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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
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
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
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
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
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.

  • Writer: Pamela Tucker
    Pamela Tucker
  • Mar 4
  • 8 min read

Updated: Mar 5


Luxury Resellers and Loyalty Programs

When shopping on a luxury resale platform, it can be thrilling finding exactly what you are looking for, and at a great price or stumbling upon a unique item, whether it's a handbag, a small leather good, a piece of jewelry, or a watch. While loyalty programs can be a bonus, I believe they're rarely the primary reason shoppers choose a particular resale platform. However, some shoppers could prioritize platforms with loyalty programs.

I've noticed that loyalty programs are relatively uncommon in the luxury resale market, and those that exist are often quite unique.


Four Luxury Resellers

Below are four luxury resale rewards programs, each with its own distinct characteristics. They are not easily comparable, and due to the complexity of some, it is recommended that ample time be spent understanding them. And, with all things luxury resale, contacting the reseller with your questions is also recommended. Summary points about each program are below, and further details follow.


  1. myGemma This program is straightforward and easy to understand.


  1. The RealReal This program, for both consignors and buyers is a bit complex and I believe focuses more on the consignor, with benefits that vary between tiers of consignors.


  1. Rebag This loyalty program is so intricate that I believe "back of the envelope" calculations are needed to understand it, and it also requires members to pay a fee. On the bright side, a partner-awarded membership benefit listed below does not require a fee.


  1. Fashionphile Rather than having a rewards program, the unique aspect is Fashionphile shoppers are rewarded for being enrolled in other loyalty programs and are rewarded when shopping at Fashionphile.


Easy to Understand and to Use

myGemma's Rewards Program is thoroughly described on its website. It is straightforward, outlining how points are earned and how they can be used. There is minimal "fine print" so that leads to a transparent and rewarding loyalty program!


myGemma's loyalty program is free. The table below shows how points are earned.

Action Required by Member

Points Earned

Signing Up

500 points

Purchasing

1 point per $1

Selling

1 point per $1

Follow Page

50 points

Follow on Instagram

50 points

Follow on Facebook

50 points

Refer a Friend

2,000 points

Converting points to benefits is simple. Points can be redeemed towards future purchases with myGemma.


Note myGemma's Fine Print!

  • You need to be logged into your myGemma account when purchasing, otherwise points will not be rewarded.

  • Points are not earned when a discount code is applied at checkout.

  • Points will expire after 2 years of inactivity. Inactivity includes not interacting with the program such as placing an order or redeeming points.


Intricate Tiers: Requires Time to Understand

Some might not consider The RealReal's loyalty program, RealReal Rewards, to be a typical rewards program in that you consistently earn a set number of points that can be used to lower the cost of buying an item. Rather, The RealReal focuses on building up volumes, encouraging sellers (consignors) and buyers to return to the platform. This allows members to advance to different tier levels, each with varying benefits.


The program, while not deceptive, requires careful review due to its detailed structure and varying tier benefits. Notably, during my review of The RealReal's website, I didn't easily find a distinct tab or section dedicated to the Rewards program. To ensure I understood the details, I contacted customer support for further clarification, and I suggest you do the same. Support provided information via email and links and I've bookmarked the links for quick reference.


I believe the focus is more on the consignors, and much less on buyers. One reason might be that having the inventory to sell is key for this market, and therefore the Rewards program is keenly focused on the consignor. However, buyers are rewarded with monthly "Shop More, Earn More" events where shoppers can earn credits when they make purchases. The RealReal rewards loyalty, but it is more geared toward the supply side of its business.


Consignor The first element is the commission percentage. Keep in mind, depending on the product category, the commission rate varies. As this table shows, for example a handbag that sells for $5,000 will earn a 76% commission rate, while a watch that sells for $5,000 will earn a 81% commission rate.


And interestingly, while branded fine jewelry has six different tiers, with commission rates ranging from 20% for items selling up to $99 and 66% for items that sold for between $300 - $749, the highest tier for branded fine jewelry is $750 and the commission rate is 71%.

