SPLISH SPLASH READY - STYLISH RAIN BOOTS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY

Spring's almost here and you're probably dying to ditch those winter boots for something more refined. But, it's also "April showers" season. So, do you really want to risk ruining your brand new shoes in a downpour? No, and you don't have to! Rain boots don't have to be boring. They can be stylish and comfortable too. Let's check out some options that'll keep you dry and looking good.

For a high-fashion rain boot, consider Louis Vuitton's drops flat half rain boot. Its distinctive shiny gray, mini monogram pattern, and waterproof rubber construction make it a standout choice. Notably, Louis Vuitton emphasizes its watertight design, achieved through a single-mold construction, as the website states: "To ensure it is completely watertight, the boot is not assembled, but made from a single mold." Price: $790 Link: https://tinyurl.com/yfrz78bh

Virgil Abloh, the founder of the luxury streetwear brand Off-White passed away in 2021and a new creative director, one of Abloh’s close collaborators, Ib Kamara was installed. In 2024 LVMH sold its stake in the brand. This change has raised questions about the brand's relevance. However, for now it continues to design. During Fashion Week in March 2025 it presented its ready-to-wear collection in Paris.

These boots are named the reboot mid-calf rain boots. And in case you want to wear them on sunny days, once you read the message, you won't and will save them for rainy days! Price: $495 Link: https://tinyurl.com/448y9x2t

I discovered FRĒDA SALVADOR, a California based company about eight years ago when I bought a pair of leather booties. They looked substantial, yet felt light on my feet. This comfort is attributable to the brand's high-quality materials and craftsmanship. In addition to footwear the Company now deigns bags and belts. SALVADOR is also focused on the transparency of the raw materials, with its website stating: "We are proud to say that the majority of our leathers are sourced from Leather Working Group Certified Tanneries, an organization that audits for environmental and sustainable qualities."

This cream color rain and shine boot, named Brooke is one of FRĒDA SALVADOR'S icons and is made of 100% Italian leather that is water-resistant. It is also available in six other shades.Price: $495 Link: https://tinyurl.com/4j3ww6vp

Looking for a unique and sustainable rain boot option? Consider exploring luxury resellers. After browsing through a variety of platforms, it's clear the possibilities are vast. For example, FASHIONPHILE has these white Gucci, size 7 interlocking G ankle booties made of rubber. These are in "Giftable" condition, the best condition on FASHIONPHILE'S scale. Price: $450 Link: https://tinyurl.com/bddty4ck

I also found these booties, in the same size and color on other resale platforms. A few examples: Vestiaire Collective, New With Tags (NWT) for $616, which includes the Price: $492.38 and the Buyer's Fee: $123.62. eBay has a pair, "unused and unworn" for $399.99, and a seller's $5 coupon, bringing the price to $394.99. These booties are also available on resale platforms in black with a white G logo and pink with a blue G logo. Be sure to compare prices across platforms and carefully examine any additional fees, as they can significantly impact the final cost.

Valentino's Rockstud collection is one of its most popular and iconic shoe designs. Characterized by its distinctive studded embellishments, the collection offers a diverse range of styles, from classic pointed toe heels to sandals. And yes, there's even a Rockstud rain boot, bringing signature Valentino style to rainy days, and I've found them, in a size 7 on a number of resale sites.

The RealReal has a pair listed in Very Good Condition, which is the third best of six condition categories. Price: $220, reduced 20% from $275.Link: https://tinyurl.com/3acbsjua

ThredUp lists a pair for $220.99, showcasing a retail price of $980 - marked down with a strikethrough, indicating a 77% discount off the estimated retail. On the plus side, ThredUp clarifies their "estimated retail" definition:"The strikethrough price shown next to any listed item represents the estimated original retail price of a comparable item of the same quality, construction, and material offered elsewhere in new condition."

However, a significant drawback is the boot's condition; it's categorized as a "Flawed Gem," ThredUp's lowest condition tier, meaning, "This item has visible flaws that may require repair but still has life left in it. It may also be from a best-selling brand and eligible for resale due to high demand."

