How to Sell on Depop: Complete Guide for Resellers (2026)

Depop isn’t just another resale platform—it’s where Gen Z goes to buy and sell vintage fashion, Y2K throwbacks, and curated streetwear. With over 35 million registered users and 90% of them under 26, Depop represents one of the most lucrative opportunities for resellers who understand visual aesthetics and social commerce.

Since Etsy acquired Depop for $1.6 billion in 2021, the platform has only grown stronger, becoming the go-to marketplace for vintage fashion and sustainable secondhand shopping. But success on Depop requires a different approach than traditional resale platforms like eBay or Poshmark.

This complete guide breaks down everything you need to know: from understanding Depop’s Instagram-style algorithm to mastering the aesthetic photography standards that convert browsers into buyers. Whether you’re a seasoned reseller looking to tap into the Gen Z market or a complete beginner, you’ll learn exactly how to build a profitable Depop shop in 2026.

What Is Depop? The Social Shopping Platform

Depop launched in 2011 as a social shopping app that combines the visual discovery of Instagram with the buying and selling functionality of a marketplace. Think of it as Instagram meets Etsy meets vintage thrift store—all in one mobile-first platform.

How Depop Works: Unlike traditional marketplaces, Depop emphasizes social interaction. Users follow their favorite sellers, like items, leave reviews, and discover products through an algorithm-driven Explore page. The app’s interface mirrors Instagram’s feed layout, making shopping feel more like browsing social media than navigating a traditional e-commerce site.

Why Gen Z Dominates: Depop’s user base skews heavily Gen Z (ages 18-26), with 90% of active users under 26. This demographic gravitates toward Depop for several reasons: the platform champions sustainability and circular fashion, celebrates individual style over mass-market trends, and provides a discovery-based shopping experience that feels authentic rather than corporate.

2026 Market Position: Since the Etsy acquisition, Depop has benefited from improved infrastructure, payment processing, and seller support while maintaining its indie aesthetic. The platform processes over $650 million in annual gross merchandise value, with vintage and Y2K fashion representing the largest categories. In 2026, Depop is expanding its seller tools, improving search functionality, and rolling out enhanced analytics for top sellers.

The average successful Depop seller makes $1,500-$4,000 monthly, with top vintage curators earning six figures annually. The platform’s mobile-first design means 95% of transactions happen via the app, making it essential to optimize every aspect of your shop for mobile viewing.

Depop Requirements & Account Setup

Getting started on Depop is straightforward, but optimizing your account from day one sets the foundation for long-term success.

Creating Your Seller Account: Download the Depop app (iOS or Android) and sign up with an email, phone number, or connect via Google/Apple ID. Unlike platforms that require extensive business verification upfront, Depop lets you start selling immediately after basic account creation. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent) and have a valid payment method for receiving funds.

Profile Optimization: Your Depop profile is your brand. Here’s how to optimize it:

• Username: Choose something memorable and searchable. Many successful sellers use their shop name or niche (e.g., @VintageY2KGems, @90sStreetwear). You can change this once, so choose wisely.

• Profile Photo: Use a high-quality logo or personal brand photo. Circular format, clear on mobile, consistent with your shop aesthetic.

• Shop Bio: You have 80 characters to communicate your brand. Include your niche, shipping info, and personality. Example: “🌟 Y2K & Vintage Fashion | Ships Same Day | DM for Bundles | Sustainable Style”

• Shop Policies: Pin a listing with shop policies (shipping times, bundle discounts, return policy, measurements info). This reduces customer service questions and builds trust.

Verification and Security:

• Enable two-factor authentication immediately to protect your account
• Verify your email and phone number for higher trust signals
• Connect Depop Payments (required for new sellers as of 2024) for faster payouts
• Link your PayPal as a backup payment option (still available for buyers in some regions)

Business vs Personal Accounts: Currently, Depop doesn’t distinguish between business and personal seller accounts in the traditional sense. However, if you’re running a serious resale business:

• Register your business with local authorities for tax purposes
• Keep separate bank accounts for business transactions
• Track all Depop income (you’ll receive a 1099-K if you exceed $5,000 in sales)
• Consider forming an LLC if you’re scaling to $50K+ annually

The key difference on Depop is consistency and volume. “Shop” sellers (those with 50+ active listings) get algorithmic benefits and are more likely to appear in search results and on the Explore page.

Depop Fee Structure 2026

Understanding Depop’s fees is crucial for profitable pricing. In 2026, Depop uses a straightforward but sometimes costly fee structure.

Platform Fees:

• 10% marketplace fee on the total transaction price (including shipping costs if you charge separately)
• Payment processing fees vary by method:
  • Depop Payments: 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (Stripe-powered)
  • PayPal: 3.49% + $0.49 per transaction (still available in some regions)

Example Fee Calculation: If you sell a vintage band tee for $35 with $5 shipping ($40 total):

• Marketplace fee: $4.00 (10% of $40)
• Payment processing (Depop Payments): $1.46 (2.9% of $40 + $0.30)
• Total fees: $5.46 (13.65% of the sale)
• Your payout: $34.54

Fee Comparison Table:

*eBay fees vary by category and subscription level

Hidden Costs to Consider:

• Shipping supplies: Poly mailers, tissue paper, branded stickers, thank you cards ($0.50-$2.00 per order)
• Photography setup: Ring light, backdrop, phone tripod ($50-$150 one-time)
• Sourcing costs: Thrift store purchases, gas, estate sale admission
• Depop shipping labels: Convenient but sometimes more expensive than commercial rates (though competitive for lightweight items)
• Promoted listings: Optional paid promotion feature ($5-$50 per listing campaign)

PayPal vs Depop Payments: As of 2024, all new sellers must use Depop Payments (Stripe-powered). Legacy sellers can still offer PayPal, but Depop is phasing this out. Depop Payments offers faster dispute resolution, simpler 1099-K reporting, and slightly lower fees. Payouts arrive 10 business days after delivery confirmation, though top sellers with strong track records may receive faster processing.

