What does NWOT mean in second-hand listings?

NWOT stands for New Without Tags, a term used on second-hand marketplaces to describe an item that has never been worn or used but no longer has its original retail tags attached.

NWOT pieces are essentially brand new, making them highly desirable for second-hand and sustainable fashion shoppers.

NWOT Meaning

NWOT means: a completely unworn, unused item that no longer includes its original brand or price tags.

NWOT items often look and feel exactly like new retail pieces, but they are usually sold at a lower price.

Why Items End Up NWOT

There are many common reasons a piece becomes NWOT, including:

tags were removed at home but the item was never worn
a gift that did not fit or suit the recipient
impulse purchases that stayed in the wardrobe
buyers who changed their minds after removing the tags
items tried on at home but never used outside

These pieces remain in perfect condition, even though the tags are gone.

Why NWOT Items Are Popular in Second-Hand Shopping

NWOT listings are especially appealing because they offer:

Brand new condition: Clothing looks untouched, with crisp fabric, intact stitching and no signs of wear.
Lower prices: Items are usually cheaper than NWT (New With Tags) pieces.
Sustainable shopping: NWOT allows shoppers to get "new" items without buying newly manufactured goods.
Great value: Perfect for upgrading your wardrobe on a budget.
Ideal for reselling: Some buyers specifically hunt for NWOT items to resell.

NWOT sits between the appeal of new retail items and the affordability of second-hand.

Examples of NWOT Items

Common NWOT categories include:

dresses and tops
shoes that were tried on indoors
coats and jackets
accessories
unworn activewear
kids' clothing bought in the wrong size

Anything that has never been worn can be listed as NWOT as long as it shows no signs of use.

How to Identify NWOT Items When Shopping Online

When browsing second-hand platforms, look for:

Clear photos: Images should show the fabric, hems, stitching and overall condition.
No signs of wear: Seams, cuffs and underarms should look untouched.
Seller notes: Some sellers explain why the tags were removed.
Measurements: Helpful for confirming fit when the original tag is not present.
Brand labels: Even if tags are missing, internal labels should be intact.