Today I had a conversation that really stuck with me. I was chatting with the owner of one of my favorite local boutiques, and she shared just how challenging retail has become. Rising costs for inventory, utilities, rent, and staffing are squeezing her profits. She even admitted she often has to mark down items far below cost just to move them. I absolutely love this boutique, so immediately I go into problem solving and strategy mode.
This isn’t a unique story. Many small retailers are facing the same dilemma: How do you keep a brick-and-mortar store open in today’s economy, where overhead is high and foot traffic is unpredictable?
On my drive home, I started thinking about my own experience with Taylored Finds. I source intentionally and sell primarily online. Yes, I have a website, but like many small retailers, it doesn’t get consistent traffic yet. Building a following takes time. That’s what led me to use platforms like Poshmark, Depop, and eBay—places where buyers are already searching for what I offer.
And here’s the truth: Small boutiques (including myself) need to diversify their e-commerce strategies to survive and grow.
Why Diversify?
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce (2024), 61% of small retailers report that inflation and supply chain issues are cutting into profits. For boutiques, this means markdowns and stagnant inventory.
Online resale platforms offer a lifeline:
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Built-in traffic: Poshmark alone has 80+ million users
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No marketing budget required: You tap into existing search ecosystems
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Inventory recovery: Sell items that didn’t move in-store at a fair market price
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Customer discovery: Shoppers can discover and fall in love with your boutique brand
How to Get Started with Online Resale Platforms
Here’s a simple roadmap for boutiques looking to expand into platforms like Poshmark, Depop, or eBay:
1. Choose Your Platform
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Poshmark for fashion-forward finds and broader age appeal
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Depop for trend-driven, vintage, and Gen Z shoppers
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eBay for a more global audience and designer resale
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Whatnot if you’re open to livestream selling
Start with one platform. Use tools like Vendoo or List Perfectly to cross-list later.
2. Test With a Small Batch
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Pick 10–20 items that haven’t sold well in-store
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Focus on seasonal, trendy, or NWT pieces
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Ensure everything is in excellent or new condition
3. Smart Pricing
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NWT: 50–70% of original retail
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Gently used: 30–50%
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Check "sold" listings for comps
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Factor in fees (e.g. Poshmark takes 20% for sales over $15)
4. Presentation Matters
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Photograph in natural light with clean backgrounds
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Include close-ups and fabric detail
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Mention measurements, condition, and original retail price
5. Be Consistent
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List weekly, even in small batches
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Refresh or share listings frequently
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Use relevant keywords and hashtags
Closing Thoughts
Small boutique owners are resilient by nature. But the retail landscape has changed, and we need new tools to keep thriving. Resale platforms aren’t just for secondhand items—they can be an essential extension of your business model.
If you’ve been wondering how to make your inventory work harder for you or how to attract new customers without spending more on marketing, now’s the time to give these platforms a try.
You’re not just selling clothes. You’re building a brand.
Let Taylored Finds be part of that journey.