Category

Selling Price

Commission Rate

Payout

Handbag

$5,000 - $7,499

76

$3,800 - $5,699

Handbag

$1,500 - $4,999

71

$1,065 - $3,549

Watches

$5,000 - $7,499

81

$4,040 - $6,074

Watches

$2,000 - $4,999

76

$1,520 - $3,7979

Branded Fine Jewelry

$750 +

71

$532+

Payouts are required to place the consignor in a one of four category levels shown below, which in turn provides the Commission Incentive %, a nice bonus.

Category

Trendsetter

Influencer

Tastematers

VIP

Consignor's Net Sales

Under $1,499

$1,500 - $4,999

$5,000 - $9,999

$10,000 +

Commission Incentive %

0

+1%

+2%

+3%

It looks like the key to The RealReal Rewards concerns the commission incentives. Otherwise, across the categories with the exception of two things, the rewards are the same, such as a $25 birthday reward and in-home appointments. The VIP category has the added benefits of (1) Complimentary First Look Subscription worth $144 and a (2) $100 welcome credit. In addition to the reaching a higher commission incentive outlined above, consignors also have some monthly promotions.


There are also monthly consignment promotions and they could differ each month. For example, in February 2025, these are two of the several promotions offered to consignors:

  • Earn $100 when you consign any item with a list price of $1,500+

  • Earn $200 when you consign 20+ items with a list price of $150+ each

Credits for the promotion would be emailed on March 14, 2025.

I believe consigning 20+ items with a list price of $150+ could be a high bar for many consignors to reach.


Note: While reviewing The RealReal's Rewards Program, I noticed a section that needs to be updated. While probably it is not confusing, it would be nice seeing an up to date section. It currently states: "*In addition to Luxury Managers who assist consignors with selling, on 11/1 we will begin moving all consignors to dedicated Consignment Concierges to support them during and after their consignment, providing a holistic support experience. "We anticipate all consignors to be serviced under this model by early 2023." Since it is March 2025, this note could probably be removed, or if there are updates they should be listed.


Buyers: For buyers, there is not a program similar for the consignor outlined above. The RealReal usually has a monthly promotion called the "Shop More, Earn More." Credits are earned for purchases made under a particular bracket. For example, for a few days in February 2025, the following was offered to buyers:

  • Earn $40 Credit When You Spend $250+

  • Earn $80 Credit When You Spend $500+

  • Earn $200 Credit When You Spend $1250+

  • Earn $500 Credit When You Spend $2500+

Credits for the promotion would be issued on March 13, 2025.


Fees, Intricacies and an Interesting Partner Benefit

Rebag updated its loyalty program in April 2024 replacing its previous Rebag Rewards program with a a prepay membership program called Rebag+.


Rebag has been in the news for its partnerships with two retailers. In August 2024 it became a partner with Bloomingdale's selling on Bloomingdales.com. Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/ms2huz8h and in boutiques in five Bloomingdale's stores. In January 2025 Rebag and Walmart announced a partnership, whereby Rebag would be selling on the Walmart Marketplace. Check it out: https://tinyurl.com/esby6b6f.


Rebag sells on other platforms including having an eBay store and selling on thredUP. For further information please refer to my January 27, 2025 post "Tips for Navigating the Secondhand Luxury Handbag Market"


Rebag urges you to join Rebag+ by showing how much less the item would cost if you join. Below is an example of the price difference for buying a Saint Laurent Icare Shopping Tote. The price is $4,355 without membership and $4,137, with the membership, a $218 difference, or 5%.

After clicking on "JOIN NOW" you land on a page shown below that includes the options for monthly membership fees starting at $50 and going up to $500. To the right there is information showing what the $50 monthly fee is "worth."


Note these four blue bars show what the $50 monthly payment generates and there are individual graphs for the other three monthly fee options. The bars and content require careful reading!

