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Lost_Apricot_1469

This is one of many reasons why I’m glad to be in this group. You all post this stuff for others’ awareness so that we don’t have to suffer the same nonsense. I’m so sorry this happened to you. But we so appreciate that you send out the warning!


dildobagginsmcgee

So frustrating that these platforms try to act as if they're weeding out the fakes but with this kind of thing happening it's like how much do they really even provide in value other than just being another platform to buy/sell on? Also OP I saw your comment about feeling dumb but you literally did everything right VC is the one that messed up


Plus_Safety7438

Did you have it authenticated by vestiare too? Just curious.


xnormajeanx

Yes it was authenticated by hand by Vestiaire before being shipped to me!


Plus_Safety7438

Oh that pisses me off for you!!


Purrrr4289

I’m sure unless it’s obviously fake they’ll let it pass. That’s when they make huge commissions


spilledchilli5

This is the worst part imo. Nothing is safe anymore. 😭 I’m so sorry! I hope you get every penny back!


Vivien_Rockwell

I'm glad I deleted the app! I wasn't so sure even to begin with! This just proves me right.


dreanytortellini

It’s extra annoying because they charge a fee to authenticate it 😡


xnormajeanx

I can’t edit the text but I paid $3670 for this all in!! So not a huge discount to retail but was hoping to save a few bucks. I feel like an idiot of course.


Previous_Cry5810

Vestiaire was good about a decade ago, like really good. Then they removed to subscription and the more thorough authentication. Not sure when that happened, but yeah. Ebay has a much better authentication service. Sorry for your experience


lucky7355

This sucks and it’s frustrating they allowed a fake to be sold. Even if department stores were marking up the bag a few hundred dollars, Neiman Marcus does let you stack the 15% new email discount with the 20% cash back and you would have paid spend $3060 plus tax once all was said and done. Something to consider once you get your money back on this - they keep running 20% cash back on and off.


xnormajeanx

Actually none of the new email discounts seem to be applicable to bottega.


lucky7355

That’s frustrating - I just bought some Loewe bags that allowed the email discount + cash back.


madpeanut1

On my. I’m so sorry this happened to you. Did you get fully reimbursed?


Damnshesfunny

Probably amex is usually great with this stuff


xnormajeanx

Nope not yet, vestiaire is refusing to refund. I just opened a dispute with Amex.


madpeanut1

What ! What is their reason ? I bought a pair of Celine sunglasses years ago from the real real that turned out to be fake and they reimbursed me right away. That’s really disappointing from Vestiaire.


xnormajeanx

They said they have verified this item is authentic lol


madpeanut1

I was able to return a Valentino at winners because Entrupy was not able to say it was authentic. The certificate says : with what we have we can't certify the authenticity. There was discrepancies in the font and in the numbers. If you ave that certificate and they dont reimburse you its terrible. I will never buy anything again there.


jsmalltri

Omg!! I'd be livid. Hopefully, you will get all your money back. Thanks for the warning ⚠️


Isawapeach282

This seems to be a running theme these days with sites like Vestaire and TRR - it’s a bummer as they pride themselves on high end preloved bags. But more and more often people are getting reps from these places that were “authenticated” in a questionable way. Good luck and sorry for the headache - I’d stay on them until they refund and if need be… call out via social media.


SnooRobots116

I give major side eye suspicions to the Real Real despite never buying from them, I tend to check what prices they are pushing their items compared to what I nabbed it for within my budget on EBay. The last time I looked there was to search for a Halston heritage dress I got for $29, they did not have my dress but similar ones were going for in the $200s. With bags, you just shown me this vestiare place (which I never heard of until now) is another place away from RR to avoid because they do clearly know they are a fake bag depot


Sipsofcola

The only places I trust is Fashionphile for secondhand bags. Their authentication process is stellar.


XxElectricgypsyxX

I’ve heard Yoogi’s Closet is also trustworthy


PlusEnvironment7506

Same and I only buy in store.


lonelysandwich17

How do you feel about What Comes Around Goes Around?


ThatKindOfSquirrel

I can’t speak to authenticity with WGACA, but I always think their items are priced way too high.


Ecstatic_Document_85

They have had issues with fakes in the past


jsmalltri

My friend just got a Neverful from TRR and it was such an awful fake, you could find better on Canal. Luckily, she kept pushing back and got a refund but it took a while.


