How to Sell Thrift Clothes Online in Nigeria

18 Sep 2024 16 min read

“Na mumu dey go boutique.”

If you've ever walked past a thrift (Okrika) market, these words shouldn't be new to you. For me, they formed a part of my life from when I was 16 until I turned 20.

I spent countless hours at Igbudu market, shouting that phrase and sorting through piles of clothes. The songs, the bargaining, and the excitement of finally selling an item became second nature.

Now, with all those years of market hustle and a deep love for fashion, I’m here to share how you can build a successful online thrift store. If you’ve ever dreamed of selling thrift clothes online in Nigeria, this is your chance to turn that dream into reality.

*let’s go gif*

What are Thrift Clothes?

Thrift clothes, in simple terms, are second-hand clothes—clothes that someone else has owned before they find their way to you.

But don’t think it’s just old rags. No o! These clothes are often still in good shape, sometimes even brand new.

They come from places like Europe and America. And you can find everything from fancy jackets to stylish dresses, all at a much cheaper price.

Now, here’s the interesting part: shopping for thrift clothes is like going on a treasure hunt. You go to the market, maybe bend down, and start sorting through piles of clothes.

You never know what you’ll find—it could be a designer top or that perfect pair of jeans you’ve been looking for. And when you find that gem? It’s like you’ve won the lottery, especially considering the price you’ll pay.

Why Nigerians Love Thrift Fashion

Why is Okrika/ thrift clothes so popular amongst Nigerians?

Affordable Fashion:

Let’s face it—new clothes can be really expensive, especially the nice ones. But with thrift, you can still look sharp without burning a hole in your pocket.

Whether you’re a student managing pocket money or just someone who loves a good bargain, thrift shopping is your best friend. High-quality clothes, small money—what’s not to love?

Be Unique:

You know how everyone wants to look different and not be caught wearing the same thing as someone else? Thrift clothes help with that.

Since these clothes are often one-of-a-kind, you can mix and match to create your own unique style. Trust me, there’s nothing better than stepping out in an outfit and knowing nobody else will show up wearing the same thing.

Quality for Less:

You will be surprised at the kind of quality you get with thrift clothes. Some of these items are from big brands known for making durable clothes.

The Joy of Finding a Gem:

There’s something special about the whole process of thrift shopping. It’s not like shopping in a store where everything is neatly arranged. No, this is more fun—you dig, you search, and when you finally find that perfect piece, it feels like a personal victory.

Alexa play me ‘stand up for the champions’

Sourcing Thrift Clothes

When it comes to sourcing quality thrift clothes in Nigeria, you can go to local markets or online wholesalers.

Markets in Nigeria

Yaba Market (Lagos)

Yaba Market, located in the heart of Lagos, is one of the most well-known places to find thrift clothes. If you’re in Lagos and love fashion, Yaba Market is like a goldmine. The market is bustling with vendors selling everything from clothes and shoes to accessories and bags.

What makes Yaba Market special is the variety. Whether you’re looking for casual wear, office attire, or vintage pieces, Yaba has it. The prices are pretty affordable, but you need to be ready to haggle like a Nigerian mom.

Katangua Market (Abule-Egba, Lagos)

Katangua Market, also known as the “Super Market,” is another major hub for thrift clothes in Lagos.

Located in Abule-Egba, this market is one of the largest in the city for second-hand clothing. It’s well-known among traders who buy in bulk to resell.

The market is divided into sections that sell men’s wear, women’s fashion, children’s clothes, and more. One of the standout features of Katangua is the availability of “First Grade ” items. If you’re buying in bulk, Katangua is the place to go, as the prices here are affordable.

Vespa Market (Badagry Expressway, Lagos)

Vespa Market is another great spot for thrift shopping. It may not be as famous as Yaba or Katangua, but it’s a hidden gem for those who know where to look.

Vespa Market is particularly good for finding unique and vintage items. If you’re into fashion that stands out and doesn’t want to wear what everyone else is wearing, Vespa might be your go-to spot.