The bottom line: Depop fees are competitive for the platform’s benefits (high buyer traffic, premium pricing potential, young engaged audience), but you need to price items with a minimum 60-70% margin to remain profitable after fees and costs.

💰 Smart Pricing Tip: Use Underpriced’s fee calculator to instantly compare how much you’ll net from a sale across Depop, Poshmark, Mercari, eBay, and other platforms. This helps you decide which platform maximizes profit for specific items.

What Sells Best on Depop in 2026

Depop has a distinct buyer profile, which means certain items dramatically outperform others. Understanding what sells—and what doesn’t—is the difference between a stagnant shop and consistent sales.

Vintage and Y2K Fashion (The Bread and Butter): This is Depop’s sweet spot. Items from the 1990s-early 2000s dominate the Explore page and generate the highest engagement.

Top-selling vintage categories:

• Graphic tees: Band tees, vintage sports teams, retro brand logos, tourist tees ($25-$80)
• Y2K dresses: Baby tees, slip dresses, mini skirts, low-rise jeans ($30-$120)
• Vintage denim: Levi’s 501s, mom jeans, carpenter pants, denim jackets ($40-$150)
• 90s sportswear: Nike, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Champion, Starter jackets ($35-$200)
• Accessories: Claw clips, mini bags, platform shoes, chunky jewelry ($15-$60)

Streetwear and Designer Resale: Depop’s fashion-forward audience pays premium prices for hyped brands and designer pieces.

Brands that sell fast:

• Streetwear: Supreme, Stüssy, Palace, Carhartt WIP, Dickies ($40-$300)
• Contemporary brands: Urban Outfitters, Brandy Melville, Reformation, Free People ($25-$100)
• Designer: Vintage Coach, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, designer denim ($80-$500)
• Athletic: Vintage Nike, Adidas, Reebok, New Balance, Patagonia ($30-$150)

Sustainable and Reworked Fashion: Gen Z buyers prioritize sustainability, making reworked, upcycled, and deadstock items highly desirable.

Popular reworked items:

• Cropped/distressed vintage sweatshirts ($35-$75)
• Patchwork jeans and custom embroidery ($50-$120)
• Bleach-dyed vintage tees ($30-$60)
• Reconstructed vintage pieces ($40-$100)

Specific Brands That Sell Well: Focus your sourcing on these consistently high-performing brands:

• Denim: Levi’s, Wrangler, Lee, Diesel, True Religion
• Sportswear: Nike, Adidas, Champion, Carhartt, Patagonia
• Vintage: Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Nautica, Eddie Bauer, L.L.Bean
• Contemporary: Zara, H&M (vintage pieces), Urban Outfitters, American Apparel
• Designer accessible: Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Tory Burch

Categories to Avoid: Not everything sells on Depop. Avoid these categories:

• Fast fashion (recent): Current-season Shein, Forever 21, Fashion Nova (unless Y2K era)
• Formal/corporate wear: Business suits, blazers, office dresses
• Plus-size vintage: Limited demand (though this is changing)
• Heavily damaged items: Depop buyers expect good-to-excellent condition
• Generic basics: Plain no-brand t-shirts, generic jeans without style appeal

Price Points That Convert: Depop’s sweet spot is $20-$80 per item. Items under $15 compete on price rather than curation (not Depop’s strength). Items over $150 require exceptional photography, description, and brand recognition.

Optimal price ranges by category:

• Vintage tees: $25-$50
• Denim: $35-$80
• Outerwear: $60-$150
• Dresses: $30-$90
• Accessories: $15-$40

The key is volume at mid-tier prices rather than rare $500 pieces. List 100 items at $30-$60 and you’ll outperform 10 items at $200-$300.

🔍 Find What’s Selling: Use Underpriced’s market research tool to analyze which vintage and Y2K items are currently trending on Depop and other platforms. See real sold comps, average prices, and demand trends to make smarter sourcing decisions.

Understanding the Depop Algorithm

Depop’s algorithm determines which items appear in search results and on the coveted Explore page. Understanding how it works is essential for visibility and sales.

How the Explore Page Features Work: The Explore page is Depop’s Instagram-style discovery feed where users browse curated items. Getting featured here drives massive traffic: items on Explore receive 10-50x more views than non-featured listings.

Depop’s algorithm considers:

• Listing quality: High-resolution photos, complete descriptions, proper categorization
• Seller engagement: Active sellers who like, follow, and engage with the community
• Social proof: Items with early likes and saves signal popularity
• Shop performance: Consistent sales, low return rates, positive reviews
• Freshness: Newly listed or recently refreshed items get priority

Factors That Boost Visibility: To maximize your algorithmic ranking:

1. Complete all listing fields: Title, description, brand, category, size, color, condition. Incomplete listings rank lower.

