Ever wonder how we decide if something’s “like new” or “visibly used”?
Spoiler: it’s not just vibes and ring lights.
At The Sequel, we built our own grading system — not to sound official, but to make secondhand shopping feel just as trustworthy (if not more) than retail. Because when you’re buying pre-owned, the condition matters even more than the brand.
So here’s the full download: how we grade, what we look for, what makes the cut — and what doesn’t.
Why condition grading matters more than ever
Let’s be honest — if you’re shopping secondhand, you’re already a level above. You care about:
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smart spending
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quality over hype
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and pieces that actually last
But with no shrink wrap, no price tags, no “fresh from the box” energy… the only thing that really matters is trust.
That’s where our grading system comes in. No guesswork. No guessing between “eh” and “oh yes.”
Our 5-level grading system
We don’t just say “used.” We break it down, so you know how used — and whether it’s still right for you.
1.
New with tags
Never worn. Still has retail tags.
Usually comes from overstock, closet cleanouts, or that one person who buys outfits and forgets about them (we love you, whoever you are).
✅ No wear at all
✅ Original labels or packaging
✅ Perfect condition
2.
Like new
Looks unworn — but no tags. Maybe tried on once. Zero visible flaws.
✅ Clean, crisp, structured
✅ No signs of wash, wear, or stretch
✅ Usually indistinguishable from new retail
3.
Excellent
Lightly worn, but super well cared for. You may see tiny signs of use, but you’d have to go looking.
✅ Fabric still fresh
✅ Very minimal fading or softening
✅ No damage or noticeable flaws
4.
Good (light wear)
It’s been worn and washed, but still looks great. Some visible wear — nothing crazy, but it’s there.
✅ Slight fade, pilling, or sole scuffing
✅ Structure still intact
✅ All details functional (zippers, buttons, etc.)
5.
Visibly used
This is where we’re 100% real. The piece shows wear, and we’re not hiding it.
But it’s still cool. Still wearable. Still worth it.
✅ Visible aging or flaws (called out + photographed)
✅ Priced accordingly
✅ Clean, functional, and always described honestly
🛑 Anything below this? Doesn’t make the cut.
We don’t sell damaged, broken, or “just for photos” stuff. No shady listings here.
What exactly do we check?
It’s not just “Does this look cute?”
Every single item goes through a 10-point inspection, including:
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Fabric feel — any thinning, stiffness, or stretch loss?
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Color fade — even fade = okay. Patchy bleach spots = nope.
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Pilling — light pilling on knits is fine; fuzzy sweaters that look eaten? Pass.
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Stains — we check armpits, collars, hems. Any stain = reviewed under direct light.
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Odor — musty? smoky? overly perfumed? That’s a no from us.
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Hardware — zippers, buttons, snaps — do they work, or are they janky?
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Shape & structure — does the item hold its silhouette? Or did it lose the plot?
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Seams & stitching — any unraveling, skipped stitches, or stress points?
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Label integrity — we note missing size or brand tags.
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Overall vibe — okay, we admit, this one’s a little gut-feel. But it matters. Does it feel like it still wants to be worn?
Only if an item passes all ten do we grade it — and we grade it conservatively.
The photos don’t lie
We don’t use filters, fake lighting, or angles that hide the flaws.
If there’s a scuffed toe — you’ll see it.
If the logo’s a little faded — zoom’s on it.
If it’s visibly used — it’s visibly documented.
Because the best way to build trust isn’t slick copy. It’s evidence.
How this protects
you
as a buyer
Our grading system isn’t just about looking legit.
It’s about saving you from:
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awkward surprises when you open the package
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returns you didn’t want to deal with
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overpaying for something that should’ve cost half
It’s what we want when we shop. So we made it standard for everyone.
FAQ
How do I know your grading system is accurate?
We built our system in-house — and we use real human eyes, not automation. Every item is hand-inspected by a trained grader, using a fixed checklist. And we grade conservatively on purpose. If something is borderline between “excellent” and “good,” we label it “good.” That way, your expectations are exceeded — not disappointed.
What if I disagree with the grade after receiving the item?
You can return it — no questions asked. We stand behind our grading, but we also know that clothing is personal. If it doesn’t match what you expected from the listing (visually or condition-wise), our return policy has your back. We’d rather lose a sale than your trust.
Is ‘visibly used’ just a nicer way of saying damaged?
Nope — and that’s exactly why we created the term. “Damaged” means the item has a real problem: broken zipper, unwearable stain, torn seam. Those don’t pass our inspection.
“Visibly used” means the wear is obvious but not problematic — like a softened print, faded logo, scuffed heel, or relaxed neckline. It still works, still wears, and is always priced to reflect the condition.
Why not just use industry-standard terms like ‘fair’ or ‘mint’?
Because we don’t want to sound like an eBay listing from 2006.
Our grading is designed for real shoppers — not collectors. “Excellent,” “Good,” and “Visibly Used” actually mean something here. Plus, we explain what each grade includes, so you’re not left guessing. That’s the whole point.
What happens to the items that don’t make the cut?
We either donate them, recycle them (through textile recycling partners), or offer them in curated “salvage” drops at super low prices with full disclosure. But those items never hit the main store unless they meet our standards. You’ll never see a questionable tee listed as “fine” for $40. We’re not that store.
Can I sort by condition while browsing?
Yes — and you should. Want only near-mint stuff? Filter by “Like New.” Want a deal and don’t mind a little patina? Hit up the “Visibly Used” section. The grading helps you shop smarter, faster, and more confidently — which is kinda our thing.
