Buzz
Anyone familiar with shopping for vintage clothing and accessories knows it can be a bit of a gamble. You have to approach it with the knowledge that these garments are usually old (or at least they should be), which means they’ve likely been worn and might not be in perfect, flawless condition.
But how can you determine if something is truly authentic? Well, that depends on several factors, including what you define as 'authentic'—such as whether the item is genuinely old or simply a new piece designed in a vintage style.
And then there’s the issue of counterfeits. This may not be a concern with something like a Basic Editions T-shirt from the mid-1990s, but it becomes important when dealing with high-end luxury brands and designers. So, how do you know if a vintage item is genuine or if it’s just an attempt to overcharge you? Here’s what you need to look out for.
Ensure the Items Justify Their Price
Just to clarify: we’re not referring to thrift store items, where prices are generally low, and sometimes tied to nonprofit causes. We’re talking about actual vintage boutiques and online shops, where collections are carefully curated and prices are significantly higher. Since you’re paying a premium for these items, you want to be certain you’re receiving good value and not falling victim to a scam.
How to Identify if a Vintage Item is a Fake
So, how can you tell if something’s a fake? According to Jillian Clark, a costume designer in Los Angeles, it really depends on how convincing the counterfeit is. Here are three tips she shared in an interview with Real Simple:
Examine the Logo
“Most counterfeits are easy to spot based on the logo or design they attempt to imitate,” Clark explained to Real Simple. “Usually, the design will be subtly altered, making it almost undetectable to an unsuspecting buyer.”
Examine the Label
When it comes to vintage designer pieces, Clark mentions that many items will feature an 'authenticity label' or their original tags, which are difficult to replicate.
Buy from a Trusted Vintage Seller
Lastly, Clark recommends sticking with vintage clothing dealers you know and trust—who won’t attempt to sell you counterfeit items in the first place.