The market is a bit smaller, but that’s what gives it its charm. The vendors are friendly and often willing to negotiate prices. You can find a mix of casual and formal wear here.

Aswani Market (Isolo, Lagos)

Aswani Market, located in Isolo, Lagos, is famous for its Tuesday market days. This is when the market is most vibrant, with vendors displaying their latest arrivals. Aswani is well-known for offering some of the best thrift clothes prices in Lagos. If you want to stretch your budget and still get quality items, Aswani is the place to be.

One of the key things about Aswani is the timing. If you want the best picks, go early in the day when the bales are first opened. The market has many clothing options, from everyday casual to workwear and even some trendy pieces. It’s a great place for both bulk buyers and individual shoppers.

Balogun Market (Lagos Island)

Balogun Market, located on Lagos Island, is one of Lagos's largest and busiest markets. It’s a one-stop shop for almost anything, including thrift clothes. The market is spread out over several streets, so it can be overwhelming.

Thrift shopping in Balogun is an adventure. You’ll find a mix of shoes, bags, clothes, and even accessories. You can find high-end items and more everyday wear, all at very competitive prices.

Other markets in Nigeria to explore include:

Igbudu market (Warri)
Makaiva market (Warri)
Oil mill market (Port-Harcourt)
New Benin Market (Benin)
New Market (Benin)
Nyanya Market (Abuja)
Wuse Market (Abuja)
Ogbe-Ogonogo Modern Market (Asaba)
Mile 1 market (Port-Harcourt)
Ariaria market (Aba)
Onitsha market (Anambra)

Online Wholesale Platforms

Now, if you’re not in the mood to hit the markets, online wholesale platforms are a great option. Websites like Jiji, and sometimes even social media platforms like Instagram, have sellers specializing in thrift clothes.

Shopping online is convenient because you can do it from anywhere. You just need to make sure you’re dealing with reputable sellers. Check reviews, ask questions, and sometimes, a little research can go a long way.

PS: While shopping online is convenient, it might not be the best option if you are looking to sell the clothes in your thrift store. It might be more expensive than what you will get from the markets, and you might not be able to tell the quality.

How to Assess the Quality of Thrift Clothes

Check the Fabric:

Start by feeling the fabric. Good quality clothes usually have a certain weight to them—they feel sturdy, not flimsy.

For example, cotton and denim are strong fabrics that can last a long time. If the fabric feels too thin or is already showing signs of wear, it’s probably not going to last much longer.

Inspect the Seams:

Turn the clothes inside out and look at the seams. Are they straight and tight, or are they coming apart? Well-made clothes have strong seams that won’t easily get loosed.

If the seams are loose or you see threads sticking out, that’s a sign the item might not hold up after a few washes.

Look for Stains and Damage:

Before you buy, check the clothes for stains, tears, or missing buttons. Some stains can be removed, but others might be permanent.

If there’s a tear, think about whether you can easily fix it or if it’s in a place that will be noticeable. It’s okay to buy clothes with minor issues, as long as you’re ready to repair them.

Check the Brand Label:

Some brands are known for making durable clothes, so if you spot a familiar brand, that’s usually a good sign. However, don’t just buy it because of the brand—make sure the item is still in good condition.

Assess the Fit:

Thrift shopping is great for finding unique pieces, but it’s important to consider the fit. Try on the clothes if you can, or at least hold them up against you to see if they’ll fit well.

Remember, you can always take in or adjust clothes that are a bit too big, but it’s harder to fix items that are too small.

Consider the Trend:

Thrift shopping is a great way to find trendy items without spending much money. Look for clothes that match current trends, like specific colors, patterns, or styles. But also watch for classic pieces that never go out of style.

Different Grades of Thrift Clothes

Not all thrift clothes are the same. They’re divided into different grades based on their quality and condition. Here’s a quick breakdown:

First Grade A:

These are the top-quality thrift items. They’re usually in excellent condition, sometimes even looking brand new. You might find clothes with no visible signs of wear or tear, and they’re often from well-known brands.