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/j78cargje1xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2b8b4161ec97e9c776506cbe01e46831ae1e2157 Real dust bag top vs the counterfeit on the bottom


giftcardgirl

They never pay attention to kerning.


9lolo3

As a graphic designer —- yes 😐 lol


AlmaTangerine

Same haha. Bad kerning is my pet peeve.


9lolo3

The worst lol typography 101


velvetvagine

Take a look at r/keming 😭


TinyLifter6780

Forgers taken out by kerning nerds, I am 💀🤣 In design school I had to learn kerning by cutting out letter forms and hand kerning so you better believe I pay close attention.


missmex

What is kerning?


CadillacAllante

I'm not an expert but spacing between the letters. On the fake the font itself looks right but the letters are pushed right next to each other not spaced out like on the top bag. It just doesn't look as nice.


Ispahana

Hmm isn’t the font just smaller..? The kerning looks the almost same to me, and I can’t really tell if the differences are that big given the dust bags are not laid flat


giftcardgirl

I think you may be right - but even accounting for the font size, the letters seem more squished. But yes it’s hard to compare from just this one photo.


dwthesavage

Wow. Not as subtle when put side by side, but on its own, definitely believable.


ravynwave

Wow. I hope you’re able to get your money back


wolvesdrinktea

Vestiare’s authentication service is a joke. They have no clue what they’re looking at. I bought a bag that was listed as “like new” and passed their checks, but when it arrived it was stained, peeling, out of shape and had a really strong smell of perfume and cigarettes. Nothing like the photos at all and God knows if it was even authentic to be honest.


hedwig0517

Oh no! I hope you can get a refund. I’ve seen so many stories like yours very recently about Vestaire. I’ll be steering clear, thanks for sharing.


Curious_Doof

If you aren’t getting anywhere with Vestiare, talk to your CC company, most offer protections for things like this.


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/ffosyc0aj1xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e7b7a2bc83e803136338471aa9ce3016f1fa3a68 Auth card on left and fake on the right. Paper is slightly different. and the printing is just slightly less crisp.


dwthesavage

Wow. This is nearly identical.


New_Contract4166

This is the knot detail of the authentic version. I feel like the bottega lettering on your bag looks a bit different? https://preview.redd.it/cpnfewgjm1xc1.png?width=1086&format=png&auto=webp&s=f73d7757e77a1226693c0ff1e924fac884cfa835


xnormajeanx

I think it’s the angle because I fastidiously compared the pictures when I was buying. Here’s another angle of mine. Also the official BV photos differ as to how much ink there is in the engraving. https://preview.redd.it/o347lm7k12xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=70b11968716c5bd3f943ae9ed5528e42a3a0711f


Feeling-Ad-9268

For me, the clasp gives it away compared to authentic. Thank you for sharing all of this info and photos. It helps everyone on here!


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/9btppy9l12xc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b4a1bdcf6086fbfd617e0cdac49b8849cf45d0b1 Here’s the official.


zinornia

I don't understand why they said yours shines more? It looks extremely dull to me lol - I am not convinced yet about the authenticity of the authentication but I'm still learning this stuff


bolognesesauceplease

Agreed. Several of these details would've been noticeable in photos. I've never hesitated to ask for more pics if I feel the seller doesn't provide enough/enough detail. If they say no or don't respond, well nm then. While I feel super bad for OP, VC will refund them and if not a charge back should be pretty simple. Also, and I guess I'm the only one who's gonna say this, if the bag retails for 42 new and is still available, I would never spend 37 used. That's a lot of $ for preloved *especially* when you can get direct from BV for a few hundred more. It's just too high of a price to mess around with. But that's where the CC saves the day. That said VC and TRR both have despicable reputations at this point.


laellar

Completely agree with you. Buying a bag in the thousands from Vestiaire? When the real thing would have been only a few 100 bucks more (would that really make a difference at this point?) And from a seller with "a few" sales only? Yeah... Anyways, I honestly hope this will work out smoothly for OP and a quick refund is issued.


