size range, which differs from the Russian standard.
Secondly, the item on the body often looks radically better/worse than on the hanger.
Myths about second hand
Everyone knows what second hand is. But for some reason, many people mistakenly believe that only rags are sold there.
When we see a stylishly dressed person, we immediately think that the image was created in a cool company store.
For many, buying something in a boutique is unrealistic, because the price of a jacket or suit there can exceed the average monthly salary of ordinary Russians.
But you can dress stylishly at a thrift store! After all, this is where wealthy Europeans give away their wardrobes.
Now all social groups buy used goods from Europe:
Nevertheless, many are still afraid of purchasing something from someone else’s hands. After all, as soon as the second hand business began to develop, many myths appeared that scare away buyers to this day.
First myth: the product is contaminated
As we said above, clothes from Europe are disinfected before they hit the shelves of our stores.
Everything is first treated with hot steam and a special gas, after which it must be checked at the border with a special device.
Therefore, second-hand clothes cannot be contaminated until the rare occasion when the clothes are tried on by an infected person.
Second myth: second hand goods are humanitarian aid and should be given away for free.
All clothes from Europe or America are initially collected specifically for sale in the CIS countries. There are separate supplier bases for selling second-hand goods.
A separate story is about church parishioners who receive things from America and give them away for free.
Parishioners often resell them, and there is nothing criminal about it. These people just need money (usually for the needs of the church itself and disadvantaged people), so they are engaged in such small businesses.
However, you will not find such a product in second hand stores. Rather, this applies to classifieds sites on the Internet (for example, https://www.avito.ru/).
The third myth. Second hand means all worn out items
There are different types of second hand goods.
The clothes can be worn, but you can also find brand new pants or blouses.
People give things away for a variety of reasons, such as because they don't fit, they're out of fashion, or they're too small.
In stock, all the goods are completely new, and even with tags.
So should you be wary of second-hand items?
In this video you will learn all the nuances of buying used things!
The article gave a detailed answer to the fact that what is second hand. But whether to purchase such things for yourself or not is something everyone must decide for themselves.
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