Make sure you’re getting the real deal when buying second hand clothes

The second-hand market can be a godsend if you want to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank. But how can you be sure that you’re buying the real deal?

According to official data, one in four people who bought second-hand clothes in the last year unknowingly purchased a counterfeit item.

In many cases, the items turned out to be of poor quality, deteriorated rapidly, and led to refund disputes with the seller.

So the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has issued new guidance to help people shop safely and avoid fakes.

How to check an item’s authenticity

If you want to make sure that you’re getting the real deal from platforms like Vinted and Depop, there are several practical steps you can take.

Look at the seller’s profile

Does the seller have strong ratings and positive feedback from previous buyers?

If they have a good track record of successful transactions, you can feel more confident that you’ll get what you pay for.

Check item photos and description

When you’re eyeing up a designer item, take a close look at photos for details like labels, sizes and swing tags to see if they match what you’d expect.

Pay through the platform

Don’t transfer money directly to the seller. 

Only make payments through the platform’s integrated payment method.

Use platform verification and buyer protection tools

Many resale platforms now offer authentication services or buyer protection policies for higher-value items. 

If these tools are available, it’s worth using them for extra peace of mind.

Inspect the item when it arrives

Even if everything looked legitimate online, check the item carefully once it arrives. 

Look closely at stitching, seams, materials and logo placement.

Genuine designer products are usually made with consistent, high-quality finishes.

Trust your instincts on pricing

Remember the old adage that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

Authentic designer pieces rarely sell at extremely low prices, especially if they’re in excellent condition or from a popular brand.

Ask questions before buying

If you’re not sure about anything, message the seller and ask for additional photos, proof of purchase or more information about the item’s condition and history. 

A genuine seller will usually be happy to help.

What should I do if I’ve been caught out?

If you’ve unwittingly bought a counterfeit item, you can raise a dispute through the platform’s buyer protection and dispute process.

You can also complain to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline, or report what’s happened to Report Fraud.

“The UK’s pre-loved fashion trade is a booming market that’s good for bargain hunters and for the environment,” said Kanishka Narayan, minister for online safety and intellectual property.

“No one should have to gamble that a good deal might be a fake deal." 

Helen Barnham of the IPO added: “Second-hand isn’t second best - but a counterfeit always is.
 
“The pre-loved market is a brilliant option for anyone who wants to dress well without breaking the bank. 

“As the market grows, maintaining trust and confidence online becomes even more important.” 

Where can I buy second-hand clothes?

If you want to update your wardrobe without paying over the odds, there are plenty of options available.

Charity shops

Charity shops are packed full of bargains from high street brands, designer labels and everything in between.

And you get the added satisfaction of helping a good cause at the same time.

Online marketplaces

Platforms like Vinted, eBay and Facebook Marketplace mean you can buy second-hand clothes without even having to leave the house.

So they’re well worth checking out if you fancy a bargain, or looking for an outfit for a specific occasion without paying more than you can afford.

We’ve put together some handy tips on buying and selling on these platforms to help you get started.

Pre-loved sections at shops

Several major retailers, such as Primark, have embraced the growing popularity of second-hand clothes by adding sections full of pre-loved items in some stores.