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    The RealReal

The RealReal

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Overview

The RealReal has a rating of 2.4 stars from 5,304 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about The RealReal most frequently mention customer service, good condition, and final sale problems. The RealReal ranks 8th among Discount Clothing sites.

  • Service
    671
  • Value
    645
  • Shipping
    609
  • Returns
    536
  • Quality
    584

Proactively asks for customer feedback

This company does not typically respond to reviews

Positive reviews (last 12 months): 10.2%
Positive
11
Neutral
2
Negative
95
View ratings trends
606
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How would you rate The RealReal?
Top Positive Review

“Buyer & Seller since 2015”

Barbara G.
10/4/24

I have been a big seller and buyer on The Real Real since the beginning of the company in 2015! I have made about $400,000 selling pieces that I was not going to wear again. Also, I am a buyer of mostly "pristine" and "excellent" items on consignment. There are so many people who buy things and not wear/use them at all, and sell them new in the box with tags!

Date of experience: 10/4/24
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Top Critical Review

“Therealreal is a scam”

Barbara S.
10/5/24

Therealreal is a scam. They take high-value items for consignment and list them at ridiculously low prices, allowing their internal employees to steal them from online clients' carts or even after payments have been made. They cancel transactions and resale the items to their friends, who then post them on eBay for a profit. Please do not consign with this company; you will receive almost nothing for your high-value stuff. The company has no control over their employees, so employees do whatever they want, including defrauding their customers and running a side business for themselves

Date of experience: 10/5/24
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Reviews (5,304)

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Reviews that mention popular keywords

customer service (1430) store credit (56) shopping experience (80) return policy (79) quality items (47) quality products (24)
Thumbnail of user amandal1216
California
1 review
0 helpful votes
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October 1st, 2021
Verified purchase

I'll reach out to consignment relations or customer service. I always get an automated email back, and then an email telling me my issue has been escalated and then NOTHING. No one ever follows through with a single request. It's insane. I have open tickets that are 1-2 months old.

Date of experience: September 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user ther1016
TRR S. – The RealReal Rep

Hi Amanda, we're sorry our team has not followed up with you regarding your issue. Please DM us on social media with your info so we can help.

Thumbnail of user audreyb41
New York
1 review
0 helpful votes
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January 30th, 2018
Verified purchase

I have emailed TheRealReal with questions, concerns, problems, and embarrassing mistakes, and they've been able to right nearly all the wrongs. Very impressive. I'm a happy customer, both buying and consigning / selling.

Date of experience: January 29, 2018

Thumbnail of user ther1016
TRR S. – The RealReal Rep

Hello Audrey,

Thank you for your feedback.

We are happy to hear that our Customer Service team has provided you with you with great service and assistance!

We look forward to working with you in the future!

Thumbnail of user svetlanas36
California
1 review
1 helpful vote
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November 27th, 2019
Verified purchase

Positive experience. Great customer service. Only wish you guys would provide more detailed description/more pictures, or questions/answers about merchandise, especially in case when returns are not accepted. Got stuck with couple of items due wrong fit. Also size is not posted in description - very important in case of optical frames.

Date of experience: November 26, 2019

Thumbnail of user catherinem848
California
1 review
0 helpful votes
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July 31st, 2021
Verified purchase

I ordered three bags all described as "good" or "very good". Upon arrival, there was still some small items in one of the bags. And within weeks, the strap broke on another one. I was so hopeful this site would be my new "go to" for accessories, but I'm very disappointed.

Quality

Date of experience: July 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user susanr2762
Washington
1 review
2 helpful votes
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June 15th, 2022

I I sent 4 pieces of jewelry to consign. Per their on line account, these items were stuck in "processing" for 4 months. After multiple tries of contacting them, where one can only reach a bot, before they allow you to talk to a representative. The very kind customer care agents, say they will look into it/rectify it/solve it, etc. The last one confirmed that he was was wondering if my items were lost and that he would initiate a buy back if I did not receive items in a week. Here we are 2 weeks later, no return, no communication/no follow through. They are horrible to resolve any issues with. A bot on a text as the only customer care option is unsatisfactory. Do not doo your business here!

