How to Spot Authentic Designer Pieces When Shopping Secondhand

Buying secondhand shouldn’t mean second-guessing. When you shop resale, it’s important to know how to spot signs of authenticity—especially in today’s market where high-quality counterfeits exist.

At High Society, our team is trained to inspect stitching, zippers, hardware, serial numbers, date codes, hologram tags, and brand markings. We verify every detail before accepting an item into our collection. Our standards ensure that you’re always buying genuine designer fashion.

When shopping secondhand elsewhere, here are a few things to look for:

• High-quality craftsmanship: Uneven stitching or poor materials are red flags.

• Consistent branding: Logos should be precise and consistent with the brand’s known placements.

• Serial numbers or date codes: Most luxury pieces include these hidden identifiers.

• Feel and weight: Authentic luxury items feel sturdy, structured, and balanced.

Different brands have different indicators. For example, Louis Vuitton uses date codes in specific formats based on production year and country. Chanel includes a hologram sticker and sometimes an accompanying authentication card. Gucci bags have embossed serial numbers on the interior leather tag.

If you’re unsure, always shop with a trusted source. At High Society, we authenticate every item, and our staff is always happy to educate customers on what makes a piece legit. Knowing what to look for empowers you to shop smarter and feel confident in your purchases.