How to spot fake branded clothing

Counterfeits are common in branded clothing and shoes. You don't need to be an expert to catch most of them; a few signs you can check in photos or at handover are enough.

Common signs of a fake

• Price: far below market for a famous brand = the first warning.
• Logo: uneven spacing, spelling errors, or imprecise lines in the logo and text.
• Stitching: irregular stitches, loose threads, or untidy edges.
• Hardware: light or cheap buttons and zippers (originals often carry the brand name on the zip).
• Tags: an inner tag printed at poor quality or missing origin and size details.

Ask for proof

Ask for a photo of the receipt, product card, or original box, and clear photos of the logo, inner tag, and stitching. An honest seller of a genuine piece won't mind providing them.

Genuine used vs. new fake

A genuine used piece in good condition is often a better buy than a "new" fake at the same price: better material and longer life. Don't be fooled by the word "new" alone.