Luxury items attract fakes. Before you spend €60 on a "Sandro" on Vinted, here are some tips to make sure the item is authentic - and why at Éthique et chic by Manon, every item goes through a precise inspection protocol before being listed online.
First check: the label
The manufacturer's label (sewn on the inside, often at the back of the neck or side seam) is your first source of information.
What I systematically check:
- The typography: each brand has its signature font. Sézane uses a fine and elegant font with its logo in italics. Sandro has a black label with its name in white, sans-serif font. If the font is slightly different (spacing, thickness), it's suspicious.
- The label material: satin for Sézane, thin fabric for Sandro, jacquard for Isabel Marant. A shiny plastic or too stiff label is bad news.
- The finish of the label seams: on a genuine item, the label is sewn regularly and cleanly. On fakes, you often see loose threads or irregular stitches.
Internal seams and finishes
Premium brands pay attention to their interiors. Turn the item inside out and examine:
- The seams are regular, fine, with no hanging threads.
- The hems are neat, often properly overlocked or double-stitched.
- The linings are matching and well-attached (not gaping or misplaced).
- On a blazer or coat, the shoulder pad is firm and straight. On fakes, it's often saggy or poorly positioned.
Tip: compare with another item from the same brand that you know, or look at detailed photos on the official website.
Materials and their drape
A genuine designer item has a distinctive weight and drape. Ba&sh silk is fluid and heavy, Sandro cashmere is dense, Isabel Marant wool has a characteristic silky feel.
The simple test: pick up the item, weigh it in your hand, see how it drapes when you hold it by the shoulders. If it seems surprisingly light, thin, or "plasticky," be wary.
Brand-specific details: focus on distinctive markers
Sézane
- Fine satin label, off-white, graceful italic logo.
- Buttons often made of mother-of-pearl or quality resin, never shiny plastic.
- Composition label sewn inside with the model number.
Sandro
- Black woven label with "Sandro" in white, sometimes doubled with a second label indicating the collection.
- Good quality Riri or YKK zippers.
- Branded buttons on leather jackets and blazers.
Maje
- Burgundy or cream woven label.
- Very neat interior finishes, especially on silk dresses.
- Serial number + item number label (to keep, increases resale value).
Isabel Marant and Isabel Marant Étoile
- Very distinctive jacquard label, two typographies ("Isabel Marant" + "Étoile" for the diffusion line).
- Very specific cuts (the famous bohemian tunics, platform boots).
- Very high-quality buttons and zippers.
A.P.C.
- Minimalist white label with "A.P.C. — Atelier de Production et de Création" and the Parisian address.
- On jeans: inside pocket with a small black leather label (never shiny synthetic leather).
- Raw hems on some iconic models.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
1. The label that looks too clean on a "vintage" item
If the item is 5 years old and the manufacturer's label looks brand new, it's suspicious. Either it has been re-sewn (and you should ask why), or it has been artificially added.
2. The price is too low
A Sandro jacket sold for €35 on Vinted is probably a copy or a hidden poor condition. The market is well-enough monitored that there are no "miracle bargains" on well-known brands.
3. Non-illustrative photos
If the seller refuses to send you a detailed photo of the inside label or seams, it's a bad sign.
4. Too "famous" models
Counterfeiters target iconic models (Sézane Will, Isabel Marant Étoile Mansel sweater…). Be extra vigilant with these specific items.
My inspection protocol at Éthique et chic by Manon
Before an item arrives in the store, it passes through my hands for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Here's exactly what I do:
- Label inspection (typography, material, label seams).
- Internal seam inspection (regularity, finishes, linings).
- Button, fastener, zipper check (material, brand, functionality).
- Material test (weight, drape, feel).
- Comparison with official photos of the model if I have any doubt.
- Wearability test on a mannequin to check the cut.
- Exhaustive visual inspection of the condition (stains, holes, pilling, signs of wear).
At the slightest doubt, the item is rejected. I prefer to lose a potential sale than to sell a fake or an item of questionable quality — trust with my customers is priceless.
And with me, can you buy with your eyes closed?
On the Éthique et chic by Manon store:
- Each item has been inspected according to the protocol above.
- The actual condition is always described in the ad, with mention of any defects.
- You benefit from the legal guarantee of conformity (12 months for second-hand items) and the 14-day right of withdrawal.
- If upon receipt an item does not match the description, I will find a solution immediately (refund, exchange).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you authenticate an item for me before I buy it elsewhere?
If you're hesitant about an item found elsewhere (Vinted, other consignment store…), send me detailed photos by email — inside label, seams, overall view. I can give you my honest opinion, it's free.
What if I discover a counterfeit after purchase?
With me, that doesn't happen (at worst, the item is rejected during inspection). If, despite everything, you notice a doubt after receipt, I will refund you in full, without discussion. As for Vinted or other platforms, contact the platform's customer service — selling counterfeit items is illegal.
👉 Want to buy with peace of mind? Discover the selection — every item inspected and guaranteed.
👉 Want to entrust us with your designer items? Consignment form.
Happy discovery, Manon ✿