Second Grade B:

Grade B items are still good but might have minor flaws like a small stain, a loose button, or a bit of fading. These clothes are still very wearable and can be great finds.

Third Grade C:

These items have more noticeable flaws—maybe a tear, larger stains, or significant fading. They’re the cheapest but require more effort to make them look good. Grade C clothes are best if you’re into upcycling or looking for materials to use in other projects.

Setting Up Your Online Thrift Store

So, you’ve decided to start selling thrift clothes online in Nigeria—great choice. But where do you begin?

Choose the Right Platform

First things first, you need to decide where you’re going to sell your thrift clothes online.

While platforms like Jumia offer services like logistics and payment, they might not be the best places to find people actively looking for your store.

This is where platforms like Instagram and Facebook come in.

Instagram:

Instagram is one of the most powerful tools for selling thrift clothes online. It’s all about visuals and engagement, perfect for showcasing your unique thrift finds.

Pros:

Visual Appeal:

Instagram is a highly visual platform that is ideal for fashion. You can showcase your thrift clothes through high-quality photos and videos, giving potential buyers a clear view of what you’re selling.

Engagement and Community Building:

Instagram allows you to build a community around your brand. By posting engaging content and interacting with your followers, you can create a loyal customer base. Instagram Stories and Reels are also great tools for connecting with your audience more personally.

Targeted Reach:

With Instagram’s advanced targeting options, you can reach a new audience that will likely be interested in your thrift store.

You can use hashtags, location tags, and paid promotions to make sure people who are interested in your clothes see your posts.

Influencer Collaborations:

Instagram is a hub for influencers, many of whom have large, engaged followings. Partnering with influencers who match your brand can help you reach more people and build trust for your store.

An influencer wearing your thrift pieces and tagging your store can drive significant traffic and sales.

Cons:

High Competition:

Instagram is a popular platform for fashion businesses, so the competition can be fierce. To stand out, you need to spend time making high quality content and interacting with your audience..

Algorithm Changes:

Instagram’s algorithm can be unpredictable. Sometimes, your posts might not reach as many people as you’d like, especially if they don’t generate a lot of immediate engagement. This means you need to be strategic with your posting times and content to maximize visibility.

Time-Consuming: Managing an Instagram account effectively requires a lot of time and effort. It's almost a full-time job, from taking and editing photos to writing captions and engaging with followers. You’ll need to be consistent and creative to keep your audience interested.

Content Strategies for Instagram

High-Quality Photos:

Instagram is all about visuals, so make sure your photos are crisp, clear, and well-lit. Use natural light whenever possible, and consider investing in a good camera or smartphone with a high-quality camera.

Show your thrift clothes from different angles—front, back, and close-up shots of details like buttons or fabric textures.

Creative Captions:

Your captions should be engaging and reflect your brand’s personality. They can be fun, witty, or informative—whatever suits your brand.

For example, you can share styling tips, the story behind a particular piece, or why it’s a must-have item. Don’t forget to include a call-to-action, like “DM to purchase” or “Link in bio to shop.”

Use Hashtags:

Hashtags are essential for reaching new audiences on Instagram. Use relevant hashtags like #ThriftFashion, #Okrika, #NaijaStyle, and #SustainableFashion to make your posts discoverable.

You can also create a branded hashtag for your store, like #ShopRetroNaija, to encourage customers to share their purchases.

Instagram Stories and Reels:

Use Instagram Stories to give your followers a behind-the-scenes look at your business. You can showcase new arrivals, share how you source your items, or even do quick styling sessions.

Reels, which are short, engaging videos, are another great way to showcase your products and reach a broader audience. For example, you can create a Reel showing different ways to style a thrifted item.

Engage with Your Audience:

Don’t just post and disappear; you are not oganigwe. Make sure to respond to comments, reply to DMs, and engage with your followers’ content.

