EBay is really pushing to reinvent itself as more than just a place to get a bargain on second-hand fashion. According to Fashion Times, the auction site launched an initiative called Designer Collective — a shopping destination that offers 16 U.S.-based fashion brands, like Rebecca Minkoff and Calvin Klein, that are all in-season and full-price.
Devin Wenig, president of eBay marketplaces told WWD, "[Designer Collective] fits with our philosophy — as partner and an enabler of brands and not a competitor." The designer brands will have full control over their storefronts and inventory on eBay's new boutique. In turn, eBay believes their new high-fashion destination will be a way for participating brands to extend their online presence. "The larger brands see this as an extension of their digital footprint," said Marcelle Parrish, eBay's head of fashion.
Wondering which brands you'll be able to snag at full price now? In addition to Rebecca Minkoff and Calvin Klein, the following designers are participating in Designer Collective: Nicole Miller, Elie Tahari, Cynthia Vincent, House of Harlow 1960, Kenneth Jay Lane, Ramy Brook, Ruffian, Siwy Denim, Tadashi Shoji, Alex and Ani, Badgley Mischka, Billy Reid, Cynthia Rowley and True Religion. Additionally, Halston Heritage, Trina Turk, Rachel Pally, 4.Collective, Jay Godfrey, Tuleste, Raoul, Nicole Romano and Janis Savitt are slated to join in the near future.
Although the Designer Collective launch was rather quiet, eBay plans to spend the next few months working on their new initiative, teaming up with fashion influencers and bloggers and featuring seasonal style stories. They hope to have a bigger launch come September.
Curious what it all looks like? Check it out here.
