The second-hand marketplace Shoppers Express Frustration Over Sizing Modifications

Vinted users have been reacting angrily following a change that caused items being listed as the wrong size.

This online marketplace has revised its sizing categories for female and kids' apparel without notifying every member regarding the update.

Online Platforms Backlash

Many shoppers and sellers have taken to social media saying Vinted listings now show an altered size classification than originally posted because of the remapping.

The company said the new system was more in line with comparable marketplaces.

They have suggested members to examine their items and adjust the sizing manually if necessary, resulting in member annoyance.

Sizing System Modifications

Previously, the measurements included a single numeric size and a letter, such as S/8 or M/10.

The updated approach includes a letter with a size spectrum for example S/UK 8-10.

For certain items, the measurements have been reclassified - such as a large size was previously a 12 but is now a UK 16-18.

Member Experiences

Frankie Bridger, who produces content about larger sizing, stated the update "complicates both purchasing and selling".

"Few clothing companies classify XL as 20-22," which is what Vinted now does.

Another user, based in Glasgow, explained products she uploaded with size 14 tags were showing in the marketplace as size 20–22.

"If buyers measuring 20-22 acquire them they may become frustrated," she said.

Necessary Adjustments

A different user, based in Derby, said she had been left angered by the change as she had to manually change the sizing for "all her products".

"Personally, this is quite irritating, as I'm chronically ill and Vinted sales have been crucial after experiencing income reduction," she explained.

Service Background

The platform boasts over 100 million shoppers, including 18 million in the UK.

It has emerged as a preferred choice compared to resale services such as eBay and Depop.

This represents another occasion where an unanticipated change on the platform has faced criticism: earlier, Vinted reversed a change regarding delivery choices due to shopper criticism.

Julia Garcia
Julia Garcia

Elara Vance is a visual culture critic and curator with a passion for exploring how art intersects with modern society.