This builds a sense of community and loyalty around your brand. To boost engagement, you can also run polls, ask questions, or host giveaways.

Callout: Want to understand your target audience better? Learn how to create a buyer persona that reflects. your audience wholly.

Influencer Marketing:

Partner with local influencers who have a strong presence in the fashion community. They can help promote your thrift store by featuring your products in their posts, stories, or Reels. Make sure to choose influencers whose style aligns with your brand for the best results.

Creating a Brand Identity

Now that you’ve chosen your platform, let’s talk about your brand. Your brand is what makes your thrift store unique and memorable.

Unique Brand Name and Logo:

Your brand name is the first thing people will notice, so make it catchy and easy to remember. It should also reflect the vibe of your thrift store—are you selling trendy pieces, vintage finds, or a mix of everything?

Once you have a name, you’ll need a logo that represents your brand visually. Your logo should be simple, clean, and something that sticks in people’s minds. Think of it as your store’s signature.

Developing a Brand Story:

Your brand story is the “why” behind your thrift store. Why did you start selling thrift clothes? What makes your store different from others? Maybe you’re passionate about sustainability and want to promote eco-friendly fashion.

Or perhaps you love helping people find unique, affordable outfits. Whatever your story is, share it with your customers. People connect with stories, and when they understand your mission, they’re more likely to support your business.

For example, you name your thrift store “Retro Naija.” Your story could be about your love for retro fashion and your goal of bringing stylish pieces to Nigerians who love retro fashion.

This story will resonate with customers who love nostalgia and unique fashion. And with the Y2K fashion slowly creeping back into the Nigerian fashion scenes, you can do some good numbers.

Callout: Don’t scroll yet. Here’s the ultimate checklist you need to start your business.

Factors to Consider in Pricing

When setting prices for your thrift clothes, there are a few key things you need to think about:

Cost of Goods:

First, consider how much you spent to get these clothes. Did you buy them in bulk from a market, or did you get them from an online supplier? Whatever the case, you need to make sure you’re charging enough to cover what you spent, plus a little extra for your profit.

Market Demand:

Think about what’s hot right now. Are people looking for vintage jackets, designer bags, or maybe casual jeans?

If you’ve got something that’s in high demand, you can charge a bit more. But if it’s something that’s not so popular at the moment, you might need to price it lower to move it quickly.

Competitor Pricing:

Check out what others are charging for similar items. If everyone else is selling a similar dress for ₦3,000, you don’t want to price yours at ₦10,000. On the flip side, don’t underprice yourself either, you are not father christmas.

Strategies for Competitive Pricing

Offering Discounts:

Everyone loves a good deal. You can offer discounts on certain items, especially if you’ve had them for a while and want to clear them out.

For example, you could do a “Buy One, Get One Half Off” deal or give a percentage discount for first-time buyers.

Bundle Deals:

Sometimes, selling items in bundles can help move stock faster and give customers the sense that they are getting more for their money.

For instance, you could offer a package deal where buying three shirts together costs less than buying them individually. This way, you sell more items at once, and customers feel like they’re saving.

Promotions:

Running special promotions, especially on social media, can create buzz around your thrift store. You could have a “birthday/ anniversary/ black friday Sale” or offer free delivery on orders over a certain amount. These little extras can make a big difference in attracting customers.

Marketing and Promoting Your Thrift Store

“Best known beats best.”

If you want the word of your business to spread out, you need to “carry your market for head.” others might want to be chill about their business, but not you. Here are some ways to spread the word:

Utilizing Social Media:

In today’s world, if you’re not on social media, you miss out on a huge opportunity. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are where people hang out, and they’re perfect for showing off your thrift store.

Paid Advertising:

Sometimes, you need to invest a little in advertising to reach more people. Social media platforms and Google make it easy to run targeted ads that can bring in new customers.

Collaborate with Influencers:

Partner with micro-influencers who resonate with your target audience. They can help showcase your products to a larger, engaged community.