The discovery of two pairs with nearly identical prices (differing by just $1.00!) underscores the importance of thorough research. While the boots on The RealReal appear to be in better condition, a definitive assessment is impossible without closer inspection. Therefore, meticulous review of photos, detailed descriptions, and proactive questioning are essential before purchasing.

While rainy days might present inconveniences, being prepared with a fashionable pair of rain boots—whether from the ones listed above, or one you discover yourself ensures you can stylishly splish-splash your way through any gloomy day.

Full Disclosure: The content in this post is based on my personal opinions and experiences. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. I have not received any compensation for writing this post. It is possible the links no longer direct the reader to the boots shown as they could no longer be available. The image of the yellow umbrella was generated by Gemini AI Pro.

5 STYLISH SPRING SHOES TO LACE UP YOUR LOOK

Goodbye, winter booties and boots. Hello, Spring and fresh footwear! This is a great time to incorporate some current shoe trends and pops of color into your shoe wardrobe. One trend is some type of lace up feature, either with a flat shoe, or a flat ballet style shoe.

The first on the list is from the the Danish brand Ganni known for inclusivity, sustainability and don't forget its use of the leopard print! This is the lace-up ballerina. The vibrant red, which Ganni calls "Racing Red" will look great with almost anything you decide to wear! But, if you'd rather "tone it down," these shoes are also available in other colors such as black and olive. The composition is vegan and recycled polyester. Price: $495

Link: https://tinyurl.com/yeyjkrpu

Totême, the Swedish brand founded in 2014 known for its minimalist clean lines and neutral colors creates clothing, bags, shoes, and accessories.

This shoe, the lace-up eyelet-embellished suede ballet flat is an example of Totême's simplicity. In addition to the on trend lace up feature, the other striking elements are: (1) The toe, which is a square-off pointy toe. (2) The eyelets along the vamp. It is composed of soft suede. Price: $660

Link: https://tinyurl.com/48uje3du

Shown here in back, it is also available in a beige / sand color at retailers including Mytheresa, FWRD and SSENSE.

A budget friendly option, as well a more edgier alternative is this Steve Madden style called Galanti. With a pointed toe, metal embellishments and a sling-back, you've got lots of style here! Steve Madden's website states this style is exclusive to the Company.

This shoe reminds me of the Graya style from last year, shown here on the right in white patent. This year's update, shown on the left is bone patent. (man made composition)

Price: $109.95 Link: https://tinyurl.com/2wh9zsew It is also available in black.

Chloé has a gorgeous shoe, crafted from napa lambskin. This shoe, called the Ghillies ballerinas, a lace up has gold-tone hardware, an open heel, and ankle wrap ties. These details provide a versatile shoe, that can be worn for many occasions.

On the website, the description of the shoe includes a section on traceability, noting the stitching, finishing and manufacturing were completed in Italy.

Showing its environmental commitment, it also states: "To make this product Chloé worked with Leather Working Group (LWG) certified leather manufacturers. LWG certifies tanneries based on their water and energy usage, management of chemicals, solid waste, and wastewater." Price: $890 Link: https://tinyurl.com/3hxrmdjz

If an ankle wrap tie lace up with a full back is what you are looking for, this Alexander Wang style, called the Vyolette flat has you covered. Made of semi shine sheep leather, it has silver stud detailing and a round toe. They look comfortable!

$595 Link: https://tinyurl.com/yc7rh8hk

I hope these shoes have gotten you in the mood for Spring, as they have me! On a cautious note though we might be going back to boots - - rain boots as it is almost April, and as the saying goes: "April showers bring May flowers."

Full Disclosure: The content in this post is based on my personal opinions and experiences. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. I have not received any compensation for writing this post. It is possible the links no longer direct the reader to the shoes shown as they could no longer be available.

Can You Return a Pre-Loved Luxury Handbag After Unboxing It?

Looking at luxury resale websites and visiting stores selling pre-loved luxury handbags can indeed be an enjoyable experience. You might browse, click, and buy a bag that feels perfect in that moment. Or while browsing in a store, you come across an unexpected find and immediately feel "it is meant to be mine."