2. Use all 4 photo slots: The algorithm favors listings with multiple high-quality images showing different angles.

3. Receive early engagement: The first 2-3 hours after listing are critical. Early likes and saves signal quality to the algorithm.

4. Maintain competitive pricing: Overpriced items that don’t sell within 7 days drop in rankings.

5. Ship fast and get 5-star reviews: Seller rating directly impacts search visibility.

6. Stay active: Daily activity (listing, liking, following) keeps your shop algorithmically “fresh.”

Refresh Listing Strategy: Depop’s algorithm prioritizes recently listed items. Many sellers “refresh” sold-out or slow-moving listings to boost them back to the top of search results.

How to refresh without spamming:

• Edit and save: Change one small detail (add a word to description) and save. This updates the timestamp.
• Delete and relist: Remove the listing and repost it as new (use for items over 30 days old with no engagement)
• Optimal refresh frequency: Once every 3-4 days for slow-moving items, daily for high-value items you want to push

Warning: Excessive refreshing (multiple times per day) can trigger algorithmic penalties or account flags for spam. Refresh strategically, not desperately.

Best Times to Post: While Depop’s algorithm doesn’t heavily favor specific posting times (unlike Instagram’s earlier algorithm), engagement patterns matter:

• Peak browsing hours: 6-9 PM EST on weekdays (after school/work)
• Weekend mornings: 10 AM-1 PM on Saturdays when users browse leisurely
• Avoid: Very early morning (3-7 AM) or late night (11 PM-2 AM)

The golden rule: Post when your target audience is most active. For Gen Z, this means evenings and weekends.

Engagement Signals That Matter: The algorithm tracks multiple engagement metrics:

• Likes and saves: Early engagement signals quality
• Views-to-like ratio: High views but low likes indicate the listing isn’t resonating
• Message inquiries: Questions show serious buyer interest
• Shares: When users share your listing, it’s a strong signal
• Follow-through rate: If people view your item then check out your shop, you’re building a brand

Pro tip: Engage with other sellers in your niche. Like their items, leave genuine comments, follow accounts with similar aesthetics. This drives reciprocal engagement and exposes your shop to their followers.

Depop Listing Photography Standards

Photography makes or breaks sales on Depop. The platform’s visual-first design means your photos compete with thousands of other listings for attention. Instagram-level photography isn’t optional—it’s required.

Aesthetic Requirements (Instagram-Style): Depop buyers expect curated, cohesive aesthetics. Your photos should look intentional, not like Facebook Marketplace snapshots.

Key aesthetic rules:

• Consistent editing style: Use the same filter/preset across all listings for a branded look
• Clean backgrounds: White walls, neutral floors, or complementary color backdrops
• Good lighting: Natural light near windows or soft artificial lighting (no harsh shadows)
• Styling: Show the item’s lifestyle potential, not just the product

Flat Lays vs Modeled Photos Debate: Both work, but modeled photos significantly outperform flat lays for clothing.

Modeled photos (photos worn on a person):

• Pros: Show fit, scale, styling potential; generate higher engagement; users can visualize wearing it
• Cons: Require a model (yourself or friend); more time-consuming; body diversity matters

Flat lay photos (items laid flat or hanging):

• Pros: Faster to shoot; shows garment details clearly; works well for accessories
• Cons: Lower engagement; harder to visualize fit; can look impersonal

Best practice: Use modeled photos for main image, include flat lay or measurement photos in slots 2-4.

Lighting and Background Tips:

• Natural light: Shoot near large windows during daytime (avoid direct harsh sunlight)
• Golden hour: Early morning or late afternoon light is soft and flattering
• Artificial alternatives: Ring lights ($30-$80) create flattering, even lighting
• Backgrounds: Plain white walls, light wood floors, or outdoor settings (brick walls, greenery)
• Avoid: Messy rooms, harsh overhead lighting, busy patterned backgrounds

First Photo Importance: Your first photo is everything. It appears in search results, the Explore page, and users’ feeds. It must stop scrolling.

First photo checklist:

• ✅ Full view of item (not cropped awkwardly)
• ✅ Item is the focal point (not the model’s face)
• ✅ Crisp focus (no blur)
• ✅ Properly lit (no dark shadows or overexposure)
• ✅ Styled appealingly (shows item’s best features)
• ✅ Consistent with shop aesthetic

Photo Editing for Depop (What Works): Light editing enhances photos; heavy editing misleads buyers.

Effective edits:

• Brightness/exposure: Slightly brighten (but don’t blow out whites)
• Contrast: Add subtle contrast for depth
• Saturation: Enhance colors slightly (avoid oversaturation)
• Straightening: Ensure photos are level
• Cropping: Center the item, remove distractions

Apps that work well:

• VSCO: Film-inspired filters that look natural
• Lightroom Mobile: Professional-grade editing controls
• Snapseed: Free, powerful editing tools
• Facetune: Remove minor background distractions (use sparingly)

What NOT to do: Over-filter, heavily Facetune the garment, misrepresent colors, use stock photos.

Real Examples of High-Performing Listings: Top Depop sellers share common photo traits:

• Consistent color grading across all listings (creates a “brand”)
• Mix of modeled shots and detail close-ups
• Clean, distraction-free compositions
• Multiple angles showing front, back, details, and styling options
• Honest representation of item condition

Study top sellers in your niche (@/vintedoll, @/shoprelics, @/y2karchive) and emulate their photography style while developing your unique aesthetic.

