John Lewis has launched a range of “pre-loved” designer handbags for purchase online.

The range has been launched in partnership with Sign of the Times, a reseller with over 45 years experience in the second-hand market.

Customers will be able to choose from over 150 options from designers including Christian Dior and Chanel.

John Lewis said that demand for premium handbags has increased in recent years, accounting for nearly 65 per cent of all handbag sales across John Lewis.

The new range follows the opening of a pop-up shop at the company’s Peter Jones department store in Sloane Square, London, where it sold a range of luxury pre-loved items last year. Over 300 luxury designer pieces were sold in the first six months, with customers saving an average of 58 per cent compared to the original retail price.


Additionally, customers looking to sell their items can bring in their designer products to a new permanent space at Peter Jones. They can also contact Sign of the Times with images and arrange for the item to be collected for valuation, authentication and sale.

“We’ve seen tremendous success with our pre-loved designer pop-up with Sign of the Times in our Peter Jones shop and are thrilled to continue to build and make shopping more sustainably easier for our customers through johnlewis.com,” said Danielle Gagola, innovation lead at John Lewis. “As a brand we are committed to prolonging a product’s life, whether that is buying second hand, renting or more recently offering repairs.

“Doubling our pre-loved offering online is just one step in the right direction and one we will continue to grow for our customers.”

John Lewis said it will continue to build on its circular economy strategy over the coming months, including the launch of a new pop-up with childrenswear rental and resale brand thelittleloop, where customers can purchase second-hand clothing in store.

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