However, there is a chance once you unbox the bag and look at it, you could decide I'm not in love with it, so I'll return it. Warning: Not so fast! Luxury resellers often have very strict, or even non-existent, return policies. Some have a very short return window and some resellers might only offer a store credit.

Resellers should be transparent about their return policies, but sometimes this is not the case. When making a purchase in-store, check for posted policies or ask if they align with the company's online information. It's worth noting that in a few instances I've noticed discrepancies between different sections on a retailer's website discussing returns. So verifying the details with the seller before finalizing your purchase is always recommended. Below are highlights of handbag return policies. Other categories they might sell, such as fine jewelry, watches and clothing might have different return policies, so be sure to review those as well if you decide to purchase an item in these categories.

Key Aspects of Return Policies to Review

Bags That Could be Returned

While a seller might have a policy that is considered generous, it might not cover all bags sold. For example, it might exclude certain brands and those bags that are reduced by a certain percentage.

Acceptable Reasons to Return

My research has shown the majority of sellers enforce a "final sale" return policy, which typically eliminates returns for buyer's remorse or changed minds. While this is common practice, some resellers may have more flexible policies.

Despite claims of "final sale" sellers may offer returns for items deemed "not as described." Since this term is inherently subjective, it leaves buyers vulnerable to differing interpretations. I see two ways to interpret "not as described."

(1) It could be the "condition" of the bag. For instance, though a bag is described having scratches on the hardware, a seller might also state the bag is in excellent condition. A buyer might read just the condition is excellent and not read the full description, and then could assume excellent means "almost new" or "never worn." So, be sure to read the entire description and review all the photos.

(2) Defects like broken zippers or buckles can be a reason for return. While it's not a widespread problem, it's certainly possible.

Authenticity Concerns and Returning

Concerns about a bag's authenticity may arise after purchase. However, mere suspicion is probably not a sufficient basis for a return or store credit. For a review of how some resellers address authenticity concerns, please refer to a previous post: "Is it Possible to Return a Pre-loved Luxury Bag if You Suspect it is not Authentic?" Link: https://www.pamelatuckersays.com/post/is-it-possible-to-return-a-pre-loved-luxury-bag-if-you-suspect-it-is-not-authentic

Time Frame for Returning

Carefully review the return time frame. Policies typically specify a period, such as "returns must be made within 7 days of receipt." Be aware that some policies may calculate the time frame from the shipping date or date purchased in store. If you anticipate being unavailable during the return window, it's advisable to reconsider your purchase!

Follow the Process to Complete the Return

Once it seems you can move along with a return, note that resellers list steps to follow to ensure the bag is safely and promptly returned to the reseller and that a refund could be processed.

Also review how returns are made. For example if a bag is purchased online, understand if it could be returned to the reseller's store which might be easier for you, or if the bag may only be returned by shipping it to a processing center.

Even after initiating a return is approved, the reseller's inspection upon receipt may result in the return being denied. Therefore, you are not fully assured of a refund until it is received.

Costs Related to Returning

Two main costs should be considered when completing a return: (1) Shipping (2) Restocking fees.

Return Shipping Costs

Return shipping costs vary significantly, ranging from free to nominal fees, such as $15, to substantial charges of $75 or more. Some resellers offer complimentary return shipping and may refund the original shipping cost. Others may not refund the initial shipping fee and require buyers to arrange and pay for their own return shipping, potentially incurring additional risk. Even experienced buyers should review the current return shipping policies, as they can change.

Restocking Fees

Resellers might also assess a restocking fee for returns. These are typically targeted to those who return a high percentage of bags over a certain time period, or return purchases over a certain dollar amount.

Refund or Store Credit for the Return

Once your return has reached the destination, it takes at least a few days to review and could then take up to a few weeks or so to receive a refund or a store credit. To reiterate, resellers have distinct return policies and deciding to return and receive a full refund, or store credit or exchange one bag for another is not simple.

