Luxury Brand Spotlight: Analyzing Resale Value Trends of Top Designer Labels

The luxury resale market is no longer just a niche segment of the clothing market—it’s a driving force in the fashion industry. Today, shoppers aren’t just buying designer items for personal enjoyment; they’re also considering how those items will hold their value in the resale market. A handbag, watch or piece of jewelry can now be just as much an investment as it is an accessory.

One of the most important factors in determining a piece’s resale value is its brand. Resale value is a powerful indicator of a brand’s desirability, craftsmanship and staying power. Some brands consistently dominate resale platforms, while others rise and fall with trends. Let’s take a look at a few of the names grabbing attention in the brand-specific resale market and how you can upgrade your wardrobe with pre-loved pieces.

Resale Value Trends for Major Luxury Brands

On the designer resale market, not every brand is created equal. Some brands tend to retain value exceptionally well compared to the overall market.

Hermès

Hermès represents the gold standard on the luxury resale market, with almost every piece retaining value over time if kept in great condition. Some of Hermès’ most coveted items have even been known to increase in value over time. For example, the Birkin and Kelly bags are more than accessories—they’re status symbols thanks to their impeccable handcrafted designs and limited, exclusive production runs. Limited colors, exotic leathers, and rare editions are especially coveted, with some selling for several times their retail price just a few years after release.

Dior

Dior has enjoyed renewed popularity in recent years, thanks in part to the revival of the Saddle Bag. Collaborative collections, such as the Dior x Air Jordan 1 sneakers, also boosted the brand’s resale appeal, branching into a more contemporary market of collectors. Favorites like the Lady Dior and the Book Tote also retain value well on the resale market compared to other well-known luxury houses.

Prada

Prada’s minimalist aesthetic has ensured steady resale value, particularly for Re-Edition bags and pieces in nylon or saffiano leather. These items are considered practical yet luxurious, making them versatile for buyers.

Other Designer Houses

Fashion and bag brands aren’t the only designer houses with pieces that retain value. Timeless names in watches and jewelry like Rolex, Tiffany & Co. and Omega are also well-known for creating pieces that withstand the test of time and that can be handed down from one generation to the next.

Factors Influencing Resale Value

There’s no exact formula that determines what an item will fetch on the resale market—some items might be in great condition but sell at a lower price point when they’re less popular, while trendy designs can periodically fetch higher prices even in poor condition.

Timelessness of Each Design

Timeless designs are the cornerstone of strong resale value. Pieces with classic, enduring styles remain relevant across decades and appeal to a broad audience. For example, the Cartier Love bracelet is just as coveted and valuable as it was when it was introduced to the market in the 1960s. Buyers trust that these items will remain fashionable, giving them confidence to invest in them. This is especially true for those purchasing with an eye on long-term value or collecting.

Brand Reputation

Hermès, Dior and Louis Vuitton are trusted names in luxury, synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship. Buyers perceive items from these brands as investments, knowing their value is less likely to depreciate. Bags and classic fashion items from these brands tend to perform better on the resale market because shoppers are willing to pay a premium to invest in high-quality materials.

Trends and Pop Culture

Like most things, an article of clothing’s popularity can ebb and flow over time. Celebrities and social media influencers frequently influence the resale market, making trends and breathing new life into vintage designs. For example, the revival of the Dior Saddle Bag gained traction when it appeared on influencers’ Instagram feeds and in celebrity wardrobes. The Gucci Marmont line also owes much of its popularity to heavy promotion by trendsetters and the brand’s pop-culture resurgence under Alessandro Michele.

Condition and Item Wearability

Condition is one of the most significant factors influencing resale value. Buyers prioritize items that are well-maintained, and the closer an item is to pristine condition, the higher its price. For example, a Rolex Submariner with minimal scratches and its original box will command far more than one with heavy wear and no documentation. Similarly, a Hermès Birkin bag in pristine condition can sell for nearly retail price or more. Vintage pieces that are well-maintained, especially from sought-after collections, attract collectors and often sell at a premium.

Future Predictions for the Resale Market

The resale market is constantly evolving, and what’s in fashion will always change based on trends. Looking toward the future of the retail market, we anticipate the following items will become more popular pre-loved.

Fabrics

One of the top reasons why fashion enthusiasts love vintage clothing is the use of higher-quality materials. In addition to brand, pay attention to the materials that make up pieces you plan to keep for years. Pieces with 100% wool, cotton and linen may be more valuable on the resale market thanks to their higher level of sturdiness.

Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a driving force in the luxury market. Consumers, particularly younger generations, are prioritizing eco-conscious choices, making secondhand luxury items more appealing than ever. The demand for resale platforms and authenticated pre-owned luxury will grow, with more consumers opting for high-quality secondhand pieces over fast fashion or new luxury items.

New Players

While names like Hermès and Louis Vuitton are likely to continue to be in demand, emerging brands are poised to gain ground in the resale market. Brands like Bottega Veneta and Loewe gained traction due to their minimalist aesthetics and innovative designs. Items like the Bottega Veneta Cassette bag and the Loewe Puzzle bag are becoming modern classics, making them strong contenders in the resale space.

Making the Most of Your Fashion Investments

Looking to refresh your wardrobe the responsible way? Now is a great time to trade in your pre-loved designer pieces and update your style with up to 90% retail prices with The RealReal. Learn more and list your pieces today.