It is a minefield. I mostly only buy from reputable sellers from Japan but on a handful of occasions I’ve spotted some definite fakes for sale. So nothing is 100 per cent safe when it comes to secondhand. If I’m unsure of something I just won’t buy. And I wouldn’t buy secondhand newer LV models because some of the newer fakes can apparently be really convincing.
I looked at Vinted a few times and I was shocked at all the blatant fakes for sale being passed off as the real deal, so I stopped looking on there.
My one and only (probably forever) Chanel bag I bought from an in-person auction house (who also do appraisals and authentications) in Germany so I trust that.
I’ve also reported fake Mulberry bags on Vinted but they don’t seem to care.
I’ve seen people extolling Japanese second hand designer stores on TikTok, saying “Japanese culture doesn’t allow fakes” whilst holding up a fake LV Speedy (with the monogram print upside down on one side!).
I’ve seen a lot of retailers (TK Maxx, Brandalley, Secret Sales) selling preloved designer bags but I don’t trust any of them not to let fakes slip through.
Speaking of designer bags, I’m usually a mid-range luxury brand girl because the idea of dropping a four figure sum on a bag horrifies me. Lately I’ve been into Strathberry and Coach and have been eyeing up Demellier. But a part of me wants to go all out and get a big name bag for my birthday later this year (my excuse is I’ll be 45 and my 40th happened during peak COVID so… say no more). But I’m not sure whether to or not. I’ve always liked LV but I keep hearing that their quality is declining and the canvas bags develop holes - and leather is a big jump in price. Looking at other brands and their classics but nothing really feels like me.
I guess I can have fun researching!
www.bbc.co.uk
around with you, the 30 will be perfect. I am not a tiny bag person 
