About Designer Second Hand Vienna | Our History & Philosophy

Authenticity in designer fashion: How we guarantee the original

In the world of second-hand fashion, authenticity is everything. Especially with high-quality designer pieces, trust is crucial – nobody wants to spend a lot of money on a dream bag that later turns out to be a fake.

At Designer Second Hand Vienna, authenticity isn't just a buzzword – it's a core value. We want you to feel confident with every purchase, whether in-store or online. That's why we've developed clear processes to ensure that every item we sell is genuine. Here's exactly how we do it:

1. Our promise: Quality you can see – and feel

With years of experience in designer fashion, we have developed a trained eye for detail. Some fakes are recognizable at first glance – others require close examination.

But that's our standard: We don't sell anything unless we're 100% certain it's genuine. And we don't rely on dubious internet "certificates." Instead, we trust in expertise, transparency, and sound internal processes.

2. How we identify genuine pieces

We don't rely on gut feeling. Every item is carefully checked based on our knowledge and experience.

We check for:

• Workmanship : clean, symmetrical seams, high-quality lining

• Hardware : Zippers, clasps, chains – weight, color & engraving are important

• Materials : genuine leather or canvas – never plastic-like textures

• Logos & lettering : correct spacing, typography & positioning

• Serial numbers : brand-specific codes, labels, or holograms

We know especially what to look for with brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Gucci. Even small details like dust bags, tags, or magnetic closures can help confirm authenticity.

3. Documents & original packaging – if available

When customers bring us items, we always welcome:

• Original invoices

• Brand Authenticity Cards

• Warranty or care cards

• Dust bags or boxes

These documents help us trace the origin of the item – but don't worry: you can still sell or consign without them . The absence of paperwork doesn't automatically mean rejection – we check every item.

4. When in doubt: We consult experts.

For particularly rare or vintage pieces – such as a vintage Chanel or LV bag – we go a step further. If we are not entirely certain, we send the item to trusted external experts for a full professional examination or a "spa treatment ."

Their invoice is the only proof we consider truly reliable – not "certificates" from dubious sources. We don't sell uncertainty.

5. Our stance on fake certificates

There are countless "certificates of authenticity" online – they look professional, but many are worthless. Some are issued without the product even having been seen in person.

At Designer Second Hand Vienna, we completely reject this practice. Instead, we rely on:

• internal audits

• years of expertise

• certified restoration partners

No false security. Only genuine, verifiable authenticity.

Our rule: If we cannot guarantee authenticity, we do not sell it.

6. Trustworthy Shopping – Online & Offline

Whether you browse our online shop or visit us in Vienna – your trust means everything to us.

Therefore, we offer:

• Detailed product images (including all main features)

• Honest descriptions (including condition & history)

• Personal consultation via email, DM or in store

• careful packaging & secure shipping

And if you're unsure about anything, we're always here for you – no pressure, no sales tricks. Just open, honest advice.

7. Our goal: Second-hand shopping with confidence

We believe in the power of designer second-hand fashion. Not only because it's sustainable – but because it offers access to iconic fashion without producing waste.

But this approach must be accompanied by security. That's why we choose knowledge, quality, and full transparency.

When you shop with us, you can be sure:

• Each item was checked.

• Every detail was verified.

• Every product has a real story.

Designer second-hand clothing is beautiful, inspiring, and empowering – but it deserves clear standards and real responsibility.

At Designer Second Hand Vienna, authenticity is not a marketing phrase – it is a lived practice.

For your trust. For your favorite piece. For a better kind of fashion.