Writing Depop Titles & Descriptions

How you write titles and descriptions directly impacts search visibility and conversion rates. Depop’s search algorithm relies heavily on text matching, making keyword optimization crucial.

Keyword Optimization for Search: Depop’s search functions like a simplified Google: it matches keywords in your title and description to user search queries.

Title structure (maximum 80 characters): [Brand] [Item Type] [Style/Era] [Key Feature] [Size]

Examples:

• “Vintage Nike Hoodie Y2K Streetwear Blue Medium”
• “Levi’s 501 Mom Jeans High Waist 90s W28 L30”
• “Brandy Melville Baby Tee Pink Graphic OS Y2K”

Keyword priority: Brand > Item type > Style descriptor > Size

Hashtag Strategy (#depop #vintage #y2k): Unlike Instagram, Depop’s hashtag algorithm is limited. Use 4-5 relevant hashtags maximum.

Effective hashtag strategy:

• Broad category: #vintage, #y2k, #streetwear, #90sfashion
• Specific item: #vintagenike, #levis501, #bandtee
• Style tags: #grunge, #aesthetic, #cottagecore
• Avoid: #depop (redundant), #follow4follow (spam), generic #fashion

Place hashtags at the end of your description, not inline with readable text.

Measurements and Sizing Info: Gen Z buyers are size-conscious and sustainability-minded, meaning they need exact measurements before purchasing.

Essential measurements by category:

Tops: Pit-to-pit width, length (shoulder to hem), sleeve length

Bottoms: Waist, hips, inseam, rise

Dresses: Bust, waist, hips, length

Format example:

Measurements (laid flat):
• Pit-to-pit: 19"
• Length: 26"
• Sleeve: 22"

Fits like: Women's Medium / Men's Small
Model is 5'6" wearing size Medium

Condition Description Honesty: Accurate condition descriptions prevent returns and negative reviews. Be brutally honest about flaws.

Condition scale:

• Brand New With Tags (BNWT): Never worn, tags attached
• Excellent: Worn once or twice, no visible wear
• Good: Gently used, minor signs of wear
• Fair: Noticeable wear, flaws present (describe them)

Always mention:

• Stains, holes, tears, or damage (with photos)
• Missing buttons or zippers
• Fading or pilling
• Odors (smoke, pet, vintage smell)

Example: “Vintage 90s Nike hoodie in good condition with light pilling on sleeves and small ink mark on back hem (shown in photo 4). Reflects authentic vintage wear.”

Brand Name Capitalization: Properly capitalize brand names for search optimization: Nike (not NIKE or nike), Levi’s (not LEVIS), adidas (lowercase a).

Emojis and Formatting: Emojis add personality and break up text, making descriptions more scannable.

Effective emoji use:

• ✨ to highlight key features
• 📏 before measurements
• 🚫 for damage/flaws
• 💌 for shipping info
• 🌟 for special deals

Don’t overdo it: 3-5 emojis max. You’re selling clothing, not running a spam account.

Complete Description Template:

Vintage 1990s Nike Swoosh Hoodie in faded navy blue. Pure Y2K streetwear vibes ✨

Features:
• Embroidered Swoosh logo
• Heavyweight cotton blend
• Kangaroo pocket
• Ribbed cuffs & hem

📏 Measurements (laid flat):
Pit-to-pit: 21" | Length: 25" | Sleeve: 23"
Fits: Women's L / Men's M

Condition: Good vintage condition with light overall fading (adds to the vintage aesthetic). Small spot on left sleeve (see photo 3).

🚫 No trades | 💌 Ships within 24hrs | Bundle discounts available!

#vintage #nike #y2k #90s #streetwear

The key is being descriptive, honest, and keyword-rich without sounding robotic. Write how you’d text a friend about a cool find.

Pricing Strategy for Depop

Depop buyers are willing to pay premium prices for curated vintage and on-trend items—but pricing too high or too low both kill sales.

Premium Positioning (Why Depop Buyers Pay More): Depop isn’t a bargain-hunting platform. Buyers come for:

• Curation: You’ve done the sourcing work
• Aesthetics: Items fit current trends (Y2K, cottagecore, dark academia)
• Sustainability: Secondhand shopping as an ethical choice
• Uniqueness: One-of-a-kind vintage finds

This means you can (and should) price 20-40% higher than on Mercari or eBay for the same item. A vintage band tee that sells for $20 on eBay can easily fetch $40-$60 on Depop if styled and photographed well.

Research Sold Listings for Comps: Before pricing anything, research comparable sold items on Depop.

How to research:

1. Search for the exact brand and item type (e.g., “Vintage Nike hoodie”)
2. Filter by “Sold” items (tap search, then filter icon)
3. Note price ranges for similar condition and style
4. Price yours competitively within that range

Pay attention to:

• Size (larger sizes often sell for less)
• Condition (excellent commands 30% more than fair)
• Era (90s Y2K premium over 2000s)
• Brand specificity (Nike Swoosh hoodie vs. generic Nike)

Pricing Psychology for Gen Z: Gen Z Depop buyers respond to specific pricing psychology:

• Odd pricing: $34 feels significantly cheaper than $35 (even though it’s $1 difference)
• Avoid round numbers: $40 feels corporate; $38 or $42 feels curated
• Bundle discounts: “3 for $100” or “20% off bundles” encourages multi-item purchases
• Strike-through pricing: Show original thrift price ($5) crossed out next to your price ($45) to demonstrate value-add

When to Use “Make Offer”: Depop’s “Make an Offer” feature lets buyers submit offers (you can accept, counter, or decline).