Tip for consumers:
DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY TO CONSIGN

Products used:
No product used. They have apparently lost my consignment and will not respond

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality

Date of experience: June 15, 2022

Thumbnail of user la179
California
1 review
0 helpful votes
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August 1st, 2021
Verified purchase

To be able to have access to a world of items that you know are not fake, high quality which benefit the seller and the environment by putting each piece back into good use is positive in all aspects.

Date of experience: August 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user heidig194
Florida
1 review
0 helpful votes
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January 1st, 2022
Verified purchase

I am so happy to have found The Real Real. It's like buying a certified used car but for clothes, shoes, handbags, etc. I have made countless purchases and have not had a single problem. When I have had to return something the process was effortless. The customer service is top notch! I also think about the recycling efforts, not paying full price, and just the sheer genius of this concept and feel that it is an absolute win-win. This is NOT your low level resale sight although there are bargains galore! Some things are still really expensive ( think Birkin bags) but I bought a St. John knit skirt for $30 and a full size leather Louis Vuitton wallet for $250…both items in pristine condition. My one and only consignment go-to.

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality

Date of experience: January 1, 2022

Thumbnail of user path467
Florida
2 reviews
0 helpful votes
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May 31st, 2021
Verified purchase

Good for buyer but not sellers. Prices are highly discounted. Some items still had tags on them, never worn and yet this was not mentioned in the description.the seller ends up getting very little money for their high quality items.

Date of experience: May 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user mb726
Massachusetts
1 review
0 helpful votes
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January 18th, 2022

As a shopper, no complaints great site. But if you decide to consign with them, understand there will be 0 customer service, your items will be lost and damaged, and they offer 0 accountability. They simply do not return emails, and if you dare to sit on hold for 2 hours to get someone on the phone you'll probably be promised followup that never occurs - via chat I've had rude and dismissive reps at time. They've lost about a thousand dollars of merchandise on my account, and right now I'm going back and forth with them because I requested some listed items returned 2 months ago and haven't been able to get an answer/ get the items shipped back (even though they are already down from the site). Used to be good, now a nightmare. And I'm a "VIP consignor" lol.

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality

Date of experience: January 18, 2022

Thumbnail of user cherryc46
GB
1 review
0 helpful votes
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February 21st, 2021
Verified purchase

When I made a complete muddle of my purchase the Administrator heard my distress, personally intervened, helped me out and even retrospectively applied a discount I'd forgotten about. I'm truly grateful.

Date of experience: February 21, 2021

Thumbnail of user lindam3309
Florida
1 review
1 helpful vote
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October 1st, 2021
Verified purchase

Called and emailed issue concerning accurate measurements on a dress which were larger for a medium than XL. No response from either email or call. Main complaint with RR is inaccurate measurements esp problematic with final sale items

Date of experience: September 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user ther1016
TRR S. – The RealReal Rep

Hi Linda, we're sorry our team has not gotten back to you. We'd be more than happy to answer any questions you have. DM us on social media with your order details so we can help.

Thumbnail of user zacharyd106
Missouri
1 review
0 helpful votes
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September 1st, 2021
Verified purchase

Everything I've received has mostly been exactly as explained, I've only had to return one damaged item and one shirt that was too large. I wish "The Real Real" would post better and more pictures of their items, especially jewelry. I've read a lot about the company and even hold shares myself but I do worry about their authentication department, it needs more experienced staff.

Date of experience: September 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user ther1016
TRR S. – The RealReal Rep

Hi Zachary, thank you for sharing your feedback with us, we truly appreciate it. We're also more than happy to answer any questions you have -- DM us on social at any time.

Thumbnail of user sandrar757
Sandra R.
Texas
1 review
0 helpful votes
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August 1st, 2021
Verified purchase

Very professionally run high end resale shop. I've been praying for a service like this for years. I can honestly say that this is the safest way to dissolve my assets without getting too involved. First class service.

