The Style Lister
Maria, founder of The Style Lister, transformed her frustration with lowball consignment offers into a thriving vintage business. What began as selling her own designer pieces on eBay after college has evolved into a passion for connecting clients with unique fashion finds, always ensuring sellers receive fair value for their treasured items.
We would love to hear how you got started in the vintage space!
I started The Style Lister because I loved selling my clothes online. It began in college, I had all these beautiful items sitting in my closet that I no longer wore. I took them to consignment shops and balked at the $12 store credit for a $475 BCBG Max Azria gown and $3 for $300 Diesel jeans that were in perfect condition. It was insulting. Though I completely understand and condone maximizing profit, I just couldn't part with my clothing for those prices. Since I would use Ebay to purchase vinyl records, I decided to give selling my clothing a try. I sold the gown and the jeans for much more than I was offered, almost immediately. It motivated me to sell other items, and my ability to sell began to grow.
Over the past 15+ years, what has been the biggest change you've witnessed in the online reselling industry?
How acceptable it’s become to purchase preloved. This attitude was not common at all 15 years ago–most people balked at buying preloved items and it carried the assumption of not being able to afford brand new items. Over time, people began to value the uniqueness of vintage, high end, and runway items and that ultimately mattered more than what other people thought. I’m proud to say that I’ve been investing in my collection for 15+ years while others were too focused on fast fashion and I’m seeing the payoff now.
Could you share a memorable styling experience where you helped a client find the perfect piece for a special event?
During my eBay days I had a massive, true vintage ‘80s white Mongolian Fur coat listed and received an inquiry from a potential buyer who was having a December wedding in Vermont. After she purchased it I told her to send me pictures and months later I got a beautiful photo of the bride and groom on their wedding day–with the bride draped in the stunning coat. The Vermont snow in the background was amazing and the couple looked so happy!
Are there any fashion trends you’ve been loving recently? Any trends you’re hoping to make a return?
I’ve always loved the 80s, so I’m excited for the revival! Don’t hate me—but I have a thing for big shoulder pads. I think they’re amazing.
Who are your style icons
My mom, lady Diana, Patricia Field, and Elvira Hancock.
Do you have any favorite success stories of items that have had multiple owners through your business that demonstrate the 'second, third, or fourth life' mentioned on your site?
I do! I once purchased a luxury handbag at an estate sale from a lovely person who was downsizing her collection. I wore this handbag for about a year, then I sold it to a repeat client during one of my livestreams. She used it for a couple of years and last year she sent it back to me to consign and another client of mine purchased it. It was amazing.
What are your goals for The Style Lister for the rest of 2025?
Expand my reach by creating knowledgeable content. I think what truly is missing from many resellers is the knowledge of the products and the history of the items that they’re selling. It’s crucial to not only understand the history of the item itself but also the creative director behind it too.