Enable “Make Offer” for:

• Items priced over $60 (buyers expect negotiation at higher price points)
• Slow-moving inventory (items listed 30+ days)
• End-of-season items you want to move

Disable “Make Offer” for:

• Already competitively priced items under $40
• High-demand, fast-selling items
• New listings (give them time at full price first)

Offer etiquette: Respond to all offers within 24 hours. Counter lowball offers with your lowest acceptable price. Accept reasonable offers quickly (within 80-90% of asking price).

Bundle Deals Strategy: Bundles increase average order value and reduce per-item shipping costs for buyers.

Effective bundle strategies:

• 3 for 2: Buy 3 items, get the cheapest free
• Percentage discount: 10% off 2 items, 20% off 3+
• Free shipping: Bundles over $75 ship free
• Mystery bundles: “3-item vintage tee bundle $60” (you curate based on buyer’s style)

Advertise bundle deals in your bio and create a pinned shop policies listing explaining the discount structure.

💡 Price with Confidence: Use Underpriced’s sold comps database to see exactly what similar vintage and Y2K items have sold for across Depop, eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari. Price based on real market data, not guesswork.

Building a Following on Depop

Depop is a social platform first, marketplace second. Building a following drives algorithmic visibility, repeat customers, and higher sales.

Consistent Shop Aesthetic Importance: Your shop should look like a curated Instagram feed. When someone clicks your profile, they should immediately understand your brand.

How to create cohesive aesthetics:

• Consistent photo style: Same lighting, backgrounds, editing filters
• Niche focus: Specialize in one era (90s vintage), style (grunge), or category (streetwear)
• Color story: Use complementary colors across listings (warm tones, pastels, moody darks)
• Grid layout: Arrange items so your shop grid looks intentional (check how it appears on your profile)

Study successful shops: Vintage sellers like @shoprelics maintain strict color palettes and styling. Streetwear shops like @rarevintagearchive focus exclusively on hyped brands.

Engaging with Community (Likes, Comments): Depop rewards active community participation. Accounts that engage with others receive better algorithmic treatment.

Daily engagement checklist:

• Like 50-100 items from sellers in your niche or potential buyers
• Leave 5-10 genuine comments on items you actually like (“Love the Y2K vibes! 💙”)
• Respond to all comments on your listings within 24 hours
• Thank buyers in reviews after purchases complete

Why this works: When you like someone’s item, they receive a notification. Curious, they check your profile. If your aesthetic matches their style, they follow. Even a 5% conversion from likes to profile visits to follows compounds over time.

Following Other Sellers Strategically: Follow other sellers to build visibility and community connections.

Who to follow:

• Sellers in complementary niches (vintage jewelry if you sell vintage clothing)
• Sellers with similar aesthetics (not direct competitors, but adjacent)
• Potential buyers whose style matches what you sell
• Depop influencers and featured sellers

Don’t: Mass follow/unfollow (it’s spammy and hurts your reputation). Follow genuinely, not as a growth hack.

Cross-Promotion to Instagram/TikTok: Depop exists in the Gen Z ecosystem of Instagram and TikTok. Cross-promoting drives external traffic to your shop.

Instagram strategy:

• Create a separate IG for your shop (@yourshopname)
• Post new arrivals, restocks, sold items, behind-the-scenes sourcing
• Use Instagram Stories to showcase items with “Swipe up to shop on Depop” links
• Engage with vintage/Y2K communities using hashtags (#y2kfashion, #vintageseller)

TikTok strategy:

• “Come thrift with me” videos showing your sourcing trips
• “Try-on hauls” modeling your Depop listings
• “Depop seller tips” content (establishes you as an authority)
• Use trending sounds with vintage fashion overlays

Include your Depop shop link in your IG/TikTok bio. Even 100 followers on TikTok can drive meaningful traffic if your content goes viral.

Growing Organically vs Paid Promotion: Depop offers paid promotion features (boost listings for $5-$50 per campaign), but organic growth is more sustainable for most sellers.

Organic growth tactics:

• Consistent listing schedule (5-10 new items weekly)
• High engagement with the community daily
• Excellent customer service (fast shipping, great packaging, personalized notes)
• Reviews and word-of-mouth from happy buyers

When to use paid promotion:

• Launching a new shop (boost your first 10 listings to gain traction)
• High-value items ($150+) where extra visibility justifies cost
• Seasonal promotions (boosting winter coats in October)

Don’t: Rely on paid ads as your primary growth strategy. Build organic engagement first.

Creating Shop Announcements: Pin a “shop announcement” listing at the top of your profile with:

• Current sales or promotions (“20% off bundles this week!”)
• Shipping updates (“Shipping delayed Feb 10-12, orders resume Feb 13”)
• Shop policies (returns, measurements, bundle discounts)
• Personal brand story (“Hi! I’m Sarah, curating 90s vintage since 2023…”)

Update announcements weekly to keep your shop feeling active and fresh. This also signals to the algorithm that you’re an engaged seller.

