Exercise 1 – Vocabulary

Repeat each word, definition, and example sentence after your tutor.

1. resale (noun) – the act of selling something again after it has been bought.
   Example: The resale of luxury handbags is growing quickly online.

2. secondhand (adj) – not new; previously owned.
   Example: Many young people prefer secondhand fashion for sustainability reasons.

3. authenticity (noun) – the quality of being real or genuine.
   Example: Buyers often request certificates of authenticity when purchasing luxury goods.

4. platform (noun) – an online service or company that connects buyers and sellers.
   Example: Platforms like The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective specialize in luxury resale.

5. sustainability (noun) – avoiding waste and protecting the environment for the future.
   Example: Resale markets promote sustainability by extending the life of products.

6. consumer behavior (noun) – the actions and preferences of buyers.
   Example: Changes in consumer behavior show that people are less focused on owning new items.

7. profit margin (noun) – the amount of money a company keeps after expenses.
   Example: Resale platforms take a percentage of each sale as their profit margin.

Exercise 2 – Article

The Rise of Luxury Fashion Resale

In the past, luxury fashion was mainly about exclusivity and newness. Today, the industry is experiencing a shift: secondhand luxury goods are becoming mainstream. Online platforms such as Vestiaire Collective and The RealReal have turned the resale market into a multibillion-dollar business.

The appeal is clear. Consumers can buy high-quality items at lower prices, while sellers earn money from pieces they no longer use. At the same time, younger buyers, especially Gen Z, see resale as part of sustainability. They want fashion that looks good but also aligns with eco-friendly values.

However, challenges remain. The biggest issue is authenticity. Fake luxury goods are common, so platforms must carefully check items before selling them. Trust is essential for growth in this market.

From a business perspective, resale is changing the meaning of ownership. Instead of keeping a handbag for decades, buyers may purchase it, use it for a season, and then resell it. This shift in consumer behavior has forced luxury brands to rethink their strategies. Some designers now collaborate with resale platforms directly, instead of ignoring or resisting them.

Experts believe the luxury resale industry will continue to grow, offering both opportunities and challenges for brands, buyers, and sellers.

Exercise 3 – Discussion

• Why do you think resale has become so popular in recent years?

• Would you ever buy or sell luxury goods secondhand? Why or why not?

• How does sustainability influence consumer choices in fashion today?

• Do you think luxury brands benefit from resale, or does it hurt their image?

• Which items (clothing, jewelry, bags, shoes) are most valuable in resale markets?

Exercise 4 – Further Discussion

• What are the risks of buying secondhand luxury items online?

• Should luxury brands guarantee the authenticity of their items on resale platforms?

• How does the resale market compare to fast fashion in terms of business and environment?

• Do you think the resale trend will spread to other industries (e.g., cars, electronics)?

• How might resale reshape the future of fashion retail?

Exercise 5 – Writing Task

Essay Prompt:
"Some people believe that secondhand luxury fashion makes high-end brands more accessible. Others argue it reduces the exclusivity of luxury goods. Which opinion do you agree with? Support your answer with examples."

Sample Essay (TOEFL Style)

I believe that secondhand luxury fashion makes brands more accessible, and this is a positive development.

First, resale allows people who cannot afford new luxury items to enjoy high-quality products. This broadens the customer base for luxury fashion and keeps items in circulation rather than wasted. In this way, resale also supports sustainability, which is a growing priority in society.

Second, resale creates new business opportunities. Online platforms earn strong profit margins by connecting buyers and sellers, while luxury brands can benefit by collaborating with these platforms. Ignoring the trend could hurt their relevance among younger generations.

Of course, some argue that resale reduces exclusivity. If anyone can buy a secondhand designer bag, luxury may seem less special. However, I believe exclusivity is no longer the most important factor for modern consumers. Values such as sustainability and affordability matter more.

In conclusion, secondhand luxury fashion makes the industry more inclusive and environmentally responsible. It represents a healthy change for both consumers and businesses.