In theory, the trendy notion of “investing” in fashion sounds terribly glamorous. You immediately picture yourself snapping up a dream bag and watching its value soar over the years. I get it — who wouldn’t fancy the idea of a wardrobe that doubles as a retirement plan? But here is the reality check: fashion investments rarely pay off. So, let us dive into why you shouldn’t count on your wardrobe to deliver any dividends.

Here is the thing: most of what hangs in your closet isn’t exactly financing your future — unless you are one of the lucky few with a pristine Birkin from the 1990s or an attic full of Chanel jackets from when people still bought newspapers. Fashion depreciates faster than you can blink. Sure, luxury items may hold up better than fast fashion in terms of quality, but their market value tends to nosedive the moment you step outside the store. 

Then there is the fickle nature of trends. Today’s “it” piece might hold all the allure in the world, but tomorrow, it could be as desirable as underripe avocado. Fashion moves at lighting speed: one season, it is all about tiny handbags that can barely fit a lip balm, and the next, it’s oversized totes that double as a small luggage. So, trying to bank on a trend’s staying power is like attempting to predict the future — good luck with that!

Still not convinced? Let us chat about condition. Suppose you manage to get your hands on a rare piece that could, theoretically, appreciate in value. To get anywhere close to a profit, you will need to keep it pristine, which means storing it away in a humidity-controlled sanctuary, far from pets, kids, or late-night takeaway mishaps. Basically, you own it, but you can’t enjoy it. It is like buying a sports car and never taking it for a spin. One coffee spill or scratch and poof! There goes your so-called “investment.”

Finding these so-called “investment pieces” is like spotting a unicorn. The hype around them can be misleading, as many “exclusive” items are produced in large quantities. A true collector’s gem is the exception, so prepare for a hunt.

When it is finally time to sell your treasures, things get even trickier. Beyond the hefty commissions, you will have to navigate negotiations, authenticity inquiries, and the whole selling  process which can take more time and effort than an average workday. You will soon be wondering if this whole idea was worth the hussle.

Sure, a few pieces do hold their value — typically from ultra-exclusive releases or legendary brands. But unless you are part of that niche club, most fashion items will likely net you little more than pocket change.

Buying clothes and accessories with the intention of reselling them later, in my opinion, completely misses the point of fashion — which is all about self-expression and creativity. Building a wardrobe should be a joyful experience, where you revel in the pieces you own instead of stressing over every little sign of wear that might diminish their value. Treating your closet like a stock portfolio just sucks all the fun out of it. After all, fashion’s true worth lies in the memories we create while wearing it, not in some imagined future payday.