The Reseller Might Sell on Different Platforms

Resellers sometimes list the same or similar bags on multiple platforms, each with distinct return policies.

For a review of resellers selling on multiple platforms, please refer to a previous post: "Tips for Navigating the Secondhand Luxury Handbag Market" Link: https://www.pamelatuckersays.com/post/buying-a-secondhand-luxury-handbag

If you are comfortable it's the same bag across platforms, you might find a lower price with a "final sale" policy on one, and a higher price with a more lenient return policy on another. This presents a crucial decision! Consider additional factors, such as shipping costs and delivery times, before making your purchase.

Different Categories of Sellers

Resale platforms could have different categories of sellers, such as individual sellers and another category that includes professional sellers and each category could have different return policies. Be sure to identify the seller type with whom you are shopping on each platform.

Highlights of Several Resellers' Return Policies

The following points highlight the diversity of resellers' return policies, ranging from lenient to strictly "no returns." As with all luxury resale transactions, confirm the specific return policy in writing prior to purchase.

Linda's Stuff

Started in 2000 by Linda Lightman, Linda's Stuff has grown into a $25 million business. It sells a range of clothes and accessories and pre-loved luxury bags including Hermès, Chanel and Louis Vuitton, among others. It also sells pre-loved bags that are not luxury brands, such as Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs and even lower priced brands.

In addition to free shipping on all domestic sales, Linda's Stuff permits returns within 30 days of the date of the package was received. Note that. Linda's Stuff does not pay for the returns and it strongly advises that shipping include tracking information. An exception for Linda's Stuff to pay for the return postage is if the item being returned is because it was materially “not as described” or damaged. It is recommended being in touch with the reseller to discuss the issue before returning the item.

Linda's Stuff on eBay

Linda’s Stuff has an Ebay Store. Every day, Monday through Friday, starting at 12 noon EST, Linda and her staff host a live shopping show that runs for about an hour. Many of the items shown are luxury brands, and some are not. Linda is personable, upbeat, and enthusiastic, and I enjoy her and her colleagues' presentation. According to the information on eBay, Linda's Stuff is "one of the largest sellers of fashion apparel & accessories on eBay."

The return policy on the eBay store is the same when shopping on the Linda's Stuff website. The item is to be returned within 30 days of the delivery of the package. And if the item being returned is because it s materially “not as described” or damaged, Linda's Stuff will pay for the return.

HEWI (Hardly Ever Worn It)

HEWI, based in London and ships throughout the world has been in business since 2012. In February 2024 it joined Amazon's Luxury Stores in Europe, making it the first time pre-owned luxury items were available on Amazon in the UK.

HEWI has three types of resellers, and each has its own return policy.

Private Sellers

Some private sellers include the option to return the item though they are not obligated to do so. In each listing the seller’s return policy is included. The buyer has 14 days after the delivery date to request a return, but as noted above the seller is not obliged to agree to the return. .

On the helpful side though, HEWI permits buyers to relist the item if the seller does not accept the return. For the first 28 days of the listing, HEWI will reduce the commission on the item to 10%. If the item has not sold in the first 28 days, the commission will increase to the usual amount.

If the buyer receives an item that was not as described in the listing, there is a process for HEWI customer care to become involved and a process is to be followed.

Professional Sellers

Professional sellers are obligated to accept returns. Though this seems easy enough because returns are permitted, the buyer should ask the seller questions to avoid having to go through the return process.

The buyer has 14 days after the delivery date to request a return and send the item back. The buyer is responsible for paying for the return shipping, unless HEWI customer care determines the item is not as described in the listing.

Items Managed by HEWI

An items that has the HEWI logo on the listing is one that is managed by HEWI. These items may be returned up to 14 days after the item was delivered. Shipping costs will not be refunded unless the item is not as described.

HEWI places the burden on the buyer to decide which shipper is used for the return. Its website states: "Make sure to package the item securely to minimise the risk of damage during transit.It is the buyer's sole responsibility to ensure that the item is safely returned to the seller. We encourage the use of tracked and insured delivery services for peace of mind."

