Tips on how to bag a genuine designer bargain

Before I had a child, a house, a car, a dog... the list goes on... I have a lot of expendable income and man did I like to spend it.

I had an array of designer clothes, bags, shoes and accessories.

I’m no going to lie, some of them I don’t own any more as I had to sell in order to afford to pay for the child, house, car and dog at particularly cash-strapped moments.

I sold the majority of them online – which is where I bought the majority of them originally.

But when I bought them I was always very careful about whether or not they are genuine designer items.

It is a lot easier being able to inspect them in person but unfortunately there are so many filters and literally everyone can use Photoshop to erase or add in details which potential customers will be looking out for.

While the majority of us are now embracing a more sustainable way of shopping – with many purchasing designer clobber with their expendable income (lucky buggers!) it is now more important than ever to be aware of how to spot a fake and how to know that you are buying a legitimate label.

So the good people at www.for-sale.co.uk have revealed five steps to consider when shopping for second-hand items.

Whether buying in person or through digital re-sale sites such as Depop, eBay or Vinted these tips could save you stress and money, and ensure you get an authentic pre-owned win.

Research the item before purchasing

Completing research on a designer item you’re scouting before viewing the product can prevent you from being overcharged by the seller.

Some sources, such as eBay, can help you find the average price of a piece to know what you could expect to pay.

Therefore, it’s crucial to remain cautious with the growth in interest for ‘vintage’ second-hand items, and to avoid making any impulsive decisions by having prior knowledge on the maximum price you’re willing to pay.

Tips to tell if an item is authentic

Considering design aspects is an important part when buying second-hand.

Looking for details such as colour and quality of stitching is a crucial detail to note, or the logo pattern can be an indicator if something is not the real deal.

Having a reference image of the genuine designer bag from the official site, for example, when comparing it in person or the online marketplace you’re purchasing from, can be a way to look for small details about the item’s legitimacy. Another key detail to spot is an authentication card and serial number to ensure it’s genuine.

Making sure an item is in good condition

There are a few steps to ensure an item is in good condition. Firstly, thoroughly examine the clothing or accessory to check for any dirt marks or isn’t overly worn.

A way to make sure the item you plan on buying is in good condition is to go through a seller who allows you to inspect the piece prior to purchasing.

Signs of a genuine seller/luxury label

A good indication of a reputable seller is their rating and reviews from previous buyers. Are there any complaints; for example, ‘the photos were different to the item received’ or low ratings are red flags to be mindful of. In these cases, it’s best to look for alternative sellers where people’s interaction and buying experience have been positive, indicating a trusted seller.

It’s equally a good idea to check an online seller’s profile to see if all the fields are filled and if there is a business logo or image of the seller, which can help indicate if it’s a trusted salesperson.

Ask for images when buying online

If buying through resale sites such as Depop, ask for additional photos; if the ones provided aren’t sufficient, extra images can help you determine if the item is legitimate.

If the seller refuses to send additional photos, that can be a sign to buy through somewhere else.