When shopping at outlet stores, it can be hard to tell if you’re getting a real product or a fake one. Many brands operate authorized outlet locations, but there are also third-party sellers and phony locations that sell fakes. To make sure you’re buying authentic items, start by verifying the outlet. Brand-approved outlets are usually located in designer shopping complexes, often with official logos from the brand. Check the authorized online portal of the brand and validate the outlet details there. If the store is in a unremarkable plaza with few known labels nearby, proceed with caution.

Examine the packaging carefully. Legitimate goods come in well-crafted cases, dust bags, or brand-specific paper with uniform logo placement. The brand mark should be precisely aligned, with accurate lettering and spacing. Replicas often have blurry printing, misspellings, or cheap substrates. For example, bottes UGG a authentic branded bag might come with a product serial tag and a product care label, while a counterfeit might have a hand-applied label that looks like it was poorly affixed.

Evaluate the craftsmanship and fabric. Real merchandise are made with accuracy. Study sewn edges, fasteners, and findings. Authorized goods usually have uniform, precise stitching and metal hardware that exudes quality. Knockoffs often have loose threads, inconsistent spacing, or low-cost hardware. The textile should feel premium and have a neutral odor. A strong chemical odor is a clear indicator.

Verify item attributes that reflect the brand’s published specs. Cross-check the model number, color names, and specs. Brands often provide them in product descriptions for every product. If the outlet item discrepancies exist or if the details seem ambiguous, it could be counterfeit. Also, pay attention to the price. If the discount seems beyond believable—like an extreme markdown on a brand new designer item—it almost certainly is.

Ask questions. A knowledgeable staff member should be able to provide information about the item’s manufacturing location, composition, and return policy. If they appear confused, that’s a warning sign. Also, check for a receipt or a authenticity certificate. Authentic retailers provide certified proof, even at discount locations.

Finally, follow your intuition. If something feels off, it almost certainly is. Don’t be forced to make a quick purchase. Compare carefully to verify against visuals from the brand’s trusted platform or trusted buyer ratings. Buying authentic items ensures you get the longevity and craftsmanship you expect—and prevents you from wasting money on shoddy replicas.