Date of experience: August 1, 2021

Thumbnail of user mw622
Canada
1 review
2 helpful votes
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July 20th, 2022

I bought a sweater that was described as 'excellent' condition.
What I found upon inspection:
At least 2 stains, a small hole at the front center, extensive pilling so it looked like worn out trash.
This sweater was kind of expensive and a total rip off.
Clearly their quality control, inspection process is a joke.
I was told it was returnable, but still waiting for a return label.
No, I do not recommend buying from them. There are no reviews posted for sellers like other sites so really don't know who you can trust.
There seems to be absolutely no repercussions for dishonest sellers so why bother when you might get a piece of garbage.
What a complete waste of time and money this was.

Tip for consumers:
Use a different site that posts reviews to see who lacks credibility and might be dishonest.
Read fine print about returns.

Products used:
clothing

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality

Date of experience: July 20, 2022

Thumbnail of user susano673
South Carolina
1 review
0 helpful votes
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July 4th, 2021

I sent several items of LV to them. They 'accepted' all including a gold satchel. The same belt and buckle were NOT returned. They only returned the black belt strap saying it is 'torn'. It was worn less than the one they kept but did not give me credit for. Someone swiped it. Oddly enough, the ONLY thing sold so far is that gold satchel that goes on the belt and buckle that were NOT returned and have disappeared. To make matters worse, I have emailed them FOUR times, last one finally taking time to put the consignment number etc. They are ignoring my request and supposedly are investigating. Over a month now. That someone took my belt within the company is really saddening and pathetic and gives me little credibility for this company. Furthermore, they say 70% commission but in reality you START at 55%. I might change review depending on what happens with my other items. Very discouraged by this missing belt and response. :(

Date of experience: June 3, 2021

Thumbnail of user jhanb
Louisiana
2 reviews
6 helpful votes
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August 17th, 2020
Verified purchase

This site combines so many things I love: designer brands, incredible prices, amazing service and an artful display, all in an easy to use format that has me coming back for more again and again. I recommend TheRealReal constantly to friends who ask about my wardrobe, always joking that "No, I do not work there or own stock. I just love it!" Love that this entity exists. Thank you for making used merchandise so incredibly glamorous. Your high standards are very much appreciated.

Date of experience: August 17, 2020

Thumbnail of user valuedc112
Wisconsin
2 reviews
3 helpful votes
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August 26th, 2020
Verified purchase

Love The RealReal! My most recent purchase was a tan lamb leather mini dress that can be worn countless ways in different seasons. This is one of my favorite clothing sites, not only is there an abundance of beautiful items to purchase, but you are supporting the high end fashion industry as the second owner of quality goods that will last for years to come. Be aware of your body measurements as different brands have very different sizing. I'm usually a size 4/SM, but have ordered anywhere from an XS-MED. I've only had to return one item(too small) and it was a very easy process. I recommend to friends often.

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality

Date of experience: August 26, 2020

Thumbnail of user petrat4
Kansas
1 review
0 helpful votes
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April 12th, 2018
Verified purchase

Anthony was phenomenal. I was considering not using therealreal anymore due to poor responsiveness to my emails, but after calling in, Anthony took immediate action and followed up promptly. Now my opinion of the website has totally changed. Just goes to show one person really can make a difference.

Date of experience: April 11, 2018

Thumbnail of user ther1016
TRR S. – The RealReal Rep

Hi Petra,

Thank you for reaching out and providing us with feedback on your recent experience. We are very happy to hear of the wonderful experience you had with Anthony.

We look forward to assisting you in the future!

Thumbnail of user andreah198
California
1 review
10 helpful votes
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December 19th, 2018

There is so much to say about this site. It is relatively new. They got too big too soon. To make any money on the site, you must send items over a certain price range. Remember, if you sell less than $10,000 a year, you only receive 50%. Once you consign, your item immediately goes on sale either before or at 30 days, then again at 45 days, and on. So, keep track of your items. Ana V. is right, TheRealReal makes a killing on returns, so when you buy, be careful. There's so much more that I could get into. My suggestion? Open an Ebay site. Sell there.

