ExecutiveChronicles | What to Look For When Buying Online Designer Bags | Purchasing a designer bag is a big deal. Whether you’re buying one that’s new out of the box or a used, authentic bag, you want to make sure it’s exactly what you’re looking for.
Here are a few things to look for when shopping online:
Authenticity
Designer bags are coveted for the style, quality, and status symbol they represent. They often come with a hefty price tag, however. Because of this, some designer bag enthusiasts turn to online sellers to find a more affordable rate on their favorite handbags. Although some resale websites claim to authenticate their pieces, it’s important to do your own research before purchasing a designer bag from a new or used seller. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting a true and genuine designer bag.
First, check the website’s return policy. A reputable resale website will have this information clearly posted on the homepage. Also, look for a seller’s feedback scores and reviews. A positive rating and a good reputation will help you avoid getting scammed or buying a fake bag.
Another important factor to consider is where the bag was manufactured. While some designers make their own bags, others outsource their production to factories that may not follow strict labor laws. This will affect how long it takes to ship the item and whether it is a genuine piece or not. If the bag has a serial number, you should do some research to find out how each designer numbers their bags. If a real bag has a four-figure number, but the one you are looking at has only three, it is likely a fake.
The next thing to consider is the condition of the bag. Check the website for photos of the bag from all sides, including the interior. Also, examine the bag for scratches or signs of wear. If there is a clear sign of wear, or the bag doesn’t match the description, it is probably a fake. In addition, check the lining, handles, fastenings, and logo.
If you’re unsure of the authenticity of a bag, try The RealReal. This resale site specializes in designer items and claims to have an authentication process that includes examining each bag for blemishes, dirt, and other markings. It also compares prices to other resale sites and offers free shipping on orders over $50. Luxury Garage Sale is another great option for finding pre-owned designer bags. The site allows you to filter by designer, style, model, color, material, closure, and detail. It also has a condition rating system that ranges from “giftable” to “flawed.”
Price
Designer bags are a status symbol, and as such, they come at a steep price. However, if you’re willing to do your homework and buy from a reputable online seller, you can snag your dream bag for less than the retail price. To ensure you’re getting a genuine piece, take the time to look through the authentication sections of the designer bags on tPF or in this Authenticate This section (for brands that don’t have their own sub-forum). Look for the brand culture, including how a bag is numbered. A real bag will never have plastic or paper covering the handles and straps, and the lining and pockets should be of high quality.
The market for online designer bags has exploded over the past few years, and it’s easier than ever to find a great deal on the bag of your dreams. Resale sites like Fashionphile and Sellier offer a wide range of designer bags from major fashion houses, including Chanel, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and more. You can even browse by style to narrow down your options.
Before you make a purchase, check the seller’s reviews and comments. If a lot of people have complained about the seller’s customer service, poor condition, or other issues, you should probably look elsewhere. If, on the other hand, most of the feedback is positive, it’s probably a safe bet to do business with them.
Another way to save money on a designer bag is to buy a pre-loved one. Many designer stores and online sellers have sections dedicated to pre-loved pieces, with photos of actual bags and a description of their condition. Look at the condition ratings and, if possible, compare it to what the bag looks like in its original packaging.
The resale marketplace for designer bags has also exploded in recent years, with more resellers than ever before. While reselling may be an option, you’ll likely lose 30-60% on the item due to depreciation and seller fees to resale platforms. Buying from a luxury reseller is the most straightforward and secure option for recouping some of your initial investment.
Shipping
When it comes to designer bags, shipping costs can make or break the deal. If a merchant does not clearly state the shipping costs, buyers should ask for more information from the seller. A legitimate merchant should have no problem answering your questions and will happily provide additional photos or details upon request. This way, you can feel confident in your purchase and avoid any shady transactions.
In order to shop for a pre-loved designer bag that suits your style, first narrow down the selection of designers. You can find online guides that list popular bags by designer, which will help you narrow down your search. Once you have a few options, look at the condition level and price. This will give you a good idea of whether the bag is worth it or not.
If you are looking for a classic bag, consider Chanel, Hermes, or Louis Vuitton. These bags retain high resale value and act as a statement piece. The iconic Chanel Classic Flap or Hermes Birkin is a perfect example of this. These bags will continue to hold their value, even when the prices rise.
Shopping for a designer bag is a huge investment, so it is important to do your homework. Aside from researching the latest collections, you should also read customer reviews. According to a recent survey, over 90% of customers consult online reviews before making a purchase.
To get the best price, shop for designer bags at online resale sites. These sites offer a wide variety of products from popular brands and often carry a wider range of sizes than physical stores. Additionally, most resale sites have an easy-to-use search engine that allows you to filter by color, occasion, and designer.
To save time and money, try shopping for a designer bag at resale sites that offer free shipping. These sites are more likely to win the trust of shoppers than those that charge a small fee for shipping. Moreover, they are more transparent about their shipping and returns policies. You should always read the store and return policies before purchasing a product from an online retailer.
Returns
Bag lovers often turn to online sellers when looking for a new designer bag. But this can be a risky venture. There are many factors that need to be taken into account, including shipping and returns policies. A good seller should provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your purchase. For example, a good online store will include photos of the bag from every angle and will clearly state its condition. Also, it should give you an idea of the bag’s price and if there are any discounts available.
If you’re buying a designer bag from a retailer that doesn’t offer free returns, you should be wary. Retailers lose a third of all returned items, according to RSR Research retail analyst Paula Rosenblum. This loss eats into profits and can impact customer satisfaction. Thankfully, there are some online retailers that offer hassle-free returns on a wide selection of luxury bags.
Nordstrom is one such retailer that offers free returns on a number of designer bags. Whether you’re shopping for a Chanel or Hermes bag, you can return it to the company within 30 days for a full refund or store credit. This is an excellent policy for customers who want to try out a bag before purchasing it.
If you decide to shop for a designer bag online, be sure to read the return and refund policy carefully. This will give you a better understanding of how the company handles returns and if it’s worth shopping with them. You should also look at the reviews and ratings of the online store before making a purchase.
Some online stores have more detailed search systems than others, so be sure to take the time to explore them all. Bloomingdale’s, for example, has a feature that allows shoppers to filter bags by color, material (e.g., leather, canvas), and style. It also has a “customers also loved” section that helps shoppers find similar items.
Another important consideration when shopping for a designer bag is the price. While high-end signature bags are coveted for their style, quality, and status symbolism, they’re expensive and rarely go on sale. If you’re looking for a bargain, be sure to compare prices from multiple sellers and consider the return policy before deciding to buy.
