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What is a kilo sale?

A kilo sale is a second-hand shopping event where clothing is sold by weight instead of per item. Shoppers browse through large selections of vintage and pre-loved clothes, choose what they like, weigh their haul and pay a fixed price per kilo.


Kilo sales create a fun, treasure-hunt atmosphere and offer an affordable way to build a unique wardrobe.


Kilo Sale Meaning


A kilo sale is a vintage or second-hand shopping event where clothes are priced by weight, usually between £10 and £20 per kilo.


This means the cost depends on the total weight of your items, not the number of pieces you buy.


How Kilo Sales Work


Most kilo sales follow a simple process:

  1. Browse the racks and piles: Clothing is usually arranged in big crates, racks or tables. Items are often mixed by category or era.

  2. Pick your favourites: You can select as many items as you want. There are no fixed prices per piece.

  3. Weigh your haul: Staff weigh your items on a scale. The total weight determines the final price.

  4. Pay per kilo: Each event has a set price per kilo. For example, £15 per kilo means one kilogram of clothing costs £15.

  5. Take home your finds: Lightweight items like T-shirts cost very little, while heavier pieces like coats cost more, even if they are still much cheaper than buying vintage retail.


Why Kilo Sales Are So Popular


Kilo sales are extremely popular. They attract students, thrifters and fashion lovers because they offer:

  • Affordable vintage: Buying by weight can give you incredible deals, especially for light items.

  • A treasure-hunt experience: You never know what pieces you will uncover.

  • Access to unique styles: Vintage sweaters, denim, leather jackets, Y2K pieces and more.

  • A sustainable shopping option: Buying second-hand keeps clothing in circulation and reduces waste.

  • Stock variety: Events often refresh the rails throughout the day.

  • A fun day out: Many events feel like markets, with music, snacks and a lively atmosphere.


What You Can Find at a Kilo Sale


Kilo sales often include a wide range of second-hand clothing, such as:

  • vintage denim

  • graphic tees

  • knitwear

  • dresses and skirts

  • coats and jackets

  • Y2K tops

  • sportswear

  • flannels and shirts

  • accessories

  • festival wear


Stock varies at every event, making each kilo sale a unique experience.


Price Examples


Prices vary between organisers, but typical UK prices are:

  • £10 per kilo

  • £15 per kilo

  • £20 per kilo


To put this into perspective:

  • 1 lightweight T-shirt might cost around £2

  • 5 thin tops might cost £10

  • A heavy coat might cost around £20 depending on weight


This makes kilo sales one of the most cost-effective ways to buy vintage clothing.


Kilo Sale Organisers in the UK


Several companies run regular kilo sale events across UK cities, including:

  • Preloved Kilo

  • Worth The Weight

  • Glass Onion Vintage

  • The Vintage Kilo Sale


These events happen in venues like community halls, university campuses, markets and event spaces.


Ganddee lists many kilo sales in our thrifting calendar, so you can easily find upcoming events near you.


Tips for Shopping at a Kilo Sale


  • Arrive early: The best pieces go quickly.

  • Bring a sturdy bag: You will be carrying your finds around the venue.

  • Check condition carefully: Some items may show wear or require small repairs.

  • Try things on if allowed: Sizing varies widely with vintage clothing.

  • Know what weighs a lot: Chunky knits and leather add weight quickly.

  • Have fun and explore: Half the joy of kilo sales is digging for unexpected gems.


Related Terms



Find upcoming kilo sales, charity shops and vintage events near you on Ganddee.

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