Vestiaire Collective

Vestiaire Collective, a peer-to-peer reseller, meaning it does not hold inventory has two types of resellers: (1) Individual Sellers (2) Professional sellers. Professional Sellers must complete an application and these sellers are reviewed by Vestiaire Collective.

Individual Sellers

Items purchased from Individual Sellers are not eligible for returns. However, Vestiaire Collective is concerned if the item received is not as described by the seller or if the buyer has doubts about the authenticity. In these cases the buyer could seek help from the Help Center.

While returns are not allowed, Vestiaire Collective provides an option for the buyer to find some relief. It permits the item to be relisted free of charge. It strongly suggests the buyer to do this, with the website stating: "Relisting an item takes less than a minute." Relisting is free of charge and the relisiting will result in keeping 100% of the earnings. However, if the relisting is after 72 hours but within 14 days of receiving the order, per the webiste:"there is a small processing fee for relisting your item. This fee is lower than our usual Selling Fee."

Professional Sellers

The key difference with buying from a Professional Seller is that the item can be returned within 14 days for a full refund. It also permits the item to be relisted free of charge for up to 72 hours after receiving it. There is no mention on the website if the same option of relisting is after 72 hours but within 14 days of receiving the order is permitted.

If the item received is not as described by the seller or if have doubts about the authenticity, the buyer could seek help from the Help Center.

What Goes Around Comes Around (WGACA)

WGACA has been in the news recently. In 2024 it started selling on the Amazon Luxury Store in the USA. WAGCA also sells its bags through a partnership with Dillard's. Products are available only in Dillard's stores. It is possible WGACA is a wholesaler to other entities, though I haven't located them.

In 2018 Chanel filed a complaint against What Goes Around Comes Around (WGACA) alleging that the company was selling counterfeit Chanel products and implying a marketing association with Chanel. The case went to trial in January 2024 in a New York Federal Court.

Briefly, in February 2025 the jury ruled in favor of Chanel on all four counts: (1) trademark infringement (2) false association (3) unfair competition (4) false advertising. The jury awarded Chanel $4 million in statutory damages. In March 2024 Chanel sought a permanent injunction to prevent WGACA from using Chanel trademarks to advertise unauthorized products and to stop selling altered Chanel items. As of the end of February 2024, the Court imposed a permanent injunction that restrict's WGACA use of Chanel trademarks and requires clear disclaimers on all Chanel branded items sold by WGACA. Furthermore, WGACA must disgorge and disgorgement of $12,739 in profits from the sale of unauthorized Chanel branded handbags and 779 counter support items and pay $4 million in statutory damages. From online information, WGACA will appeal these rulings

WGACA has a detailed return policy. To begin with, items purchased through the wholesale partners are final sale. For bags purchased directly from WGACA that are marked final sale or purchased with a discount of 30% or more they are not eligible for a return.

Within 7 days of receiving the package the buyer is to email customer care to request a Return Authorization. WGACA will respond within 2 business days. Once the request is reviewed, an email will be sent, along with return instructions and a return shipping label. This shipping label must be used to return the package. and it must be shipped back within 10 days of receiving the return shipping label. Adding urgency is that the return label will expire after 3 days and will no longer be eligible for use!

Three other important features about WGACA'S return policy include:

(1) Returns are free of charge; however, the original shipping fees are non-refundable.

(2) Exchanges are not allowed.

(3) Items purchased online cannot be returned to our store locations.

It could take 2-3 business days to process returns and another 5-7 days for the refund to be completed.

The RealReal

The RealReal gives the buyer an option to buy a Return Guarantee. With Return Guarantee the buyer can return final sale items within 7 days after delivery. It is through a partner company XCover. The returned items are shipped directly to XCover. Caution here as not all brands are permitted to purchase the Return Guarantee and not all bags within the same brand are covered.

The fee is about 10% of the item's price, though it could be more or less. Below are two examples of the cost of the Return Guarantee Fee.

• Fendi Sequins Baguette 2024. Price: $4595 and Return Guarantee fee is $429.44, or 9.3% of the price.

