A recent post on the r/handbags subreddit highlighted the disappointment and frustration one user experienced after purchasing a fake Puzzle bag from Fashionphile. The user, who goes by the username u/throwRAwayy, shared their story of purchasing a black-and-white Puzzle bag from Fashionphile.
After receiving the bag, the user noticed a few red flags that made them suspect it might be fake. The bag's stitching was inconsistent, and the hardware felt flimsy and light. Additionally, the user noticed that the bag did not have the usual serial number tag typically found on authentic bags.
I ordered a Loewe mini puzzle bag on fashionphile. When I got it it seemed off. Very light weight for being leather, fraying stitching, felt plasticy and the handle seemed off. I sent photos to legit grails and it was deemed inauthentic. I've bought numerous things on fashionphile and always have had them authenticated and I am glad I did. It's getting returned asap and I'm getting my money back. Beware.
The user contacted Fashionphile's authentication team, who initially assured them the bag was authentic. However, after further inspection, the authentication team confirmed that the bag was fake. The user expressed disappointment in the authentication process and said they had been sold a fake bag. However, she was satisfied with receiving a 100% refund from Fashionphile.
Got sold a fake puzzle bag on fashionphile. Always authenticate everything!!!
byu/bitchinawesomeblonde inhandbags
The Reddit thread received many comments from other users who shared similar experiences and expressed frustration with the prevalence of fakes in the designer handbag market.
In response to a commenter asking how much she paid for re-authenticated, the user said:
Yes, I did have to pay to have it authenticated, but I would much rather pay that small fee versus the $1900 I spent on the bag. I don't think they reimburse you.
Other top-voted commenters responded:
"I stopped buying and selling through them after they told me a gucci I bought directly from the regular boutique was fake. It 100% was not and I had it double authenticated."
"I no longer trust their ability to authenticate. I use yoogis closet instead."
"Wow, they’re usually really good with Authenticity. Glad it’s being returned!"
"That’s so disappointing. I hate that this happened to you, but I’m so glad you had it authenticated! With this and the other fake Loewe spotted recently on this sub, I’ve got serious concerns about buying on these sites."
"Glad I’m not the only one, they tried to hold my Prada Reedition hostage for a $75 return fee when they said it was fake. I was there when it was purchased on Rodeo."
"Here's the thing (I'm a luxury authenticator), authenticating through pictures is REALLY hard, which is why unless is something obvious I don't trust none of those sites for 'authentication'."
"I don't trust fashionphile one bit, it's happened that they sold fakes to quite a few people I know. Always be careful. Weird when they keep relisting items after they sold."
While it can be disheartening to be sold a fake bag, it is important to remember that there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Always research the retailer, look for red flags, and when in doubt, seek the help of a professional authentication service. While it can be tempting to jump on a good deal, it is important to remember that the authenticity of a bag is worth the extra effort and research.
