Where to Source Streetwear to Resell for Profit

Unlocking the Secrets to Sourcing Profitable Streetwear

Streetwear reselling is a booming market, driven by the allure of hyped brands like Supreme and Palace, as well as the nostalgia of vintage Nike and Stüssy. Whether you're a seasoned reseller or a newcomer, knowing where to source your items can make or break your success. This guide dives into some of the most promising channels to find streetwear pieces that can yield impressive profits.

1. Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are a classic starting point for any reseller. While the competition can be fierce, the rewards are worth it if you know what to look for.

• Typical Cost: $5-$20 per piece
• Expected Condition: Mixed; from gently used to vintage gems
• Pros: Low cost, possibility of rare finds
• Cons: Time-consuming, hit-or-miss inventory
• Profit Margin: 2x-10x, depending on rarity and condition

2. Estate Sales

Often overlooked, estate sales can be treasure troves for vintage streetwear, especially if the previous owner had a keen fashion sense.

• Typical Cost: $10-$50 per piece
• Expected Condition: Often better than thrift stores
• Pros: Potential for high-value finds
• Cons: Limited to certain times and areas
• Profit Margin: 3x-8x, particularly for vintage pieces

3. Garage and Car Boot Sales

These are local and informal but can yield surprising finds if you're early and know what to look for.

• Typical Cost: $1-$10 per piece
• Expected Condition: Varies widely
• Pros: Very low cost, direct negotiation
• Cons: Inconsistent availability, early bird advantage needed
• Profit Margin: 5x-15x, especially if you snag a rare item

4. Online Liquidation and Wholesale

Buying liquidation lots or wholesale streetwear can be lucrative if you have some capital to invest.

• Typical Cost: $3-$30 per piece
• Expected Condition: Often new with tags
• Pros: Bulk purchasing, potential for high volume sales
• Cons: Requires upfront investment, risk of unsold inventory
• Profit Margin: 2x-5x, depending on brand and trend timing

5. Clearance Sections of Retailers

Retailers often clear out end-of-season stock at deep discounts, providing perfect sourcing opportunities.

• Typical Cost: $10-$50 per piece
• Expected Condition: New
• Pros: Guaranteed authenticity, low competition
• Cons: Limited to seasonal changes
• Profit Margin: 1.5x-3x

6. Facebook BST Groups

Buy/Sell/Trade groups for specific streetwear brands can be goldmines for sourcing authentic pieces.

• Typical Cost: $20-$200 per piece
• Expected Condition: Typically good, user-vetted
• Pros: Community vetted, direct negotiation
• Cons: Requires negotiation skills, potential for scams
• Profit Margin: 2x-4x

7. Depop and Grailed for Underpriced Listings

Some sellers underestimate the value of their items. Setting alerts for brands can help snag bargains.

• Typical Cost: $15-$100 per piece
• Expected Condition: Usually well-described
• Pros: Direct access to sellers, ability to negotiate
• Cons: Requires patience and quick action
• Profit Margin: 2x-3x, occasionally more

8. Japanese Vintage Shops (Online)

Rakuten and Yahoo Japan Auctions are treasure troves for pristine vintage pieces, often priced lower than Western markets.

• Typical Cost: $50-$300 per piece
• Expected Condition: Excellent, well-preserved
• Pros: Rare finds, high demand globally
• Cons: Language barrier, import fees
• Profit Margin: 3x-6x, especially for rare brands

What to Look For

When sourcing streetwear, focus on brands like Supreme, Palace, Stüssy, Carhartt WIP, Off-White, and Nike. Look for unique collaborations, limited edition pieces, and iconic logos. Vintage items, especially those from the 90s, can command high prices if in good condition.

Red Flags

Beware of fakes, particularly for popular brands like Supreme. Learn to authenticate by checking stitching, tag fonts, and wash care labels. Avoid items with irreparable damage, like severe yellowing or holes in non-vintage items.

Seasonal Sourcing Tips

Streetwear tends to be cheaper during off-seasons, like summer for winter clothing. Conversely, it's most expensive during or just before the season it’s needed. Plan your sourcing accordingly to maximize margins.

Startup Budget

You can start sourcing streetwear with as little as $100, focusing on low-cost channels like thrift stores and garage sales. As you grow, reinvest profits into more costly sources like wholesale lots or Japanese vintage.

Maximize Profits with ListingGenie

Writing effective listings is crucial for profitability. ListingGenie can help craft engaging, optimized listings to catch a buyer's eye and maximize your returns.

FAQs

1. How can I tell if a streetwear item is authentic? Learn to authenticate by studying tag fonts, stitching quality, and comparing with known authentic pieces.
2. Which brands are most profitable to resell? Supreme, Palace, and vintage Nike are typically in high demand and command good resale prices.
3. What condition issues should I avoid? Avoid severe yellowing, irreparable tears, and unfixable stains unless the item is a rare vintage piece.
4. Is it better to sell online or in-person? Online platforms like Vinted and Grailed offer wider reach and often yield higher prices due to larger audiences.