• Chanel Top Handle Vanity Case w/ Chain. Price $3,975 and Return Guarantee fee is $363.71, or 9.2% of the price.

At first glance, the Return Guarantee seems buyer-friendly, allowing returns for reasons such as changing your mind, disliking the item, or fit discrepancies.

However, beyond the notably high fee, potential drawbacks include a limited return window – within 7 days of delivery – and the non refundability of the original shipping.

Rebag

Rebag made headlines in January 2025 when it announced it was going to be selling luxury handbags and other luxury items on Walmart's Marketplace. Prior to that announcement, Rebag had been selling on other platforms, including thredUP, eBay, and Bloomingdale's.

Note Rebag might list the same bag on one or more of these platforms, yet the cost of the bag differs as well as the return policies among the platforms. Keep in mind it is not always easy to identify if the bag across multiple platforms is the same bag. The return policies are highlighted below. Again, before buying, be sure to understand and ask questions about the return policies for each platform.

Rebag Website

For bags sold on the Rebag platform, it permits U.S. returns for a full refund (excluding Outlet items) if the return is requested online through the buyer’s Rebag.com account within 7 days of in-store purchase or delivery of an online order (as proven by the tracking number).

Initial shipping costs are nonrefundable. There are not any return fees for Rebag+ members. A return fee per item does apply for all others, with return fees ranging from $25 for items up to $999 increasing to $100 fee for items $8,000 and over. It is also important to note that those buyers with return rates greater than 30% in a 12 month period, return fees will be doubled and additional restrictions, including the right to purchase, will be implemented.

Rebag Selling on thredUP Website

The return policy states: "No returns on this item because it is final sale" Note though when I reached out to thredUP customer support through a chat, I was told if I wanted to return a Rebag item I should reach out directly to Rebag. Due to the conflicting information, I'd reach out to both parties for written clarification of the return policy.

Rebag Store on eBay

Per the eBay website, "Seller does not accept returns. Refer to eBay return policy for more details." Yet, when clicking on the link, it brings you to a page that could lead you to believe returns are possible. The content on the top of the landing page states: "Condition of returned items policy." Before clicking on "Buy It Now" I'd be in touch with eBay and Rebag to get a written confirmation of the return policy.

Rebag Selling on Bloomingdale's Website

The return policy for Rebag items purchased on Bloomingdales.com (This policy likely extends to Rebag boutiques in Bloomingdale's.) is vague, as there are few specifics. Bloomingdales.com states: "All refunds are up to the discretion of the seller. Merchandise must be returned with all original vendor tags intact and must be in saleable condition." Leaving it up to the discretion of the seller is not helpful guidance. This lack of clarity creates significant uncertainty for buyers.

Of note is the website is clear that all returns are to be sent directly to the third-party seller and not be returned to a Bloomingdale's store.

Rebag Selling on Walmart's Marketplace

There is minimal information about the return policy covering a bag purchased from Rebag on the Walmart Marketplace. The website indicates: "Return within: 14 days after item is delivered." That appears to be clear. However, it then states: "To initiate a return or to get information about any additional policies that may apply, contact the seller." This statement does not include what conditions need to be met in order to return the bag. This lack of clarity leaves buyers with significant uncertainty and potential risk when purchasing a potentially high-value bag.

So, is it possible to return a pre-loved luxury bag after unboxing it?

The answer is likely no, though there might be exceptions. Purchasing a pre-loved luxury bag involves both emotional appeal and, for some, practical considerations. It’s important to keep your emotions in check during the purchase and take the necessary steps to avoid disappointment if the bag turns out to be non-returnable.

Full Disclosure: The content in my blog is based on my personal opinions and experiences. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Specific research for this post was conducted between March 6, 2025 and March 11, 2025. This is not a comprehensive review describing all aspects of each company's return policies and aspects of the policies might have been updated since this post was published. All opinions are my own, and I have not received any compensation for writing this post. The images not related to Rebag in post were generated by Gemini AI Pro.