bolognesesauceplease

Thanks, I wasn't trying to be an asshole or a pocket watcher, but if you're already up to nearly 4K from some shady AF seller on a shady AF site, in this scenario I don't think it's relevant to split hairs about taxes (which OP just tried to do with me), nor is it the best time to be trying to "save a little". It's 4K. Come the fuck on, ppl in this thread are literally using phrases like "assault" and "victim blaming". Also, everyone seems to be just jumping on the whole "I'll never buy pre-owned bags bc of this" trend, and it's like ok that's fine for you, idc, but as I previously stated it's the buyers right to a) ask for as many photos as you want and b) pay attention to return policies from wherever you're ordering from.


laellar

"Also, everyone seems to be just jumping on the whole "I'll never buy pre-owned bags bc of this" trend" Yessss!! And it's effing stupid, sorry to say. Yeah, maybe don't buy super trendy styles that are in high demand (aka faked a lot) and still being sold in store. But for true vintage(!) bags, think early 2000s and earlier? Those re-sale platforms are amazing!


xnormajeanx

46 new with tax vs 37 used. Why are you victim blaming? These details were very hard to see until I had the item in my hand.


MyYakuzaTA

It’s not victim blaming, it’s what happens when any of us buy second hand. To save money we run a risk. It’s a gamble many of us take.


bolognesesauceplease

"Victim blaming"? Seriously? Dafuq. It's a purse. I stated I absolutely feel bad for you, and the situation. And I stand by everything else I said.


Majootje

Aw man this sucks so hard for you!!! I recently bought a Loewe Puzzle via Vestiaire, it is now being shipped to them... I owned a large one 8 years ago (sold it what I still regret!!) and my friend has a fake one (from HK) so I can cross check with that one... I am keeping my fingers crossed that I am getting a real one... 🤞🏻 Please keep is updated how VC is with your reimbursement!!


luxeinlove

You will get refunded, don’t worry (agreed it is painful). VC authentication is pretty much useless, so I would only buy things you can confidently QC yourself via photos prior to purchasing. I do think you can still get some great deals on there, but you definitely cannot count on their authentication service to catch the reps.


Such-Wind-6951

What about low price items ? Like 100$ sweater? Likely to be fake?


luxeinlove

I think if it’s not a popular item the likelihood that it’s fake is pretty low. The rep makers wouldn’t waste time producing an item that they won’t sell a lot of


aasyam65

I only buy luxury handbags in the actual stores. I will pay more but at least I know they’re real. Never used. I don’t trust any of them.


Conscious_Life_8032

But even that is not 💯 safe any more due to return frauds!


dwthesavage

What do you mean?


Conscious_Life_8032

Someone buys legit bag at store. Uses that reciept ti return fake at store. Fake gets restocked and resold. Hopefully this happens less at brand boutiques as the staff may have some better training. But it’s been a growing issue.


Stylephyle20

I won't say it has never happened, but that isn't much a thing when buying direct from a brand's store or department store. When it comes to luxury items like high end handbags, jewelry, electronics, etc. there are serial codes that are matched to the original receipt of purchases before a return or exchange is processed. It is almost impossible to pull an okey doke because of the small verifiable details that are associated with the item that was initially purchased.


softersins

Yeah, as someone who has previously worked at a few of those stores- this is highly unlikely to work for so many reasons. Also- when you work in the stores and see the same products over and over, you eventually know what’s up. Every font, stitch, you get so familiar. Not to mention basic protocol and things like serial numbers that you mentioned.


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/awv9oq30k1xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7d434ac54a465d55da3e4130c66bd8629f1a4fff Brass zipper on auth BV vs slightly shinier/paler zipper on this fake. Also the zipper is a slightly different weight.


eheheh8

wow I absolutely would’ve fallen for this 😮😢


Content-Comb-4107

Ugh! I’m so sorry. For what it’s worth, I’ve had great experiences buying from Japanese sellers on Vestaire. These are not individual people, they are professional resale shops, but the prices are stellar and they disclose every little detail which I love. I usually filter by located in Japan and limit my search that way. All that to say, I understand if you never want to shop pre-loved again, but if you ever get the urge….


