Online shopping can be such a minefield – especially when you’re blowing serious bucks on big ticket items. So we sat down with Stephanie Crespin, the genius behind ah-mazing online designer marketplace Style Tribute, and got her expert advice on how to be a smart cookie when trawling for designer goods on the WWW.
Where did you come up with the fab idea to start StyleTribute?
I have always had a passion for unique and vintage designer goods. I started out in finance and moved on to marketing at Procter & Gamble, where I handled a portfolio of fine fragrances. The job gave me a lot of insight into the fashion industry and the chance to work with entrepreneurs, which spurred me to start my own business.
Two months after I arrived in Singapore, the idea of StyleTribute was born with the help of my supportive husband Denis and our amazing graphic designer, Lisa. The business has grown quickly since then and we’ve now expanded our team to a great group of six.
Have you ever had bad luck when buying luxury goods online?
I’ve never been unlucky in terms of buying a fake bag but I’m usually disappointed by the condition of the product and overall service. Buying and selling designer items on Ebay is such a pain for me. Navigation around the site is difficult and I’ve often doubted every product’s authenticity.
Buying luxury goods should be a delightful experience where you feel pampered. Many online stores lack this magic. That’s the reason why I started StyleTribute: to let fashion lovers buy and sell luxury goods with peace of mind. We are very discerning in the selection process. Every item must be fashionable and in pristine condition. We’re not just going to accept everything and end up looking like your grandmother’s old dusty attic.
We’re dying to know: what’s the best designer item you’ve scored?
Some of the best things I’ve bought for myself were a pair of vintage Italian boots, an Hermes scarf, a Balmain blouse (for just 10 Euros at a flee market!), a very rare Chanel pouch, and a Rochas suit.
One of my favorite pieces we’ve found for StyleTribute is an Alexander McQueen dress, which has become a collector’s item since it came from one of his last runway shows. We are also selling an amazing vintage python coat and a limited edition Sailor bag, both from Louis Vuitton.
Tons of designer gems at StyleTribute!
Teach us, Master. How can we spot fake designer products when shopping online?
The key is to ask lots of questions.
- Ask the seller for the product invoice, authenticity card and serial number.
- Ask for detailed photos of the product. Check the craftsmanship: the hardware, the stitching, the lining. Everything should be impeccable. If there are many flaws and imperfections, that should raise your suspicion.
- Do your homework and research about key characteristics of each brand. For example, the Louis Vuitton pattern, the mirrors found in Balenciaga bags, and the triangle emblem inside Prada bags.
- Question the history of the product and seller. Where did the owner buy it? What other pieces has she sold before? Does she have credibility, a good seller rating?
What advice can you give to first-time buyers who are afraid of falling prey to dodgy deals online?
I have three simple tips, which I’ve been using for years and have never failed me.
- Reach out to the company behind the website. Look for a phone number and give them a ring during business hours. Weird answering machines usually means something’s wrong. If you do get someone on the line, ask questions about the company and the deal you’re interested in.
- Do some research online – Does the company have a Facebook page? Does anything come up when typing the website’s name with ‘+ scam’ on Google?
- Opt for ‘cash on delivery’ option. Worst-case scenario, your product never arrives but you don’t lose any money.
- Finally, if you trust the website in question but are scared of buying something that won’t fit, check if there is a return policy.
What about budding fashionistas with limited budgets?
Second-hand items are your best bet. The discounts range between 50% to and 90% and some of the items are new and unused (with the price tags still on!). Be tenacious and you might find amazing deals like a Vera Wang dress for $150 or Louboutin heels for $180.
Thanks for the stellar advice, Stephanie – now excuse us, we’ve got tons of shopping sites to raid!