Vivienne Westwood is one of the most iconic designers in the fashion world, known for her avant-garde designs, unique tailoring, and rebellious spirit. With the brand’s popularity, however, comes the unfortunate rise of counterfeits. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a collector, or simply looking to invest in an authentic Vivienne Westwood dress, knowing how to spot a real piece is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through key indicators to help you confidently identify an authentic Vivienne Westwood dress.
1. Check the Label and Tags
The first step in identifying an authentic Vivienne Westwood dress is to examine the label and tags closely. Authentic pieces typically feature a well-stitched, high-quality label that reads “Vivienne Westwood” or “Vivienne Westwood Anglomania” (for her more accessible line). The font should be clear and sharp, without any misspellings or inconsistencies.
Additionally, a genuine Vivienne Westwood dress will often have a care label detailing the fabric composition, size, and washing instructions. Fake pieces tend to have poorly constructed labels or missing care instructions. Always ensure the label is securely stitched into the inner seams of the dress, not glued or loosely attached.
2. Assess the Fabric Quality
Vivienne Westwood is known for using luxurious fabrics, from high-quality cottons and silks to rich wool and velvet. An authentic Westwood dress will feel substantial and refined to the touch. Counterfeit versions often use cheaper materials that feel thin or lack the smooth texture of real luxury fabrics.
If the fabric feels cheap or synthetic, it’s a strong indicator that the dress may not be authentic. Pay attention to the weight and texture of the material to ensure it matches the quality associated with Vivienne Westwood’s designs.
3. Examine the Craftsmanship and Stitching
Vivienne Westwood’s dresses are known for their impeccable craftsmanship, with every stitch meticulously placed. One of the key ways to identify a genuine Vivienne Westwood dress is by examining the stitching. Authentic pieces have clean, even, and precise stitching, with no loose threads or uneven seams. The quality of the construction will also be noticeable in the way the dress holds its shape and the precision of the tailoring.
In counterfeit dresses, stitching is often rushed, resulting in irregularities, visible stitching, or poorly executed finishes. If the stitching looks sloppy or inconsistent, it’s a strong sign that the dress may not be authentic.
4. Look for Distinctive Design Features
Vivienne Westwood is known for her bold and innovative designs. From structured corsets and asymmetrical cuts to elaborate draping and punk-inspired elements, each piece is a work of art. Authentic Vivienne Westwood dresses often feature signature design elements, such as:
- Asymmetry: Many of her dresses feature asymmetric hemlines, necklines, or waistlines.
- Corsetry: Westwood frequently incorporates corsets and boning into her designs for a sculptural effect.
- Exaggerated Silhouettes: Look for dresses with bold, sculpted shapes or exaggerated volume, like puffed sleeves or dramatic skirts.
- Unique Prints and Fabrics: Westwood is known for using eclectic prints, such as tartans or floral patterns, and unique fabric choices.
Counterfeit dresses typically lack the distinctive design features that make Vivienne Westwood dresses so recognizable. If a dress doesn’t have these innovative elements or if the design feels generic, it may be a fake.
5. Inspect the Hardware and Embellishments
Vivienne Westwood is renowned for her attention to detail, and this extends to the hardware and embellishments she uses on her dresses. Whether it’s a statement belt buckle, oversized buttons, or luxurious zippers, authentic Vivienne Westwood dresses feature high-quality hardware.
For example, the brand’s signature orb logo (a globe with a cross on top) can often be found on various metal embellishments. This logo is precise, and the engraving should be sharp and clear. Counterfeit dresses may have poorly made hardware or imprecise logos, which are often one of the easiest giveaways of a fake.
6. Check the Price and Where You Buy It
Vivienne Westwood dresses are high-end luxury items, and they come with a corresponding price tag. If you come across a Vivienne Westwood dress being sold at a fraction of its usual retail price, be cautious. While discounts and sales happen, a dress priced too low compared to the brand’s typical range is a red flag.
Additionally, buying directly from authorized retailers, Vivienne Westwood boutiques, or well-known department stores can help ensure that you’re purchasing an authentic piece. Be wary of purchasing from unofficial online platforms, as they may sell counterfeit goods.
7. Look for the Authenticity Certificate or Dust Bag
Many high-end Vivienne Westwood dresses come with an authenticity certificate or branded dust bag. The certificate typically includes the style number, production year, and sometimes a handwritten note about the specific item. While this is not always the case for every piece, a missing certificate or dust bag (when it’s normally included) could be a sign that the dress is not genuine.
Authentic Vivienne Westwood dresses are often packaged with care, including branded dust bags that protect the garment from dust and damage. These dust bags will have the designer’s logo printed on them and should feel substantial and durable.
8. Research the Collection
Vivienne Westwood’s collections are always distinct and can be traced back to specific themes or inspirations. Researching past and present collections can give you valuable insight into the dresses’ designs, cuts, and materials. If you find a dress that seems out of place or doesn’t match the current or past collections, it could be a sign that it’s a counterfeit.
Conclusion
Vivienne Westwood dresses are celebrated for their bold designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and high-quality materials. Whether you’re purchasing a piece for your personal collection or investing in a statement dress, knowing how to identify an authentic Vivienne Westwood dress is essential to ensure you’re getting the real deal. By examining the label, fabric, craftsmanship, and design details, you can confidently spot the difference between an authentic piece and a counterfeit. When in doubt, always purchase from authorized retailers to ensure you’re getting a genuine Vivienne Westwood creation.
