We all know that it’s safer to purchase luxury goods from their own standalone boutiques themselves, or from high-end department stores like Barneys, Neiman Marcus, etc. But, for those of us who live in countries like Malaysia, we usually don’t get ALL the products from the entire collection available, but are instead left to choose from what the buyers have selected from the collections. So, although it’s safer not to purchase luxury goods online, especially from eBay, as I know of personal friends who have been conned by eBay resellers. I also have to warn you BagAddicts out there against websites that claim to only sell 100% authentic designer bags, but what they’re actually selling you, is fake/replica bags (again, speaking from personal experience as an aunt of mine was a victim of the scam). However, there ARE reputable websites out there, and I’ll be sharing these websites with you below.

For authentication services, there are 2 websites out there that help you check the authenticity of the bag in question that you wish to purchase from online resellers and online websites.

• My Poupette: The “world’s largest and oldest designer authentication company”, this website was established in 1999. They provide authentication services for Hermes, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Balenciaga, Coach, Kooba, Dior, Louis Vuitton bags, etc. They have even written a guide book to buying authentic Vuitton bags online! If you have fallen victim to someone who has sold you a fake/replica designer bag, My Poupette also offers services to support Fraud claims with Paypal, credit card and insurance companies! In recent years, they have even expanded their services to selling authentic second-hand designer items (on consigment basis) online.

• Authenticate First: Trusted by many in the industry, this website, founded in 2013, offers authentication services for not just bags and small leather goods (SLGs), but also clothing, crystalware, fine china, jewellery, footwear, and watches. You can submit your item in question either via detailed photography, or request for their in-person authentication service by their in-house team of experts by scheduling an appointment.

Discounted Designer Websites

Ok so most of us might not be able to afford designer goods because of the retail prices. Here are some links where you can obtain authentic designer goods at discounted prices:

• Bluefly : This website might ring a bell as they are the sponsors for all accessories on the reality TV series, Project Runway. Owned by NASDAQ Smallcap, this reputable website offers designer clothing, handbags, shoes and accessories at discounted prices, and has been recommended by the New York Times.

• StyleDrops: This website offers all clothing and accessories for women and men by Italian brands like Prada, Gucci, Tod’s and Hogan.

• Raffaello-Network : Offers women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, accessories, shoes, handbags, and small leather goods from all the IT designers. Possibly the widest selection of brands available compared to Bluefly and StyleDrops above. What’s more, they have an outlet department as well where you can save up to 75% off on designer items.

• The Outnet: Launched in 2009, this is Net-a-Porter’s off-season “factory outlet” store. New arrivals drop every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, so expected to find everything from clothing and accessories, to shoes, bags, and gifts, from over 350 designers, at 75% off retail prices.

Invitation-only Online Sample Sale Websites

• Reebonz: Based in Singapore, this member’s-only online sample sale website has daily events where you can obtain current season designer items from 30-65% off retail. Get your invitation here!

• Gilt : New-York based website offering not just women’s but also men’s, children’s, travel and home deco designer items at discounted prices. Jewellery and Watches events (including Jacob & Co., Techno Marine, etc) also available Daily events begin at 1am Malaysian Time. Get your invitation here!

Recommended Online E-Tailers at Retail Prices that ship to most countries worldwide:

• Net-a-Porter
• Luisa via Roma
• Farfetch
• Matches Fashion

Tip: For those of you residing in Malaysia, Net-a-Porter and Luisa Via Roma covers any import duties on your behalf, so there are no additional costs incurred once payment is made.

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Watch out for the final Part (Part 4) of BagAddicts Fight Against Fakes, where I will be featuring some common myths about purchasing counterfeit goods.

Image via Style Tribute on YouTube