Depop Shipping & Fulfillment

Fast, reliable shipping with branded packaging creates repeat buyers and positive reviews.

Shipping Label Options (Depop Shipping vs Own): Depop offers integrated shipping labels or you can use your own.

Depop Shipping (via USPS):

• Pros: Automatic tracking, buyer protection, one-click label purchase, mobile-friendly
• Cons: Slightly more expensive than commercial rates for some weights, limited to USPS
• Cost: $4.75 (under 4oz), $6.30 (under 8oz), $8.00 (under 16oz), $11.50 (1-3 lbs)

Your own labels (Pirate Ship, PayPal, etc.):

• Pros: Often cheaper for heavier items, can use UPS/FedEx, more control
• Cons: Requires manual tracking number entry, more setup time
• Best for: High-volume sellers, items over 1 lb, sellers with commercial shipping accounts

Recommendation: Start with Depop Shipping for simplicity. Once you’re shipping 20+ items/month, explore Pirate Ship or PayPal shipping for cost savings.

Packaging for Brand Experience: Your packaging is a physical representation of your brand. Gen Z buyers share unboxing experiences on Instagram and TikTok.

Minimum packaging:

• Poly mailers (10x13" for most clothing)
• Tissue paper wrap (adds polish)
• Thank you card with Instagram handle

Elevated packaging (for premium positioning):

• Branded poly mailers or custom stamps
• Stickers with your shop logo/aesthetic
• Small freebies (stickers, candy, sample items)
• Handwritten notes (“Thanks for supporting sustainable fashion! - Sarah 💚”)

Cost: Budget $0.50-$2.00 per package. This investment pays off in repeat customers and positive reviews.

Speed Expectations: Gen Z buyers expect fast shipping. Slow shipping tanks your reviews.

Target timelines:

• Processing: Ship within 1-2 business days (ideally same-day or next-day)
• Delivery: 3-5 business days via USPS Priority or First Class
• Communication: Send tracking number immediately after shipping

Pro tip: If you can’t ship within 2 days, message the buyer immediately with an updated timeline. Communication prevents negative reviews.

International Shipping Considerations: Depop has global users, but international shipping requires careful consideration.

Pros of international shipping:

• Access to buyers in UK, Europe, Australia (large Depop markets)
• Premium pricing potential (less competition for certain brands abroad)

Cons:

• Higher shipping costs ($15-$40 for clothing)
• Customs forms and delays
• Potential import duties (buyer pays, but causes friction)
• Higher return/lost package rates

Best practice: Enable international shipping only if you’re willing to factor it into pricing. Charge actual shipping costs (don’t subsidize). Clearly state “buyer responsible for customs fees” in description.

Handling Returns and Refunds: Depop’s buyer protection program means you must handle disputes professionally.

Common return scenarios:

• Item not as described: If the buyer can prove misrepresentation, Depop may require a refund. Avoid this with accurate photos and descriptions.
• Doesn’t fit: Most vintage sellers have “no returns for fit” policies (clearly state this).
• Damaged in shipping: If you didn’t package well, this is your responsibility.

Best practices:

• Accept returns for legitimate issues (damage, major misdescription)
• Require buyer to ship back for refund (provide return label if your fault)
• Respond to disputes within 24 hours to avoid escalation
• Maintain professionalism even with difficult buyers (your response is visible)

A clear shop policy prevents 90% of disputes. State your return policy in your bio and shop announcement listing.

Depop vs Other Platforms

Depop isn’t the only resale platform. Understanding how it compares helps you decide where to list—or whether to crosslist.

Depop vs Poshmark (Audience Differences):

When to choose Depop: Vintage/Y2K fashion, streetwear, Gen Z brands, you enjoy photography and aesthetics.

When to choose Poshmark: Contemporary designer brands, women’s professional wear, higher price points, you want simpler photography standards.

Depop vs Mercari (Fee and Buyer Comparison):

When to crosslist to Mercari: Items that didn’t sell on Depop, lower price points, non-fashion categories, when you want broader reach.

Depop vs Vinted (US Market Analysis): Vinted (0% seller fees, buyers pay service charges) is growing in Europe but has limited US traction as of 2026.

Depop advantages over Vinted in US:

• Far larger US user base (35M vs ~2M)
• Better seller tools and analytics
• Established brand recognition
• Premium pricing potential

Vinted advantages:

• Zero seller fees (100% of sale price is yours)
• Growing in sustainability-conscious markets

Verdict: In the US, Depop remains the dominant vintage fashion platform. Vinted is worth watching but not yet a primary sales channel for US-based resellers.

When to Crosslist vs Depop-Exclusive:

Depop-exclusive makes sense for:

• Items requiring aesthetic photography (the effort isn’t worth duplicating)
• High-engagement items that sell fast on Depop
• When you’re building a Depop brand identity

Crosslist to multiple platforms when:

• Items haven’t sold on Depop after 30 days
• Higher-priced items ($100+) benefit from broader exposure
• You have inventory volume (100+ items) and can manage multiple platforms
• Items appeal to different demographics (list contemporary brands on Poshmark, vintage on Depop)

Tools for crosslisting: List Perfectly, Vendoo, and Crosslist allow you to list on Depop, Poshmark, Mercari, and eBay simultaneously. Worth considering when you hit 50+ items.

