Turn Your Closet Cosplay Into Cash
Got a closet full of costumes gathering dust?
Time to turn those old fits into funds for your next con adventure.
Why Selling Your Cosplay Rules
Most cosplayers have at least a few costumes worn once and then forgotten.
Instead of letting them take up space, selling is a win for you and the community:
Sustainable:
Your racthet Poison Ivy could be someone else’s first cosplay.
Funds your hobby:
Sell your old gear, buy supplies for your next big build.
Connects fans:
Passing on a cosplay can literally make someone’s day. Not to mention- your wallet
Use your socials to sell your cosplays!
Step 1: Prep Your Costumes
Deep Clean Protocol
Gentle wash or spot clean
Steam or iron out wrinkles
Fix loose threads or minor tears
Bundle Like a Boss
Group items into “starter packs”: costume, wig, accessories, and even shoes if possible. Always be upfront if something needs a little DIY.
Step 2: Photography That Sells
Use natural light near a window or shine your brightest ring light
Stick to plain or pastel backdrops
Flat lay accessories and props
Must-have shots:
Full outfit (on hanger, mannequin, or neatly laid out)
Close-ups of fabric, textures, or embellishments
Size tags or brand labels- try to include measurements
Accessories + wigs grouped together
Honest photos of any flaws
The cosplay in motion
(Optional: Add a con photo of you wearing it — buyers love seeing it in action.)
Title Formula:
[Character] [Series] Cosplay – [Size] – [Key Feature]
Examples:
Princess Leia – Small– Blaster Listed Seperately
Poison Ivy Cosplay– Small to XSmal – Con Ready Set Bustier Bag Wig Used Condition
Step 3: Write Listings That Convert
In your description, always include:
Condition (e.g., “worn once for a photoshoot”)
Detailed sizing/measurements
What’s included (wig, shoes, accessories)
Any modifications you made
Buzzwords that sell: con-ready, starter pack, complete set, photoshoot quality.
Step 4: Choose the Right Platform
.
Depop: Trendy + fandom friendly - younger crowd
eBay: Best for rare or vintage cosplays, global reach and collectors
Poshmark: Bundle discounts, higher-end costumes
Etsy: Handmade or one-of-a-kind builds
Facebook & Discord: Niche fan groups = fast sales
Step 5: Price It Right
General rule:
Complete + good condition: 40–60% retail
Worn multiple times: 30–40% retail
Missing items/needs work: 20–30% retail
💡 Bundle items so the combined price feels like a deal (e.g., wig $25 + costume $65 + boots $40 = $130 → bundle for $110).
Round to clean numbers: $45, $80, $100.
Step 6: Market Your Closet Cleanout
Hashtags:
#cosplayforsale
#[charactername]cosplay
#[seriesname]cosplay
#starterpack #conready #cosplaycommunity
Cross-post everywhere:
TikTok “closet cleanout” videos
Instagram stories with swipe links
Twitter/X using trending fandom tags
Reddit cosplay subs (check rules first)
The Bottom Line
Selling cosplay isn’t just decluttering — it’s giving your costumes a second life. Your old Sailor Moon or Genshin look could become someone’s very first con outfit.
By passing them on, you’re keeping the cosplay community sustainable and funding your next build guilt-free.
✨ So grab one costume, snap some photos, and get your first listing up today.
Your wallet (and another cosplayer) will thank you.
