Discovering a New Way to Shop: Whatnot App Review
Recently, I was introduced to a new type of online shopping that I just had to share with you! It’s called Whatnot, and it’s a unique blend of QVC and Poshmark. The Whatnot app allows shoppers to experience live auctions or buy directly from a seller’s marketplace. It’s fast-paced, and fun, and you can score some fantastic deals! Please keep reading for my full review.
Getting Started with the Whatnot App
First things first, Whatnot offers a free app that you can download from your app store. Once installed, you can explore items that match your preferences and interests by answering a few quick questions. The app then suggests sellers and upcoming auctions tailored to you.
On Whatnot, you can bid on or buy new and secondhand clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. It’s a great way to discover unique items and enjoy an auction experience from the comfort of your home.
Pros & Cons of Shopping on Whatnot
Even though I’ve only been using the Whatnot app for a few weeks, I’ve already made two purchases. Here are some pros and cons I’ve discovered so far:
Pros:
- Designer Deals: Luxury brands that normally retail for thousands of dollars are often auctioned off at a fraction of the cost. If you’re after a specific item, you can search for it, find an auction, and bid in real time!
- Live Auction Excitement: Auctions on Whatnot are live and typically last only 15-30 seconds. This makes the experience quick and exciting—no waiting around to see if you’ve won!
- Direct Interaction: You can ask sellers questions during the auction, such as sizing information or how a brand fits. Sellers are vetted by Whatnot, so you can shop with confidence knowing that you’re protected.
Cons:
- Finding the Right Sellers: It can take time to find auctions and sellers that match your style. The only way to know if a seller has what you like is to join their auction and get a feel for their offerings.
- Fast-Paced Bidding: Although auctions are short, you might spend some time waiting for the perfect item to come up. And when you find something you like, you’ll need to be quick, as resellers often have bidding down to a science.
- No Returns: From what I’ve seen, there isn’t an option to return items, so be sure to know your size and measurements before placing a bid.
What It’s Like to Join a Live Auction
I was a little nervous during my first auction—especially when the host welcomed me! But I quickly realized it was more fun and personal than I expected. Here’s how it works: you join the auction and see the seller showcasing a garment. Before the bidding starts, they provide a full description, including size, any imperfections, and the suggested retail price.
The seller will answer any questions that come up before setting the timer and starting the auction. You’ll see in real-time how many seconds are left and who currently holds the winning bid. When you want to bid, you simply slide left, and when the timer runs out, the highest bid wins.
Afterward, you’ll receive a notification from Whatnot with tracking information once your order ships. Just keep in mind that the seller handles shipping, so it won’t be overnight delivery. However, all shipping and taxes are clearly stated during the auction—no surprises!
Where Do These Items Come From?
You might be wondering where Whatnot sellers source their products. I was curious too! It turns out many retailers don’t accept online returns directly back to the store. Instead, those returns are sent to facilities and sold in bulk to buyers, who then resell the items in various ways—including on the Whatnot app.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Whatnot App
To make the most of your Whatnot shopping experience, I recommend knowing your favorite brands and exact measurements. Since it appears there’s no option to return items, once you buy something, it’s yours!
Also, follow sellers you like. I searched for “Contemporary Fashion” and found a few sellers I enjoyed and others that didn’t match my taste. Like any app, the more you use it, the better it gets. It’s a fun way to discover new items and build your wardrobe.
Download the app today and use this link to find your favorite products!
