Key Takeaways
Choose Poshmark if you want:
- Reliable basics and professional wear with structured shopping, robust filtering, and predictable shipping
- Mainstream brands and designer items from mall brands to luxury with consistent quality standards
- Built-in buyer protection and standardized processes for worry-free shopping
Choose Depop if you want:
- Vintage finds and unique pieces with creative discovery, trend-driven browsing, and one-of-a-kind items
- Style exploration and aesthetic browsing through hashtags, style tags, and curated creator shops
- Personal connections and creative community with younger, trend-focused fashion enthusiasts
Use both platforms strategically:
- Poshmark for wardrobe staples and specific brand/size needs
- Depop for style inspiration and unique, creative pieces
- Maximum selection and deals by leveraging each platform's strengths
Platform Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Poshmark | Depop |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Specific searches, reliable basics, professional wear | Style discovery, vintage finds, unique pieces |
| User Base | Millennials, Gen X, professionals | 90% under 26, Gen Z dominant |
| Discovery | Structured filters and brand pages | Aesthetic browsing and hashtags |
| Shipping | Flat-rate, predictable | Variable, seller-determined |
| Buyer Protection | Posh Protect built-in | Depop Protection (in-app payments) |
| Return Window | 3 days after delivery | 30 days after purchase |
| International | Limited (4 countries) | Extensive (150+ countries) |
| Community | Professional, structured | Creative, personal, trend-focused |
What You'll Find on Each Platform
Poshmark: Structured Marketplace
- Wide range: Mall brands (Target, H&M) to luxury (Chanel, Gucci)
- Strong filtering: Search by brand, size, condition, and price
- Professional sellers: Many established resellers with consistent inventory
- New-with-tags common: Recent season items at discounted prices
Depop: Creative Discovery
- Vintage focus: 70s-90s pieces, Y2K aesthetic, streetwear
- Unique items: Reworked clothing, handmade accessories, custom pieces
- Trend-driven: Browse by aesthetic hashtags and style tags
- One-of-a-kind: Items you won't find elsewhere
Bottom Line: Poshmark for specific needs, Depop for style discovery.
Pricing and Costs
Pricing Comparison Table
| Item Type | Poshmark | Depop | Best Choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mall Brands | 30-60% off retail | 30-70% off retail | Depop |
| Designer | 60-85% off retail | 60-85% off retail | Tie |
| Vintage | Limited selection | $15-200+ | Depop |
| Shipping | flat rate | Variable ($5-15) | Poshmark (predictable) |
Total Cost Breakdown
Poshmark: Item price + shipping + tax Depop: Item price + variable shipping + tax (+ potential duties for international)
Money-Saving Tips
- Poshmark: Like items for automatic price drops, bundle from same seller
- Depop: Message sellers for deals, follow for exclusive access
- Both: Compare prices across platforms, set up saved searches
Buyer Protection & Returns
Protection Comparison
| Feature | Poshmark | Depop |
|---|---|---|
| Return Window | 3 days after delivery | 30 days after purchase |
| Return Shipping | Free (platform covers) | Buyer pays |
| Dispute Process | Automatic platform handling | Seller resolution first |
| Coverage | Not as described, damaged | Not as described, not received |
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
- Document with photos immediately
- Contact seller within required timeframe
- Use platform protection if seller unresponsive
- Keep all packaging for potential returns
Key Rule: Always pay in-app to maintain protection.
Shopping Smart: Essential Tips
Getting Started
- Start with familiar brands you know the sizing
- Check seller ratings (look for 4.5+ stars)
- Ask for measurements on anything you're unsure about
- Begin with lower-priced items to build confidence
Red Flags to Avoid
- Stock photos only (no real item photos)
- Sellers with no feedback or ratings
- Prices too good to be true on designer items
- Requests to communicate off-platform
- Poor quality photos or vague descriptions
Communication Templates
Measurement request: "Hi! Could you please provide bust, waist, and length measurements? I'm a size [X] in [brand]. Thank you!"
Bundle inquiry: "Hi! I'm interested in [items]. Would you consider a bundle deal?"
Making Offers
- Research similar items first
- Offer 10-20% below asking as starting point
- Be polite and specific about your reasoning
- Don't lowball (50%+ off asking price)
Sizing and International Shopping
Sizing Essentials
- Request measurements for anything you're unsure about
- Vintage runs small: Often 1-2 sizes smaller than modern
- International sizing differs: European/Asian sizing varies from US
- Build a size database: Track what works in different brands
International Shopping
Poshmark: Limited to US, Canada, Australia, India Depop: Available in 150+ countries
Consider international when:
- Item unavailable locally
- Significant cost savings
- Authentic items from country of origin
Avoid international when:
- Time-sensitive purchases
- High-value items (higher risk)
- Unfamiliar with seller
Platform Decision Guide
Choose Poshmark When:
- Shopping for specific brands or sizes
- Need professional/work clothing
- Want predictable shipping and protection
- Building wardrobe basics
- Shopping for special occasions
Choose Depop When:
- Looking for vintage or unique pieces
- Want to explore new styles
- Interested in trend-driven fashion
- Building a creative wardrobe
- Comfortable with style experimentation
Use Both When:
- Want maximum selection
- Need both basics and statement pieces
- Enjoy different shopping experiences
- Want to compare prices across platforms
Safety Checklist
Before You Buy:
- Seller has good ratings and recent activity
- Photos show the actual item (not stock photos)
- Description includes measurements and condition details
- Shipping costs and timeline are acceptable
- Total cost (including shipping/taxes) fits your budget
After You Buy:
- Track your package
- Inspect item immediately upon arrival
- Accept delivery within required timeframe
- Leave honest feedback for other buyers
- Build relationships with good sellers
Quick Start Guide
First-Time Buyers:
- Download both apps and create accounts
- Start with Poshmark for easier, structured shopping
- Set up saved searches for items you want
- Follow brands and sellers you're interested in
- Make your first purchase under $50 to learn the process
Building Your Strategy:
- Use Poshmark for specific needs and reliable basics
- Use Depop for inspiration and unique finds
- Compare prices between platforms
- Build seller relationships for better deals
- Share your finds and learn from the community
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which platform has better prices? A: Depop generally offers better prices, especially for vintage and trendy items. Poshmark has more consistent pricing and predictable shipping.
Q: Which has better buyer protection? A: Poshmark offers more comprehensive protection with free return shipping and automatic dispute resolution. Depop has good protection but requires more buyer involvement.
Q: Can I return items if they don't fit? A: Both platforms only accept returns if items are "not as described." Size issues are generally not covered unless measurements were significantly wrong.
Q: How do I know if an item is authentic? A: Check seller ratings, ask for detailed photos, request proof of authenticity for designer items, and trust your instincts.
Q: Should I use both platforms? A: Yes! Use Poshmark for specific needs and Depop for discovery. This gives you access to the best selection and deals.
Bottom Line
Poshmark = Reliable, structured, great for basics and professional wear Depop = Creative, trendy, perfect for vintage and unique pieces
Both platforms offer excellent secondhand shopping experiences. Choose based on your shopping style, or better yet, use both strategically to build a wardrobe you love while saving money and supporting sustainable fashion.
Start with the platform that matches your current needs, then expand to both as you build confidence and experience.
Always verify current policies and fees directly with each platform before purchasing. Happy shopping!