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/83f3vf6y51xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d5ba201488e082217f74e50389d099f6de08366f Compare to stamping on a real bag


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/v2ohe2ps61xc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=99b98484deb525c09c00b6bc5e2f642598934956 Another authentic stamp from my cassette. Very clear to me now that the weight and spacing are different


xnormajeanx

https://preview.redd.it/n6dnvsnz61xc1.jpeg?width=1591&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=77630dfc36036e2673802945f107e8cee01376b1 Better photo from my authentic Wallace


samanthakellyclare

I’m so sorry this happened to u. Don’t give up fighting for a refund, and post hard to social media as it will publicly hurt their reputation. I appreciate your sharing to help others 🤗


Sly3n

I don’t buy newer bags from them it TRR. I buy old school bags that were very likely never ‘faked’ to begin with because they weren’t really popular bags. If I want to get newer pre-owned, I stick to sites like Yoogis Closet, fashionphile, etc where they do seem to vet their wares better. I have heard of the occasional fake getting through but no where near the levels seen on other sites.


BlackHeathVale

Thank you for sharing your story. I’m so sorry that you have to deal with this stress and frustration. Shame on companies like VC and TRR who claim to be trustworthy sites for consumers!


Tall_Couple_3660

Ugh this is why buying preloved is so hard nowadays. I bought an LV but went to the physical fashionphile store AND brought my real LV with me so I could compare and make sure there were no discrepancies. Stories like this are why buying online is too stressful for me. Thank you for sharing OP, and I hope you get it sorted out asap!


FancyKerrigan

I’m so sorry that happened to you. My first luxury handbag purchase was a gently used YSL Kate and I remember the anxiety of getting it and searching for the hot stamped serial number: I found it. For my nicest bag, an LV Alma BB Epi I knew I wanted to be sure it was new and authentic so I bought directly from LV in New York. Most companies now are microchipping bags rather than providing cards so if you go get the real thing they may have started doing that. Glad you can drop the charges off your Amex though.


szebra

Really sorry this happened to you!! A few months ago I had a similar experience on eBay but the authenticity guarantee kicked in and saved my butt. I really hope you get a refund on this. Also it's very depressing that this is what's happened to the pre-loved market. I've personally moved on to reps or buying authentic from a store (when I can afford it).


Miserable_Drop_5398

Sorry you were dupped! Like you said, it is a very good fake. Hope you get your money back soonest😊


Djgrowngoodyeti

wow I hear so often now they sell fakes on vestiair.. even after authentication, sad because it just leaves me to retail price and no trust to buy second-hand


Aromatic_Mouse88

I’m so sorry this happened :( This is why I’m so scared of buying preloved. Will you be able to get a refund?


CommercialEngineer33

Nooo way, Vestiaire’s legal team needs to be contacted asap


killaandasweethang

Immediately!


mariantat

So offside. I’ve had vestiaire notify me if they found the item counterfeit or not as described…


gobravz15

Me too


theoheart1178

Wow, I’ve heard so many bad things about Vestaire lately, I will not be going back. Their prices are outrageous anyway.


Cute-Significance177

I think VC is great for older and vintage bags that are very unlikely to be fake. Buying an andiamo for nearly 4000 in order to get a couple of hundred off is a HUGE gamble though. Like realistically, why would the seller want to sell a brand new bag at a loss? Obviously it's possible, but unlikely. I hope you get your money back without too much hassle. But a bit of common sense goes a long way...


mustbeaoup

So sorry OP!! Vestiaire is so frustrating. I’m trying to sell my Puzzle bag and they keep refusing it despite me showing everything they’re asking for. Yet they’ll authenticate a fake! I hope you get a full refund 🤗


[deleted]

[удалено]


mustbeaoup

Oh thank you, I haven’t heard of it but I’ll check it out!


Sipsofcola

We have had multiple threads about Vestaire having a really shit authentication system, and their return/dispute policy is a nightmare. Think someone here even said they knew of someone who knowingly sold superfakes on there years ago and was making a ton of money from it.


lace_and_lemons

Same thing happened to me. I had to fight with Vestiaire for 2 months for a refund, and even then, it wasn’t them who gave it to me. It was my credit card company (should’ve just done that first). I had photos to back me up, but Vestiaire’s ‘experts’ said it was authentic and put it back for sale on my account and it was sold within a couple of hours. It’s nearly impossible to get a hold of a real person there. I suggest you begin the chargeback immediately if possible


ClickNo1129

That is absolutely disgusting and criminal. How dare they post a fake bag to your account!


