How to Shop on PageantTree

Looking for the perfect gown, crown, or cosmetic? PageantTree makes it easy to discover, connect, and buy from trusted sellers in the pageant world. Here's a quick guide to help you shop with confidence.

1. Browse or Search

Start by exploring our Shop section, where you'll find items organized by category, price, size, and condition. You can also use the search bar to look for something specific like "evening gown" or "magnetic lashes."

2. Filter & Sort

Narrow your results by using filters for item type, age group, condition (new, like new, gently used), and seller type (vendor, contestant, director). Sort listings by date, price, or popularity.

You can also just type in what you're looking for, like "red evening gown".

3. View Listing Details

Click any item to view its full listing page. You’ll see:

• Photos and videos
• Description and condition
• Seller information
• Price

If you'd like to make an offer or have questions, use the messaging feature to reach out to the seller directly.

4. Complete the Purchase

Platform-Mediated Purchases (Default - Buy Button)

All new listings use platform-mediated transactions with secure checkout. When you see a Buy Now button:

• Click "Buy Now" to start the secure checkout process
• Complete payment using Stripe's secure payment form
• A 15% transaction fee is included in the total (covers payment processing, escrow, and platform services)
• You'll receive email confirmation and can track your order in My Orders
• The seller will be notified and will ship your item
• Funds are held in escrow until you confirm receipt or 3 days after delivery
• You can request refunds if needed through your order details

✅ Secure & Protected: Platform-mediated purchases are processed securely through PageantTree, giving you buyer protection, escrow protection, and easy refund requests.

Legacy Listings (Message-Only)

Some older listings may use the traditional messaging model (these are being phased out). For these legacy listings:

• You'll see a notice that this is a legacy listing requiring direct seller contact
• Click "Message Seller" to contact them directly
• Coordinate payment and shipping details with the seller
• Many sellers accept Venmo, PayPal, or other methods
• PageantTree does not handle payments for these transactions

💡 Tip: For legacy listings, ask for tracking info and confirm delivery when possible. Consider asking sellers if they can convert their listing to use the Buy Button for a more secure transaction.

5. Track Your Orders

For platform-mediated purchases (Buy Button):

• View all your orders in My Orders
• Track shipping status and tracking numbers
• Request refunds if items don't match description or aren't received
• Message sellers directly from your order details

For legacy message-only purchases, coordinate tracking and delivery directly with the seller through messaging.

6. Favorite, Follow, and Review

You can favorite listings to keep track of them, follow your favorite sellers or vendors, and leave feedback once your transaction is complete. This helps build a stronger community.

Happy shopping — and may your next outfit be a showstopper! 👑