On the one hand, a minimum $50 monthly membership fee seems relatively high. However, considering the costly, often multi-thousand-dollar items, the fee could be justified. It is also possible Rebag+ could be attractive for those who make more frequent and lower priced purchases. It's crucial to thoroughly review the website, the FAQ section and seek clarification before committing.


Earning Bloomingdale's Loyalist Points When Buying Rebag Items

As noted above, Rebag sells on other platforms. For those who are a member of the free Bloomingdale's Loyalist Rewards Program, buying a Rebag item on Bloomingdales.com could be a great option. Via email I leaned from Bloomingdale's customer support that Rebag purchases are included in earning Loyalist points!


I received the following email: "I have reviewed your concern and would like to inform you that if you purchase the third party items from Bloomingdale's website then you are still eligible to earn the loyalist points. Please make sure your payment should be made by credit card not a gift card." Caution here: Please have Bloomingdale's confirm this in writing before you purchase a Rebag item.


Innovative and and Deserves Wider Promotion

Fashionphile partners with at least two travel related loyalty programs, including Avios and Wyndham Rewards. There could be more of these partnerships, though I could not locate them. Tying travel to luxury handbags and fine jewelry makes great sense, and I love this approach.


Avios is used by several airlines and loyalty

programs, such as British Airways and Qatar Airways Privilege Club. The progam offfers that members can earn Avios loyalty currency for every $1 spent at Fashionphile. The current offer shows the shopper will earn 3 Avios for each $1 spent at Fashionphile through the end of March, instead of the typical 1 Avios for each $1 spent at Fashionphile.



Fashionphile is included in Wyndham Rewards Shopping program. Members can earn Wyndham Rewards points for every $1 spent at Fashionphile.


Similar to Avios, there is a promotion through the end of March 2025. Instead of earning 2 points for each $1 spent at Fashionphile, 5 points are earned for each $1 spent.


I searched for these two partnerships on the Fashionphile platform and I did not see references to these. (Maybe I missed it.) And since they aren't listed, perhaps Fashionphile is partnering with other loyalty programs. The reason for this information gap is unclear, but it could be typical for such rewards programs.


Nonetheless, I believe Fashionphile should communicate these partnerships more effectively to enhance customer awareness and engagement.


Conclusion

The four loyalty programs outlined above have unique attributes. Although a loyalty program isn't likely the primary reason to shop at a luxury reseller, they are worth taking into account. However, a thorough understanding of the program prior to joining or making a purchase is mandatory!


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. Research for this post was conducted between February 28, 2025 and March 4, 2025. This is not a comprehensive review describing all aspects of each program and aspects of the programs 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 image of the handbag at the top of this post was generated by Gemini AI Pro.


Image generated by Gemini AI Pro
Image generated by Gemini AI Pro

Background

Vigilance is key in the world of online reselling, and even with years of experience, staying alert is crucial. With four years of experience selling on Poshmark and a strict policy of my communications staying on the platform, I believe I've become adept at avoiding scams.


I also find Reddit threads about Poshmark and Mercari, detailing others' experiences with potential scams and phishing, incredibly helpful. Staying vigilant by scanning online news about resale sites is also a priority.


My vigilance was recently tested when I encountered a potential scam on Poshmark, and I want to share my experience, as well as Poshmark's disappointing response to my reports.

Screen Shot of Messages Received
Screen Shot of Messages Received

Last week, shortly after listing a jacket on Poshmark, I received a message that the buyer added the jacket to her/his bundle. Then, an unusually lengthy and strangely worded message followed from the same person.


Messages Received From the Scammer

I was led to believe I had sold the jacket when I read: "Congratulations! Your item has been purchased..." Yet, I quickly realized this was the beginning of a scam. Here are the tell-tale signs:


The message began with an indecipherable statement: "(Name of Poshmark Closet - I'm not including the name of the closet) requested styling for 'Surprise Me.' '' I've never seen that expression, and it doesn't make any sense!