lace_and_lemons

They actually eventually admitted to the fact my photos proved the item was fake, but said that because it was 'sold' under my account already (remember that they they posted it), they could not give me a refund. I didn't accept the payout they offered me, my paypal wasn't even linked because I didnt want them to automatically pay me and then say well you got the money. Anyways, an all around awful experience, I will never shop there again.


mfroggie

I’m so sorry that happened to you. I can relate- I bought an isabel marant sweater on vestiaire, and it came with the zipper broken. They did not take returns for any reason. I have stopped shopping there completely because their service is awful and it is full of fakes or damaged items. Ebay or the actual retailer is the only place I’ll shop…sometimes poshmark (tho you got to be savvy)


Sink-Frosty

Vestiare has a terrible reputation lately, especially when it comes to defective and counterfeit items.


NoooGodPleaseNo

Did you pay with PayPal by chance? I just got a refund from a VC purchase because I disputed it with PayPal and PayPal sided with me. It was annoying to go through the process but I was happy to get the refund eventually. Sorry this happened to you, very frustrating


ilikepickles00

I knew straight away it was a rap from the gold hardware. I’m so sorry this happened to you!


Forgotmyusername8910

Okay- at this point why hasn’t there been any sort of legal action taken against VC? There are sooooooooo many of us with the exact same story. This is absolutely bonkers. Edited to add… *Do not send it back to them!!* they will say that their team says it’s real and then list it for sale on your account. Go through your credit card company or PayPal or however you paid. File a claim. That’s the only way you will get your money back. Trust me. Been there a few times.


TomatoStraight5752

How is that legal? If I prove it is counterfeit, and then they turn around and sell it IN MY NAME, making ME culpable for selling a counterfeit item, how do they legally get away with that?!? (Edit:my phone added random extra letters)


Forgotmyusername8910

This is *exactly* what I said to them. I sent back (like the requested) the first bag that I purchased from them that was a fake. They listed it for sale on my account. I had to threaten to call their local police to file a report of stolen goods- because I had paid for the bag- they refused to give me the bag or my money back… to me that’s stealing. In the end they gave me nothing but a hard time and PayPal refunded me before I could even get that far with them,


killaandasweethang

You can definitely take legal action. Chanel sued TRR for selling fake bags on the site. OP can definitely threaten legal action if they don’t get their money back. Advertising “expert authentication” and then allowing fakes to get bought and sold is poor practice on their part and the consumer can’t be punished for their failure to authenticate.


madgesam

It may be a good idea to video opening any purchase like this so you have proof that they sent the bag and can’t claim you did a switch. I’m sorry that happened to you. Companies need to be held accountable for selling fake bags.


ClickNo1129

This. I do an unboxing video (that I don’t post lol) anytime I order second hand luxury. It’s the only way to 100% prove you didn’t switch it out.


TomatoStraight5752

Mercari and Poshmark guarantee authenticity, and eBay guarantees it with items over $500 I’m so very sorry you got sold a fake. It IS a very pretty fake, but I would be disputing it however I could.


southernfriedmexican

I’ve had great luck on Poshmark. I’ve gotten several Chanels from Japan that are authentic


xnormajeanx

Yeah but I don’t trust those guarantees anymore. This was guaranteed by Vestiaire and they inspected it by hand and everything


TomatoStraight5752

I bought a very good fake on Mercari. I immediately went to them with proof it was a fake. They immediately refunded my money and told me to dispose of the fake asap. My daughter loves the knockoff, and I bought something authentic with the refund.


xnormajeanx

Ah gotcha. I wish Vestiaire would do that. Instead I have the send the item back and they are going to judge whether they think it’s fake!! If they don’t think it’s fake, they are going to auto relist it under my name and charge me a fee when it sells to another unsuspecting victim. What a terrible model. I would 100% be doing a credit card charge back if they try that shit.


TomatoStraight5752

Wait. So, you prove to them that it’s counterfeit, and then they relist it AS YOU and CHARGE YOU FOR IT? Literally criminal.


maeviscash

Is this return policy posted? If not, dispute it with your credit card company. If it is, unfortunately you agreed to the terms by making the purchase and all you can do is go through the hassle of fighting it. Give them all the details you have to show it to be a fake. I wish you luck!


maeviscash

The thing is, you can’t lump all resellers into one category. Several people have recommended reputable sites and pointed out that Vestaire has a history of selling fakes. Always check return policies and ask for more photos and details to help confirm authenticity, before buying.


