Most of us love the attention that we get by wearing designer goods, be it shoes, handbags, clothing, watches and so on. The effect of wearing or using such goods goes beyond just the attention especially for fashion aficionados because it also gives the wearer/user the sense of satisfaction, confidence and coolness.
Nowadays, you can find designer goods at designer boutiques, specialized outlets, independent outlets as well as online stores. Most people (whether or not they have money) would of cause look for bargains when buying designer stuff. However, buying cheap sometimes poses risks of getting cheated.
With today's technology development and globalisation, fake designer goods have evolved into a booming business whereby, the products gets better and better that even the customer can't easily tell the difference between the genuine designer products from the fake ones. This is even harder for consumers to determine when the shopping is done via online. Here are some tips before you buy the so called "cheap" designer goods.
1. BUY FROM TRUSTED SOURCE
If the designer goods are cheap and come from trusted outlets or online retailers (usually featured in well-known fashion magazines), then, it is quite safe to buy them. However, you still have to be careful if the goods are featured in the online auction websites since it is not easy to proof the authenticity of such goods.
2. DON'T BE FOOLED
Don't be easily fooled by product descriptions because in most cases, even fake goods are described as being authentic, original or even a special collectors' item. Usually you can see these nice descriptions on the goods sold in online auction sites.
3. INSPECT THE PRODUCT WORKMANSHIP
Designer goods are known for its excellent and detailed workmanship. You have to look carefully at the small details like the linings, zippers and buckles or chains on the goods whether they achieve the high quality standard. Check out also on the stitches. The stitches should be accurate and consistent throughout the products. Look out also on the brand logo and brand name printed or engraved on the goods. Check out for misspells of the brand name, the size of the logo and so on.
4. LOOK AT THE MATERIAL USED
The materials used must be of a high quality standard. For instance, shoes or handbags must be made of genuine leather and not synthetic leather. For watches, it has to be stainless steel or titanium and not chromed metals.
5. BE ALERT WITH THE PRODUCT DESIGN
Be alert with the season's collection or design of the product range on the premier brands. You can find out more about this through some research at the designer boutiques, fashion magazines or internet. The design must be consistent with the products produced by the premier brand.
6. THE PACKAGING AND WARRANTIES
Usually your designer goods come in special packaging like special boxes and paper bags. Some products like watches and handbags may have warranty cards attached to it. However you have to be careful because nowadays, even fake goods also come with similar packaging and fake warranties.
7. BEWARE OF THE PRICE TAG
If such designer products are going cheaper and cheaper, most probably the goods are not even genuine. You must remember that designer goods like shoes, handbags and watches from leading brands are substantial investment for some collectors and therefore it is impossible that these goods are priced so "dirt" cheap.