Even more telling, part of the message misspelled 'Poshmark' as 'Poshamark.' This was a particularly foolish error, given the scammer claimed to be contacting me on behalf of Poshmark. It was becoming increasingly clear that this was not a legitimate interaction."

Screen Shot of Messages Received


Banner Showing Item Sold
Banner Showing Item Sold

Furthermore, I realized the item was not

sold, as two steps that quickly occur after a legitimate Poshmark sale did not take place.


(1) A red 'Sold' banner is attached to the sold item and is immediately visible in the seller's listings. An example of the sold banner on another of my sold jackets is shown here.


(2) Poshmark sends an email notification of the sale to the seller. The email is from orders@poshmark.com and includes the pre-paid mailing label.

The absence of these standard sales indicators confirmed my suspicion that the scammer did not purchase the jacket. These details, combined with the other red flags, made the scam increasingly obvious.


But wait, there's more! Towards the end of the message, I was instructed: "Please follow the link below to complete verification." Well, that wasn't going to happen! Realizing this was a clear phishing attempt, and instead of continuing to interact with the scammer via Poshmark messaging, I chose to alert Poshmark. I assumed Poshmark would be communicative and an ally and promptly remove the scammer from their platform. This, unfortunately, did not happen.


Poshmark Support

Poshmark responded to my request for support in a timely manner. However, the response was a string of canned sentences. Here are a few sentences from the email. Given its boilerplate in nature, you can imagine the rest!


Below is a sentence in Poshmark's email that is applicable to what the scammer sent me. Yet, I felt the response did not go far enough to ensure Poshmark isolated this digital duper. I included the bold and my comments are in blue.


"It is likely these comments and/or emails were phishing attempts. Please disregard it. Do not click on any links, provide personal information, or engage with the sender or caller. We will never call to inform you of or confirm changes to your account." (Why is it "likely?" It is more than "likely" as it was clar Poshmark did not send the message to me. It came from the scammer.)


"To determine if the communication is from Poshmark, always verify that emails are from poshmark.com directly. If the sender's email does not end with @poshmark.com, it did not come from Poshmark." (In my note to Poshmark Support did not include anything about an email from a scammer. I reached out about a message on the Poshmark platform).


The combination of seeing my message was not fully addressed, along with fearing Poshmark "newbies" might have clicked on the link, as an honest seller and a Poshmark Ambassador I felt that this scammer should be promptly expelled from Poshmark.


Poshmark ended its email by stating:"Let us know if you have any other questions!" I did indeed respond, and my response concluded with:"Kindly confirm Poshmark has deleted this closet so it won't harm those that trust Poshmark to make Poshmark a safe and law abiding marketplace."


I did not receive a response from Poshmark and I sent a few follow-ups. Still waiting.


As of the date of this post the scammer is still on the Poshmark platform. I'm unsure if Poshmark is understaffed to handle such alerts from diligent sellers such as myself, or simply uninterested in making Poshmark a safe and comfortable platform.


Conclusion

In July 2024 while attending a Poshmark event in New York City I noticed Manish Chandra, Poshmark’s CEO on the terrace. (I had previously seen him interviewed on television.) I approached him, introduced myself and shared my concerns about a few aspects of selling on Poshmark. I found him to be engaged and thoughtful. He was gracious and supportive, expressing his commitment to making Poshmark a more user-friendly n effective platform. I believe he would be interested in the experience I presented in this post, and I hope this will lead to positive changes that will make Poshmark a safer and more trustworthy platform for all users.


My answer to the question:"Is Poshmark taking enough steps to combat scammer and sellers? is no, I do not believe they are doing enough. And since this is a potentially risky selling environment it is crucial for all resellers to remain vigilant, as even experienced sellers are not immune to sophisticated scams. Sharing our experiences can help create a safer environment for everyone. I'm interested in learning what you have been experiencing on resale platforms.



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. All opinions are my own, and I have not received any compensation for writing this post.

  • Bluesky

© 2017 - 2025 by Pamela Tucker. All rights reserved.

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