Why August Is the Smartest Time to Consign Your Summer Wardrobe
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As the summer winds down and fall fashion starts to roll in, August becomes the perfect moment for something savvy and strategic: consigning your summer wardrobe. For fashion-conscious shoppers and closet minimalists alike, this month isn’t just about back-to-school sales or pre-fall arrivals—it’s about making space, earning cash, and giving your gently-loved pieces a new life.
At High Society Resale Boutique, we help our clients take full advantage of this transition period. Whether you’re a seasoned consignor or completely new to resale, here’s why August is hands-down the smartest time of year to consign your summer items—and exactly how to do it for the best results.
Why August? The Timing Is Everything
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a “best time” to consign your clothes, the answer is yes—and it’s now. Here’s why:
1. Demand is Still High
Shoppers are still buying summer items in August—especially in warmer climates or for last-minute vacations. Think designer sandals, maxi dresses, crop tops, swimsuits, and accessories. People love a deal right before the season ends, and resale shoppers are no exception.
2. Consignment Prep for Fall
As we head into fall, boutiques like High Society begin rotating inventory. To make room for cozy knits and autumn bags, we prioritize processing summer consignments before the seasonal switch fully hits.
3. Closet Cleanouts Begin Now
Back-to-school and back-to-routine vibes hit in late summer, and with it comes the urge to organize. That means you’re already in the mindset to clean out, declutter, and reset your wardrobe. Why not turn that effort into earnings?
What You Should Consign in August
Not everything has to go, but there are specific categories that perform especially well right now.
Top Items to Consign:
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Gently worn designer sandals or slides
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Summer dresses (especially linen, floral, or tiered styles)
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Branded or trendy swimwear
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Straw bags, totes, and woven accessories
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Lightweight blouses, tanks, and matching sets
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Summer denim—think shorts, distressed jeans, or mini skirts
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Neutral-toned sunglasses or hats
Bonus Tip:
Label recognition helps. Brands like Free People, Zimmerman, Farm Rio, Reformation, Gucci, and Tory Burch tend to move fast when priced right.
What NOT to Consign Just Yet:
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Heavy sweaters or coats (wait until September)
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Holiday glam (save for November)
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Boots and leather outerwear (late August or early September is better)
Make Room for Fall Fashion
One of the biggest benefits of consigning now is that it frees up closet space for the good stuff—new fall arrivals. August is when pre-fall trends hit the shelves, and you’ll want space to store those cozy cardigans, midi skirts, and transitional jackets.
Plus, if you consign early, you can use your payout or store credit to scoop up the newest fall pieces as they hit our racks.
How to Get the Best Consignment Value
If you want your items to sell quickly and profitably, follow these insider tips:
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Only Bring Items in Great Condition
Clothing should be clean, wrinkle-free, and free of major wear. Make sure zippers work, buttons are intact, and items are free from stains or pilling. -
Bring Designer and Recognizable Labels
We specialize in curated, upscale resale. Think high-end department store brands and boutique labels. If it’s something you originally paid good money for, there’s a good chance it’s resale-worthy. -
Keep it Seasonal
August is still summer in Arizona (and much of the country), so light and breathable fabrics will sell better now than chunky sweaters or boots. -
Don’t Wait Until September
By September, customers shift their focus entirely to fall. That means your summer consignments will sit longer—or risk being discounted.
What Happens After You Drop Off?
At High Society, consigning is simple. Here’s how it works:
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You bring your clean, curated summer pieces into the shop (or schedule a drop-off).
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Our team reviews the items and selects what we know will sell.
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We price each item based on brand, condition, and current resale trends.
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Once your items sell, you receive a payout (or store credit if you prefer).
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Unsold items are either returned to you or donated, depending on your preference.
It’s hassle-free, environmentally friendly, and a great way to give your wardrobe (and wallet) a refresh.
Don’t Forget About Accessories
Accessories are some of the best-performing categories during August! Many customers use August to prep for Labor Day vacations, travel, or weddings.
Quick wins to consign now:
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Summer-themed jewelry (shells, pearls, beaded)
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Designer sunglasses
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Straw, canvas, or light-colored handbags
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Sandals and espadrilles in gently-worn condition
Turn Your Closet Into Cash
On average, our consignors earn significantly more than if they tried to sell items on their own apps or marketplaces. That’s because we take care of photography, display, merchandising, and marketing—meaning your items sell faster and to a more fashion-focused audience.
Here’s a breakdown:
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One good-condition Reformation dress = $50–$80 payout
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Designer sandals = $30–$70 payout
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Gently used designer crossbody bag = $100+ payout
All from pieces you weren’t even wearing anymore.
Still Unsure What to Consign?
Bring it in! Our team is happy to look through your items and make suggestions. We’ve seen thousands of pieces and know what sells. You can also DM us on Instagram with photos for a quick pre-screen.
Make Consignment a Habit
Once you see how easy it is to turn last season’s style into next season’s must-haves, you’ll never go back. Many of our regular clients follow a simple rotation:
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End of summer: Consign summer clothes
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Start of fall: Shop fall arrivals
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Pre-winter: Consign fall + buy winter
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Post-holidays: Consign partywear and start fresh
It’s the smartest way to keep your closet (and your style) fresh.
Final Thoughts: Clear It Out, Cash It In
Consigning in August is more than just a closet cleanout—it’s a fashion reset. You’ll make room for richer colors, heavier fabrics, and updated trends while earning back a little of what you already spent.
At High Society Resale Boutique, we make it easy, profitable, and enjoyable.
So don’t wait. Go through your wardrobe this week, pull your best gently-loved summer pieces, and bring them in. Let us help you make space, make money, and make fall fashion even more fabulous.
Ready to consign? We’re here for it.