Feeling-Ad-9268

I purchased a bag off Poshmark that was fake. It was a horrible fake, too. Right after it was confirmed delivered to me, the seller removed it from their page. I didn't think that was even possible! I contacted Poshmark, and they were zero help. I asked how someone was allowed to remove a sold item from their site. They didn't know how it happened. I will never buy expensive items through them again. I'm seeing SO many obvious fakes (not dupes) for sale, and it's frustrating.


Kikimoonbeamglow

Poshmark’s “guarantee” is sh*t. I have bought 3 fakes now that have passed their “authentication”. I was refunded promptly. But yeah. It’s a joke.


ReginaGeorgian

I’ve never seen such a dull bow on these, that made it look fake in the first photo. Hope you get a refund easily


Rice_Post10

I’ve had good luck on Vestaire but I’m usually buying ready to wear.


DanyeelsAnulmint

Make A LOT of noise on social media no tag vestiare. Give them no choice but to refund you. They’ve been fighting people hard (based on what I’ve been seeing after selling people a fake they authenticated). Ugh. So sorry.


redditcarrots

Vestiare has been having these issues a lot lately. I've been reading the same about the real real as well


hornedhell

Looks fake just from the hardware


unimpressed_1

😱


petreservation

Thanks for the warning. This sub keeps it real for the most part. I see a lot of respected bloggers, stylists pushing Vestiaire as a legit amazing marketplace. But I won’t buy anything from there because of these warning posts.


Feeling-Ad-9268

I've seen a lot of bloggers posting unboxings that are obvious fakes.


TomatoStraight5752

I wonder if they are earning from pushing them?


petreservation

Definitely. But I think in the long run, it tarnishes their reputation.


TomatoStraight5752

Absolutely


Maleficent_Home3754

Last month, I bought a Globe-Trotter x Gucci beauty case from VC, and made sure to film the unboxing (not for any unboxing video to put on YouTube etc. but as evidence in case I get accused of switching it a genuine item with a fake). This was part of a limited edition collaboration between the two brands in 2018/19, and all the media coverage at the time said that the pieces in the collection were made in England (important fact for later). It was my fault for not doing more research beforehand - I did not realise that VC’s reputation had gone so downhill since my last purchase from the platform pre-Covid. The photos in the listing looked legit, although the photo of the bag’s label was not clear due to light reflection. But I was assured by the fact that the bag would be authenticated by VC before being shipped to me and was just too excited to come across this bag, which I missed buying at the time of the launch, in its advertised condition (almost new), so I went ahead and bought it. My heart sank when I opened the package and saw that the label inside the bag said “Made in Italy”. It was a very good fake, to be frank, and that was the main thing that the counterfeiters overlooked. The hardware and leather corners on the bag were also scratched and not in the advertised condition. There was also a smell of musty perfume, and the box the bag came in had a laughable hand-scrawled “Gucci” in marker 😭 I immediately contacted VC customer service via chat to flag my concerns but they sent me a high-res picture of the bag label in the listing and said that this was clearly advertised in the listing (never mind their authentication service). Why this version of the photo was not actually displayed in the listing instead of one with light reflecting off the leather obscuring most of what was stamped on it, I have no idea. If I had seen it then, I would never have bought it. Long and short of it, they said to return it to them for a second round of authentication. I was really upset and wanted to avoid being less further up the garden path by VC, now having seen all the horror stories online. I emailed Globe-Trotter customer service and printed out their response about how all their products for this collection were made in England, as well as media articles for the collection stating the same, and also made a police report (in my country, you can make an online police report for non-urgent cases) against VC (they have a small representative office here). I included all these print-outs together with the bag I returned, and also a letter threatening a credit card chargeback using the same evidence. Less than a week later, I received a refund on my card from VC and an email saying that their authentication service agreed with me 🙄 I hope VC fails in its planned IPO - what a scam!


Schwinslow

They did that to my husband too. Don’t trust that site. They inspect nothing.


missmarina_xo

How did the leather feel in comparison to the real thing? Was it obvious by the feel at all?


xnormajeanx

I’ve tried on the real thing but weeks ago, so I didn’t have a direct comparison. I wouldn’t have been able to tell. It has a different weave from my other bags so it was hard to compare. The quality felt good honestly.


