WHERE TO BUY, SELL AND THRIFT YOUR FOSCHINI WARDROBE IN SOUTH AFRICA

This article was originally published on WISI-Oi and has been updated for Kloset Klub, the new version of the platform. All services, selling, payments and delivery now operate through Kloset Klub.

South Africa has seen a major rise in second-hand clothing, with thrift stores and resale platforms popping up from Cape Town and Johannesburg to Gqeberha and Durban.

This shift is part of a broader move towards sustainability, affordability and more expressive, unique fashion.

This guide was created by WISI-Oi and is now updated by Kloset Klub – the new name for WISI-Oi and South Africa’s circular fashion community where you can buy and sell pre-loved fashion, including your favourite Foschini pieces.

THE INFLUENCE OF FOSCHINI IN THE SECOND-HAND MARKET

No discussion of South African fashion is complete without Foschini. As one of the country’s leading fashion retailers, Foschini has filled wardrobes with everything from black funeral dresses and formalwear to casual denim, leather jackets and accessories.

Because Foschini focuses on accessible trends and solid quality, its pieces hold value in the second-hand space, and shoppers actively hunt for pre-loved Foschini dresses, suits and smartwear on resale platforms and in thrift stores.

THE RISE OF THRIFT AND RESALE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Thrifting and resale have moved from niche to normal in South Africa. More shoppers now see second-hand fashion as a smart way to save money, reduce waste and build a more distinctive wardrobe.

Key drivers include:

SUSTAINABILITY

Buying second-hand helps cut demand for new production and keeps clothing in circulation for longer, which reduces the environmental impact of fast fashion. ​

AFFORDABILITY

In a tight economy, thrifting makes it possible to find quality pieces – like formal Foschini dresses or leather jackets – at a fraction of original prices. ​

UNIQUENESS

Thrift stores, resale apps and social selling unlock one-of-a-kind looks that are hard to replicate with mall shopping alone.

BASH MARKETPLACE

Bash, a multi-brand e-commerce platform, has expanded into marketplace and resale offerings, allowing shoppers to browse a wide range of brands in one place. While Bash primarily focuses on new fashion, its marketplace features increasingly make it easier to discover deals and occasional pre-loved or discounted pieces alongside regular stock. ​

For Foschini fans, Bash is a useful complement: you can compare new arrivals, outlet pricing and other brands while building a wardrobe that still works well with your second-hand finds. ​

PHYSICAL THRIFT STORES AND CHARITY SHOPS

Across Cape Town, Johannesburg and Gqeberha, physical thrift stores and charity shops continue to be rich hunting grounds for pre-loved Foschini pieces. ​

CAPE TOWN: Independent thrift stores and curated boutiques often stock dresses, blazers and denim from major mall brands, including Foschini.

JOHANNESBURG: Second-hand clothing shops and markets in Joburg are ideal if you enjoy in-person rail digging and mixing Foschini basics with vintage statement pieces.

GQEBERHA (PORT ELIZABETH): Local thrift stores and markets offer a mix of structured workwear, occasionwear and casual pieces from Foschini and similar brands.

HOW TO SELL YOUR FOSCHINI SECOND-HAND CLOTHES

If your wardrobe is overflowing with Foschini items you no longer wear, reselling is an easy way to declutter, earn cash and keep your clothes in circulation.

SELLING ON KLOSET KLUB

As WISI-Oi reborn, Kloset Klub is designed for South Africans who want to sell from their closets, not just from markets. ​ Take clear photos and short videos showing the fit, fabric and any details like lace, embellishments or tailoring.

Mention “Foschini” in your title and description, along with size, condition and how it fits (e.g. “true to size”, “slightly small on bust”).

Price realistically based on condition and original value, leaving a bit of room for offers. ​ Foschini items that perform especially well second-hand include formal dresses, workwear, blazers, coats, leather and faux leather pieces, quality knitwear and suits for ladies. ​

USING BASH MARKETPLACE AND OTHER CHANNELS

Where Bash Marketplace supports resale or pre-owned offerings, it can be another channel to reach buyers who already trust the Bash ecosystem and are browsing similar brands. ​ You can also use:

Local thrift stores that buy or take items on consignment.

Social media (Instagram closets, Facebook Marketplace, WhatsApp status) to sell particular Foschini outfits or styling bundles.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BUYING AND SELLING FOSCHINI SECOND-HAND

A few smart habits can help you get better results, whether you are thrifting in person or using platforms like Kloset Klub and Bash.

KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

Decide whether you are looking for formal dresses, everyday basics, statement jackets or accessories so you do not get overwhelmed or side-tracked.

CHECK QUALITY CAREFULLY

Inspect seams, zips, buttons and lining on items like evening dresses, suits and leather jackets, and disclose any flaws clearly when you list them.

SHOP AND LIST REGULARLY

New stock lands all the time in both physical stores and online marketplaces, so checking regularly increases your chance of finding the perfect piece or getting your listings seen. ​

MIX AND MATCH BRANDS

Combine pre-loved Foschini with other brands (like The Fix, Queenspark or smaller designers) to create looks that feel current but still individual.

DON’T FORGET ACCESSORIES

Second-hand shoes, bags, watches and jewellery can elevate simple Foschini dresses or suits and give older outfits new life.