Depop. If you want to join the vibrant global fashion marketplace and make real money decluttering your closet or scoring unique style pieces, Depop is the go-to platform of 2025.
Depop is Gen Z’s favorite resale app It combines the viral power of social media with the convenience of e-commerce—making it not only possible but easy for anyone to become a sustainable seller or savvy shopper.
Selling (and shopping) on Depop blends entrepreneurial energy with ethical, sustainable style.
Using high-quality photos, clear SEO-driven descriptions, fair pricing (with fees in mind), prompt shipping, and PayPal’s proven security, it works.
As Depop grows, the sellers who master transparency, community, and a polished, personal shop will truly thrive.
Here’s your ultimate guide to buying and selling on Depop, packed with expert insider tips on using PayPal, photographing garments, valuing your item, shipping, and more.
1. Getting Started: Setting Up for Success
Before selling your first item, you’ll need to set up your Depop profile and connect a verified PayPal account. PayPal remains the backbone of global Depop payments: it’s how you receive sales proceeds (and also keeps both parties protected in case of refund issues or disputes).
Simply tap into your Depop account settings, select “PayPal,” and log in with your PayPal credentials to link accounts. New sellers should ensure their PayPal is business-verified to avoid payment holds, and double-check all account info is current for smooth transactions.
2. Listing Your Garment: The Power of Presentation
Photography is everything on Depop. High-quality, authentic visuals grab attention in a crowded marketplace. Here’s how to shoot for success:
- Lighting: Use natural daylight wherever possible for clear, true-to-color shots. Avoid harsh unfiltered overhead lights.
- Backdrop: Present items against a neat, neutral backdrop; a blank wall, door, or lightly colored sheet works best. Consistency in your backdrop across posts builds trust and makes your shop look pro.
- Angles and Detail: Upload at least 4–5 sharp images: front, back, close-up of tags and labels, and any flaws or cool details. Show the item worn if comfortable (try mirror selfies or flat-lays modeled). Videos can help showcase flow and fit.
- Editing: Crop images square (1:1 ratio) and gently adjust brightness or contrast as required. Never over-edit—shoppers crave transparency and will spot fake gloss immediately.
3. Crafting Descriptions: SEO and Buyer Trust
Depop’s search is powered by keywords, so:
- Describe your item clearly, accurately, and honestly.
- Use searchable tags like “Y2K,” “vintage,” “streetwear,” brand names, and popular categories.
- Note sizing (including measurements in cm/inches), fabric, tags, and any unique details.
- Be upfront about flaws—transparency leads to glowing reviews and repeat buyers.
- Finish with shipping and sustainability info, especially if you upcycle, repair, or source consciously.
4. Setting the Right Price: Research, Fees, and Profit
Pricing on Depop requires balance. Start by searching for recent sales of similar items—factor in brand, rarity, quality, and demand (trending categories or brands will fetch more).
- Depop Fee: There’s a 10% sale commission, plus PayPal or Depop Payment processing fees—typically around 2.9–3.5% + $0.30, so always include fees when working out your profit margin.
- Shipping: Decide if you’ll offer free shipping or add a shipping fee. Free shipping attracts buyers, but be sure to embed the cost into your price to keep your margins healthy.
- Start slightly higher and be open to offers—savvy Depop shoppers often haggle, so pad your price for wiggle room.
5. Making That Sale: Negotiation and Payment
- Always communicate with potential buyers through Depop’s messaging system. Respond promptly, answer questions, and never finalise any deals off-platform—that’s how PayPal/Depop protection works if there’s an issue.
- Payment happens instantly through PayPal (or Depop Payments for UK/US), and you’ll see pending funds in your PayPal balance after a sale.
6. Packing and Shipping: Impress and Protect
- Ship within 1–2 business days—quick shipping boosts reviews and search ranking.
- Reuse sustainable packaging when you can (branded tissue, recycled boxes), but ensure garments are secure, folded, and weather-protected.
- Always ship to the address on the Depop receipt/payments page for PayPal seller protection.
- Use tracked shipping for higher-priced items or international sales—add the tracking number to the Depop app so both parties are updated.
7. Growing and Marketing Your Shop
- Engage with the Depop community: follow other sellers, share listings on Instagram, use hashtags, and update your bio with a personal touch.
- Post frequently and relist unsold items to the top of feeds.
- Ask for feedback and reviews—they help build your reputation and encourage new buyers to trust you.
8. Extra Tips for Buyers
- Check seller rating and reviews before purchasing.
- Always use Depop’s payment system (PayPal/Depop Pay) for protection.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for extra photos or details—good sellers will oblige.