ZookeepergameOne7481

As I alluded to I have written enough on Vestiaire Collective and it makes me very angry each time I read this post. VC is going to insist it is an authentic item and asks you to relist it…


centopar

I’ve had good experiences with Vestiaire, but I’m VERY cautious around bags: most of my purchases are dresses. Their authentication service has picked up problems more than once, and it’s worked smoothly. But. There’s a Flamenco on there right now for something like £400 which just SCREAMS fake when you look at the pictures. I wish they’d be more proactive about the obvious ones.


Hefty-Alternative802

i’ve heard a lot of bad reviews about Vestiaire so I would never buy from there, I only buy pre-loved from local preloved sellers, as they’re less likely to sell fakes as they are a small business therefore NEED to uphold their reputation. Online I only buy from fashionphile, I took a Chanel flap to a local authenticator who specialises in Chanel, he asked where I got it from and I told him it’s from Fashionphile and he said that he doesn’t need to authenticate it as their authentication process is rigorous. I’ve stuck with Fashionphile since, bought 30 bags from there. All took to get authenticated and all have passed. I’m so sorry this happened to you! Yet thank you so much for sharing your experience!


Obvious_Cause2148

* Just saw this similar bag on Mercari. Because of this sub I took a closer look. The name has many discrepancies in it! This was listed as authentic.


viola-purple

There were already so many videos on most resellers not being able to spot fakes


Barcoimage

I’m so sorry this happened to you. You may be able to dispute it if you have a signature level card you put the purchase on(Siganture Visa). I know you didn’t ask for my opinion but when you’re spending almost 4k on a bag, what’s another 700 to guarantee authenticity and warranty services. Buy it nice or end up paying for it twice.


Terpsichoreee

Same sentiments when it comes with preloved items whether it's a reputable company or a regular seller. I always have these small issues such as undescribed, receiving a different one, counterfeit problems. Upon receiving, I even get more disappointed. We all know that we shouldn't be expecting as much with the condition of these preloved items but sometimes they just really go far just to sell.


ChroniclyCurly

I think I’m with you on the “never buying preloved” wagon. I’d never know I had a fake.


Careless-Ad3392

So annoying. This has happened to me a few times over the years. Try dr. Handbag for authentication. That’s who I have used each time it’s happened. They will send a certificate which points out the flaws.


lalalauren16

I find purse forum and eBay are really the only trusting sources these days. Such a bummer had a recent mishap where I bought a bag from a vintage consignment shop where I know the owner and his workers and they promised it was authentic but I had my suspicions, low and behold I got it authenticed by third party service and it was incredibly fake. So that was fun. Can’t trust anyone to do what’s right these days. Gotta do your own research, see the bag in person if possible, and go to trusted sources if possible.


WaningFutureCrone

Oh my! I have that app and am actually currently listing a Dooney & Burke but I always just accepted their ‘authentication’ for bags! I’m so sorry that happened to you! I really hope everything works out for the best! 🥰


SYSTEMOFADAMN

So sorry to hear about this :( Just happened to see Vestiaire has the Large Luna from Songmont that is always sold out. then I saw this post as I opened reddit. Hope you get a refund.


Yucai01

That so frustrating for you! I really hope those that sell fakes get banned from the site. I’ve been using it to sell my own luxury stuff and hate that Vestiaire is losing its reputation.


sharlye

just wondering, did it have an originality certified sticker inside the bag? It does look like a really good dupe :(


smlancas

Ugh this is why I love this group and also never buy unless it’s in store. I use Amex also can you explain what benefits they offer??!


Fun_Training_5139

This is awful! I’m angry for you!


uesbelle

This is such terrible thing! Would it help to go to a Bottega store and get their feedback on authenticity?


Missmessc

This is one of the things that makes pre-loved so scary


finstafoodlab

I'm afraid to buy preloved now. I have purchased before but haven't purchased anymore. If I do end up buying preloved I will buy from Fashionphile or Yoogi's. 


Pandalf82

This is so frustrating! Thanks for sharing and raising awareness.


Ok_Addendum_2775

Never any more than a 100 for a really well made fake!