Host Giveaways:

Organize simple giveaways on social media to increase engagement and attract new followers.

Create a Blog or Vlog:

Share styling tips, thrift shopping experiences, and fashion trends. This content can attract traffic to your store and build your brand’s authority.

Email Marketing:

Collect customer email addresses and send newsletters with new arrivals, special offers, and fashion tips. Email marketing keeps your audience informed and engaged.

Collaborate with Other Businesses:

Partner with local businesses, like cafes or boutiques, to cross-promote each other. This helps both businesses reach new customers.

Scaling Your Thrift Business

Your baby is all grown, and you want to take it to the next level. Here are some practical tips to note:

Expand Your Inventory:

The first step to scaling is to increase the items you offer. If you started with just clothes, maybe it’s time to add accessories like bags, shoes, or even jewelry. This gives your customers more options, which can lead to more sales.

Improve Your Online Presence:

As your business grows, having a strong online presence is crucial. This means ensuring your website or social media pages are professional, easy to navigate, and regularly updated.

Hire Help:

“Body nor be firewood.”

As much as you would love to do everything yourself, there comes a point when you need extra hands. Hiring part-time or even full-time staff can free you up to focus on growing the business.

You could hire someone to help with packing orders or manage social media. As your business grows, you can bring on more people to handle different parts of the business.

Analyze and Adapt:

Finally, as you scale, it’s important to monitor what’s working and what’s not. This means regularly reviewing your sales, customer feedback, and marketing efforts.

If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to change it. Scaling a business is about adapting to your customers' wants and finding new ways to meet their needs.

Challenges and Solutions in Selling Thrift Clothes Online

Finding Quality Stock:

One of the biggest challenges is finding quality thrift clothes to sell. You don’t want to end up with too worn out or damaged items, as this can hurt your reputation.

Competition:

The thrift clothing market is growing, so more people are starting their stores. With so many options available, standing out can be tough.

Trust Issues with Customers:

Since your customers cannot try on the clothes, they might worry about the quality, if it will fit, or if they will get their order.

Logistics and Delivery:

Managing deliveries can be tricky. There’s the risk of delays, lost packages, or damaged items in transit, which can lead to unhappy customers.

(https://blog.heroshe.com/improve-customer-satisfaction/)

Here are some practical solutions to try out:

Careful Sourcing:

To ensure you get quality stock, take your time when sourcing clothes. Visit trusted markets, buy from reputable suppliers, and inspect each item carefully before purchasing..

Branding and Niche:

To stand out from the competition, focus on building a strong brand and finding a niche. Whether it’s vintage fashion, streetwear, or office wear, having a clear niche makes it easier for customers to remember and choose your store.

Build Trust with Transparency:

Be honest and clear about the condition of each item. Use high-quality photos and detailed descriptions to show any flaws or unique features. Also, share customer reviews to build trust with potential buyers.

Choose Reliable Delivery Partners:

Work with trusted courier services with a good track record for timely and safe deliveries. Provide customers with tracking information so they can monitor their orders. This helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence in your store.

Customer Communication:

Keep communication open and prompt. If there’s an issue with an order, let the customer know immediately and offer solutions. Good communication can turn a negative experience into a positive one.

Let’s Set You Up for Success

Selling thrift clothes online in Nigeria can be very rewarding with the right approach. You have learned how to understand the thrift market, market your store effectively, and handle challenges.

Success takes time, but your thrift store can stand out and grow with steady effort, creativity, and a focus on your customers.

So, what are you waiting for? Put these tips into action, stay patient, and watch your online thrift business flourish. You’ve got this!

Hungry for more tips and insights? Subscribe to the Heroshe blog for the latest updates and expert advice to keep you ahead of the game.

Ilaya Teejay

Ilaya Teejay is the Content Marketing Associate at Heroshe. She believes words can shape user experiences, and she's turning this belief into a career that helps people and businesses succeed.

Lagos, Nigeria

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