Sourcing for Depop Success

What you sell determines your success. Sourcing the right inventory is the foundation of a profitable Depop business.

Thrift Store Vintage Hunting: Thrift stores are the primary sourcing channel for Depop sellers.

Best thrift store types:

• Goodwill: High volume, inconsistent quality, good for basics and brands
• Salvation Army: Often cheaper than Goodwill, more digging required
• Savers/Value Village: Higher prices but better curation
• Local independent thrifts: Hidden gems, build relationships with staff
• Church/charity shops: Underpriced, often older vintage

When to thrift: Weekday mornings (fresh stock, less competition), Mondays after weekend donations.

Estate Sales for Y2K Goldmines: Estate sales (especially from people who were teens/20s in the 90s-2000s) are treasure troves for Y2K fashion.

How to find estate sales:

• EstateSales.net (search by zip code)
• Local Facebook groups
• Estate sale companies’ email lists

Best days: Last day of sale (50-75% off everything), but picked over. First day for premium finds at full price.

What to look for: Original tags, minimal wear, trendy brands, unique graphics, styles currently trending on Depop.

What to Look For (Brands, Styles, Eras):

Eras:

• 1990s: Peak demand (grunge, minimalism, early streetwear)
• Early 2000s (Y2K): Massive trend (low-rise, baby tees, logo mania)
• 1980s vintage: Niche but valuable (oversized blazers, bold graphics)
• 1970s: Limited Depop demand unless exceptional (boho, vintage denim)

Styles to prioritize:

• Graphic tees with band logos, sports teams, tourist destinations
• Oversized vintage sweatshirts and hoodies (can be reworked/cropped)
• High-waisted mom jeans and wide-leg denim
• Slip dresses, baby tees, mini skirts
• Vintage sportswear (track jackets, windbreakers, athletic wear)

Brand checklist for sourcing:

• ✅ Levi’s, Wrangler, Lee
• ✅ Nike, Adidas, Champion, Reebok
• ✅ Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, Nautica
• ✅ Carhartt, Dickies, Patagonia
• ✅ Vintage band/sports tees (any brand)
• ✅ Urban Outfitters, Brandy Melville, Free People (early 2000s)

Condition Requirements for Depop Buyers: Depop buyers are pickier than eBay buyers. Condition matters.

Acceptable:

• Light vintage wear (fading, minor pilling)
• Small imperfections if disclosed and priced accordingly
• “Vintage smell” (can be washed/aired out)

Avoid:

• Major stains or holes (unless rare/high-value)
• Excessive pilling or fabric damage
• Broken zippers that can’t be repaired
• Heavy smoke or pet odors
• Stretched-out necklines or hems

Rule of thumb: Would you wear it yourself? If not, don’t buy it to resell. Your reputation depends on quality curation.

Common Depop Mistakes

Even experienced resellers make mistakes when starting on Depop. Avoid these common pitfalls.

Poor Photography Killing Sales: The #1 mistake: bad photos. Blurry images, harsh shadows, messy backgrounds, and unflattering angles make buyers scroll past.

Fixes:

• Invest in a $30 ring light and phone tripod
• Shoot near windows during daytime
• Use consistent backgrounds across listings
• Edit photos for brightness and consistency

Overpricing or Underpricing: New sellers either overprice (no sales) or underprice (leave money on the table).

Overpricing symptoms: Lots of views, no likes or messages. Items sit for 30+ days.

Underpricing symptoms: Items sell within hours of listing, buyers immediately accept your prices without negotiation.

Fix: Research sold comps religiously. Price within market range, not based on what you paid at the thrift store or your perceived value.

Inconsistent Shop Aesthetic: Selling random items without a cohesive theme confuses potential followers and dilutes your brand.

Mistake: Listing vintage band tees, designer handbags, modern fast fashion, and home decor in the same shop.

Fix: Niche down. Specialize in one category (vintage 90s), one style (grunge), or one demographic (women’s Y2K). Build a recognizable brand.

Ignoring Community Engagement: Treating Depop like eBay (list and forget) tanks your algorithmic ranking.

Mistake: Listing items then never logging back in, ignoring likes and comments, not following other sellers.

Fix: Spend 15-20 minutes daily engaging (liking, commenting, following). Respond to all comments and messages within 24 hours.

Not Refreshing Listings: Items that don’t sell within 7-10 days drop in search rankings and become invisible.

Mistake: Letting listings sit stagnant for months.

Fix: Refresh slow-moving items every 3-4 days by editing and saving or deleting and relisting. Keep your shop “fresh” algorithmically.

Bonus mistakes:

• Incomplete descriptions (missing measurements, condition, brand)
• Slow shipping (waiting 3-5 days to ship orders)
• Poor packaging (items arrive wrinkled or damaged)
• Ignoring buyer messages (losing sales to responsive competitors)
• Not reading Depop’s policies (getting items removed or account flagged)

Scaling Your Depop Business

Once you’ve mastered the basics and have consistent sales, scaling requires systems and strategic decisions.

Inventory Management for Volume: Managing 100+ listings requires organization.

Systems that work:

• Spreadsheet tracking: Item title, purchase price, listed price, date listed, status (active/sold)
• Photo organization: Folders by month or category (e.g., “Jan2026_VintageTees”)
• Physical inventory: Clear bins labeled by category, SKU tags on items
• Depop drafts: Prepare 10-15 draft listings in advance, publish daily

Time-Saving Listing Tips: Batch your listing process for efficiency.