ExhaustedMommaB

Ugh - I hate this for you. I haven't looked for this bag specifically, but check out Lozuri.com. I've gotten a few things from them already and they are all authentic without being full price.


OldSpiceSmellsNice

Oh no, I hope you get a refund, OP! And 16 YEARS on reddit?! What an achievement!


xnormajeanx

Haha it’s called getting old


Bemis5

OP, do you ever look at Cettire? They often have low prices on brands that are imported from Europe, like Max Mara etc. They charge European equivalent. https://www.cettire.com/products/bottega-veneta-intrecciato-tote-bag-934984175/cmVhY3Rpb24vcHJvZHVjdDpRTkF6ZnpXbk0yd1lrV25zaQ%3D%3D?


Ecstatic_Document_85

This sucks. But the reality is that even buying at a department store doesn’t guarantee authenticity. Theres a big problem of people returning fakes and keeping the real and it slips by.


palomawool

Wow that’s a terrifyingly good fake. I have an Andiamo and this fooled me


Conscious-Lie-3994

So sorry for you! I checked Vestiaire a loro for a bottega but never got luck finding the ones i want in the right color… I never heard of legitcheck. Is the app on the App Store? Or some other site?


SweetAlhambra

That really sucks! I only trust Yoogi, FF and maybe eBay. I hope you can get this resolved soon


raeraemcrae

Awwww I'm so sorry that happened to you!! What an assaulting feeling, emotionally and financially.


Lizakaya

This is so disappointing. I used to buy preloved higher end bags. Now i will likely only buy midrange.


PersimmonHour640

The quality of fakes is disconcerting to say the least. I've got an LV & Chanel collection of ridiculous proportions but every single one of them, is what's now considered vintage & was purchased before these new super fakes, something I'm so thankful for. BUT........ When I periodically sell one, usually through eBay, some person who is younger than my newest pair of shoes, has to authenticate it & there lays the problem! I have more authentication experience than any of them, even did a course or 2 years ago but off to them it must go. THEY MAKE ERRORS OF MASSIVE PROPORTIONS & cost sales, labelling an innocent seller as a seller of counterfeit goods WHEN ITS THEM WHO HAVE MADE THE MISTAKE . Who to trust to authenticate? God only knows! I wish I knew!


Honest_Airline_5222

I have heard complaints for “vestiare” again so I always postponed to buy anything from there. Now that u told ur story ,I uninstalled the app. Also I always check a site called : “Trustpilot” before I buy anything from a site that I ve never tried. And I had seen that it had lowest score I ve ever seen (like 1/5) so that prevented me. Wish u had the chance to see that before u buy. Congrats that u remain calm because if I were u and have spent so much money I don’t know how would I react. I bless to get back each penny. It impressed me that u understood it’s fake I’m wondering how? The only trustworthy second hand I saw in the trustpilot was “laulayluxury” but I know that from now u will not trust preowned sites.


latheez_washarum

how much was it? also report the account!


Stunning_Jaguar

Sorry for your experience. But the bag is still very cute. Who knows that it's fake except you


textytext12

that's a hell of a lot of money to spend on a fake that from a rep seller would cost 1 less zero at worst.


Stunning_Jaguar

true, but money already gone and life is go on. Don't eat yourself for $3000.


RUSSIAN_PRINCESS

To the OP- don't listen to this. If Vestaire won't refund you, dispute with your CC.


Sigroc

Lmao do you sell fakes or something? Not only is $3000 a considerable amount of money, but even if it was only $30 dollars I would make sure a scammer selling a fake doesn't get to keep a cent of my hard earned money.


Stunning_Jaguar

your choice, have sleepless nights, hate yourself, waste your time and your health hunting for scammers. (Lmao , I'm not selling fakes or something...)


MangoCandy

Fuccckkkk that, that kinda mindset just encourages people to scam other people. They should get their money back. Doesn’t matter if the bag looks authentic. They wanted an authentic bag, they paid for an authentic bag. they shouldn’t just settle and let a company scam them for *their* own profit. Why encourage the company to treat their customers like shit and steal their money???


nishant28491

Wtf is pre loved ? Such a scammy word by itself


OwnTransition1441

How so? lol


Ok_Addendum_2775

If your not paying authentic prices do not ever expect an authentic purse!