Posted by Ursula Wagner
Authenticity in Designer Fashion: How We Guarantee the Real Thing
In the world of second hand fashion, authenticity is everything. When it comes to high-end designer pieces, trust is key – no one wants to spend big on a dream bag that turns out to be a fake.
At Designer Second Hand Vienna, authenticity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a core value. We want you to feel confident with every purchase, whether in-store or online. That’s why we’ve created clear processes to ensure every item we sell is authentic. Here’s exactly how we do it:
1. Our Promise: Quality You Can See – and Feel
With years of experience in designer fashion, we’ve developed a trained eye for detail. Some fakes are obvious at first glance – others require careful inspection.
But that’s our standard: we don’t sell anything unless we’re 100% sure it’s real. And we don’t rely on sketchy internet “certificates.” Instead, we trust in expertise, transparency, and solid internal processes.
2. How We Identify Real Pieces
We don’t rely on gut feelings. Every item is carefully examined using our knowledge and experience.
We check for:
• Craftsmanship: clean, symmetrical stitching, quality lining
• Hardware: zippers, clasps, chains – weight, color & engraving matter
• Materials: real leather or canvas – never plastic-like textures
• Logos & Lettering: proper spacing, typography & positioning
• Serial Codes: brand-specific codes, tags, or holograms
We especially know what to look for in brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior and Gucci. Even small clues like dust bags, tags or magnetic closures can help confirm authenticity.
3. Documents & Original Packaging – When Available
When customers bring us items, we always welcome:
• Original invoices
• Brand-issued authenticity cards
• Warranty or care cards
• Dust bags or boxes
These help us trace the item’s origin – but don’t worry: you can still consign or sell without them. Lack of papers doesn’t mean automatic rejection – we examine every piece.
4. When in Doubt: We Consult Experts
For especially rare or vintage pieces – like a vintage Chanel or LV bag – we go the extra mile. If we’re not completely sure, we send the item to trusted external experts for a full professional review or spa treatment.
Their invoice is the only verification we consider truly reliable – no “certificates” from shady sources. We don’t sell uncertainty.
5. Our Stance on Fake Certificates
There are tons of “authenticity cards” online – they look professional, but many are worthless. Some are issued without even seeing the product in person.
At Designer Second Hand Vienna, we completely reject this practice. Instead, we rely on:
• internal checks
• years of expertise
• certified restoration partners
No fake peace-of-mind. Just real, verifiable authenticity.
Our rule: If we can’t guarantee it’s real, we don’t sell it.
6. Trustworthy Shopping – Online & Offline
Whether you’re browsing our online store or visiting us in Vienna – your trust means everything to us.
That’s why we offer:
• detailed product images (including all key features)
• honest descriptions (incl. condition & history)
• personal advice via email, DM or in-store
• careful packaging & secure shipping
And if you’re unsure about anything, we’re always here to help – no pressure, no sales tricks. Just open, honest guidance.
7. Our Goal: Second Hand Shopping with Confidence
We believe in the power of second hand designer fashion. Not just because it’s sustainable – but because it gives access to iconic fashion without creating waste.
But that access must come with safety. That’s why we choose knowledge, quality and full transparency.
When you shop with us, you can be sure:
• every item has been checked
• every detail has been verified
• every product has a real story
Designer second hand is beautiful, inspiring and empowering – but it deserves clear standards and real responsibility.
At Designer Second Hand Vienna, authenticity isn’t a marketing phrase – it’s a lived practice.
For your trust. For your signature piece. For a better kind of fashion.