Batching strategy:

1. Photo day: Shoot 20-30 items in one session (same lighting setup)
2. Editing day: Edit all photos at once with consistent presets
3. Writing day: Write all titles/descriptions using templates
4. Listing day: Upload and publish all at once or schedule over the week

This is 10x faster than photographing, editing, writing, and listing each item individually.

When to Expand to Multi-Platform: Crosslisting makes sense once you have:

• 50+ active listings
• Consistent sales on Depop (5-10 items/week)
• Systems for managing inventory
• 10+ hours/week for additional platform management

Platforms to add: Poshmark (for contemporary brands), Mercari (for broader reach), eBay (for higher-value vintage).

Building a Recognizable Brand: Top Depop sellers are brands, not just shops.

Brand elements:

• Memorable shop name: Short, searchable, niche-specific
• Consistent aesthetic: Color palette, photography style, item curation
• Social presence: Instagram and TikTok with same branding
• Customer experience: Branded packaging, personalized notes, fast shipping
• Niche expertise: Known for something specific (“the 90s sportswear expert” or “Y2K baby tee queen”)

Once you have 1,000+ followers and 100+ reviews, you’re a recognizable brand. This allows you to:

• Charge premium prices (buyers trust your curation)
• Launch exclusive drops (announce new inventory, sell out quickly)
• Build repeat customers (DM regulars when you get items in their size)
• Potentially wholesale to boutiques or collaborate with brands

Real Depop Seller Case Studies

Understanding how real sellers succeed provides actionable blueprints.

Case Study 1: Vintage Seller - $3K/Month Profile

Seller: @VintageByAmy (anonymized) Niche: 90s vintage sportswear and graphic tees Monthly revenue: $3,200 Items sold: 45-55/month Average item price: $58

Strategy:

• Sources exclusively from estate sales and Goodwill bins
• Lists 10 new items every week (consistent fresh inventory)
• Photography: Natural light modeled shots with white wall background
• Engagement: Spends 30 minutes daily liking and commenting
• Cross-promotes on TikTok with “thrift haul” videos (15K followers)

Key success factor: Consistent aesthetic (all photos have the same warm filter) and niche expertise (only sells authenticated vintage sportswear, no modern items).

Case Study 2: Streetwear Flipper Success Story

Seller: @ArchiveApparel (anonymized) Niche: Hyped streetwear and limited sneakers Monthly revenue: $8,500 Items sold: 30-40/month Average item price: $215

Strategy:

• Sources from consignment shops, online auctions, and retail flips (buying limited drops)
• Higher price point, lower volume model
• Photography: Professional setup with ring light, clean backgrounds, multiple angles
• Engagement: Active in streetwear communities, builds trust through authentication expertise
• Crosslists to eBay and GOAT for broader reach

Key success factor: Specialization in authentication (buyers trust him with high-value items) and exceptional photography that justifies premium pricing.

FAQ Section

How long does Depop payout take? Depop Payments typically takes 10 business days after the buyer receives the item (tracking confirms delivery). Top sellers with strong track records may receive faster processing. PayPal payments (legacy sellers only) arrive instantly but still require 10-day hold before transfer to bank.

Can you sell new items on Depop? Yes, you can sell new items with tags (BNWT) on Depop. However, the platform’s culture favors vintage and secondhand. If selling new items, focus on trendy brands (Brandy Melville, Urban Outfitters) or deadstock vintage (new old stock from the 90s-2000s). Mass-produced fast fashion performs poorly.

How do I get featured on Explore? The Explore page features items based on quality, engagement, and algorithmic signals. To increase chances: use all 4 photo slots with high-quality images, complete all listing fields, receive early engagement (likes/saves within the first few hours), maintain a strong seller rating, and stay active daily. There’s no guaranteed formula, but consistent quality eventually gets noticed.

What’s better: Depop or Poshmark? It depends on what you sell and your target audience. Choose Depop for: vintage/Y2K fashion, streetwear, Gen Z buyers, Instagram-style aesthetics, items under $100. Choose Poshmark for: contemporary designer brands, professional/career wear, Millennial buyers, higher price points ($100-$500), simpler listing requirements. Many successful sellers use both platforms strategically.

Start Your Depop Journey Today

Depop represents one of the most exciting opportunities in resale for sellers who understand visual branding, Gen Z culture, and vintage fashion trends. The platform rewards curation, authenticity, and community engagement—skills that translate to long-term sustainable income.

Success on Depop isn’t about gaming the algorithm or finding secret hacks. It’s about consistently listing quality items, photographing them beautifully, engaging authentically with the community, and shipping fast. Master these fundamentals, and you’ll build a profitable vintage business that resonates with the 35 million+ Depop buyers searching for their next Y2K find.

Whether you’re sourcing your first thrift haul or scaling to 100+ listings, the strategies in this guide provide the roadmap. Now it’s time to execute: download the app, create your aesthetic, list your first item, and join the Depop seller community.

The vintage fashion resale market continues to grow as Gen Z prioritizes sustainability and individual style over fast fashion. Depop is where that movement lives—and where smart resellers are building businesses.

Ready to compare Depop to other platforms and maximize your resale profits? Try Underpriced for free to research sold comps, compare fees across platforms, and identify trending items before you source. Smart resellers use data—start making data-driven decisions today.