Date of experience: December 17, 2018

Thumbnail of user michaelm3922
Illinois
1 review
1 helpful vote
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April 17th, 2021
Verified purchase

I've recently done a small slew of business with The RealReal, and I'm highly satisfied overall. The website is easy and intuitive to navigate, their stuff is exactly as advertised--never an unpleasant surprise, the checkout/payment process is smooth, delivery is prompt, and I'm confident I've received no fake bags or other items. The RealReal would have received a perfect five-star rating from me but for the way they bagged up my last few batches of clothing: almost offensively sloppily, maximizing wrinkles and conveying a lack of care. I realize I'm going to have to dry clean my vintage/consignment purchases, but The RealReal seems to forget we that we eat with our eyes first. Neatly folded clothes have far greater appeal when the bag or box is opened. Treat the clothes with respect!

Service
Value
Shipping
Quality

Date of experience: April 17, 2021

Thumbnail of user nancyn402
Oregon
3 reviews
2 helpful votes
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September 14th, 2020
Verified purchase

Both by buying and consigning at the Real Real there is absolutely no way to go wrong. Everything I've purchased even though the condition was only listed at good, has been so much more that just good! Also by purchasing so many things they are an excellent way to make your purchase money back and perhaps buy something else. I do believe from the beautiful designer bags to the furniture and Cartier stationary that you will never find another "resale "shop doing it so well.

Date of experience: September 14, 2020

Thumbnail of user angiec36
Canada
1 review
6 helpful votes
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December 11th, 2016

I've ordered 4 items thus far, four pair of designer shoes. All came as described, sizes, and descriptions were super accurate. I got exactly what I paid for. I've taken off one star for $#*!ty customer service. If you think you can email them with a question, forget it. So as long as you dont have problem with what you buy or want to return anything, you'll be fine. The Real Real if you're reading this, you have bad ratings mainly because of how bad your customer service is over email and phone, fix this, hire some sweet person to deal with unhappy customers and your ratings will go up, your stuff is good thus far. Thanks.

Date of experience: December 11, 2016

Thumbnail of user claires318
Pennsylvania
1 review
11 helpful votes
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April 16th, 2021
Verified purchase

The most inept customer service department ever and yet they still insist on bombarding me with emails to rate my experience, and yet apparently have no intent on doing anything about it. Now I believe the reports about their validation process being a farce because they can't send the correct product or refund the money after a return. You've got one job gang. FAIL.

Date of experience: March 17, 2021

Thumbnail of user melissaz210
Maryland
4 reviews
2 helpful votes
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July 3rd, 2022

Avoid this company as both a Buyer and a Seller. They have no live customer service to speak of and communicating via email takes weeks to resolve an issue, if it's resolved at all. Even the phone number they provide for their charge on your credit card statement has been disconnected. They don't know how to measure garments correctly and you will be charged $12.95 + tax (each way) to ship and return an item when the mistake was theirs. As a Seller, they don't follow their contract (which is almost impossible to understand and read - since it's in the smallest font available) and it's up to you to go after them to resolve the issue. Unless you buy in one of their stores and know exactly what you are getting, shop and sell somewhere else. They don't care about their customers at all.

Tip for consumers:
You've been forewarned,

Service
Shipping
Returns

Date of experience: July 3, 2022

Thumbnail of user abbyg102
Indiana
1 review
1 helpful vote
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February 10th, 2023

If I could give this rating 0 stars, I absolutely would. I bought an LV bag in late November. The straps literally disintegrated because they were so old or it was not stored properly. The leather snapped in half. Two of the strap buckle connectors ripped at the seams a few weeks after I received the bag, and I had only used it a few times. Due to their 14-day return policy, they could not provide a solution, even after texting (yes, they don't have an actual customer service line) 5 different people. Plus, they asked me to re-explain my problem each time, even though it was on the same text thread. Their only solution was for me to consign the (unusable) purse. RIDICULOUS! I've never been more appalled and disappointed by a customer service team (or lack thereof). I would NEVER order from or recommend this company again.

Service
Value
Shipping
Returns
Quality

Date of experience: February 10, 2023

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From the business

The RealReal is the leader in authenticated luxury consignment. With an expert behind every item, we ensure everything we sell is 100% real. As a sustainable company, we give new life to pieces by brands from Chanel to Cartier, and hundreds more. Exten...

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Thumbnail of user ther1016
TRR S.
Typically does not respond to reviews

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