How to Buy a Second-Hand Designer Bag With Confidence

Buying a secondhand designer bag should feel considered, not complicated. It’s this approach that recently saw Sign of the Times included in Vogue’s guide to where to shop - a quiet confirmation of what our customers have trusted for decades.

With luxury resale more visible than ever, knowing how to buy well matters. From condition and authenticity to relevance and value, here’s how to approach secondhand designer bags with confidence and without regret.

1. Start with relevance, not rarity  

A common mistake when shopping pre-loved designer is focusing on rarity over wearability. The best bags aren’t necessarily the hardest to find - they’re the ones that fit seamlessly into your life now.

At Sign of the Times, our edit is led by relevance rather than rules. While much of what we stock comes from recent seasons, we also carry vintage pieces when they feel right - chosen for how they look, wear and function today, not simply for age or rarity.

Ask yourself:

• Would I wear this regularly?

• Does it suit my lifestyle right now?

• Will it still feel relevant next season?

Confidence comes from choosing a bag you’ll actually use.

2. Condition matters more than age  

When it comes to secondhand designer, age is far less important than condition. A well-cared-for bag from a few seasons ago can look and wear far better than a newer piece that’s been heavily used.

Look closely at:

• Corners and edges

• Handles and straps

• Hardware and closures

• Interior lining

Our buying team assesses every piece in detail, only accepting items that meet our standards for condition and longevity. It’s about quality you can see and trust.

3. Buy from specialists, not platforms  

Luxury resale isn’t one-size-fits-all. Marketplaces offer volume; specialists offer judgement.

Buying from an established resale expert means:

• Authentication by experienced buyers

• Clear grading and transparency

• Honest advice if a piece isn’t right for you

Having traded since 1976, Sign of the Times brings nearly five decades of expertise to every bag we source. That depth of knowledge removes uncertainty and makes the process feel straightforward.

4. Think long-term value, not quick wins  

A confident purchase is one that still feels good a year from now.

Classic silhouettes, neutral tones, and strong craftsmanship tend to hold their value best, both emotionally and financially. Trend-led styles can be fun, but longevity should always be part of the conversation.

We curate with restraint, focusing on bags that earn their place in your wardrobe rather than chasing every trend cycle.

5. Trust your instinct — backed by expertise  

Ultimately, confidence comes from a balance of instinct and information. If a bag feels right, fits your life, and comes from a source you trust, you’re already making a good decision.

Our role is to make that decision easier - through careful sourcing, clear presentation, and service that respects your time.

Shop with confidence  

Whether you’re investing in your first pre-loved designer bag or adding to an existing collection, buying well is about clarity, trust, and relevance.

Explore our current edit of secondhand designer bags - carefully sourced, ready to wear, and chosen to stand the test of time.