With the growing popularity of Aerie flare leggings, especially the viral crossover styles, the market has seen a rise in knockoffs and counterfeit products. While imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, purchasing fake Aerie leggings can lead to disappointment—lower quality, uncomfortable fits, and lack of durability. If you’re shopping online or secondhand, it’s crucial to know how to tell the real deal from a cheap copy. Here’s your complete guide to spotting authentic Aerie flare leggings versus imposters.
1. Check the Fabric Quality and Feel
Genuine Aerie flare leggings are crafted from ultra-soft, signature fabrics like Real Me or Hugger, known for their buttery-smooth feel and light compression. Knockoffs often use inferior blends that feel rough, thin, or overly stretchy without recovery.
What to do: If you’re shopping in person, run your hand along the fabric—it should feel sleek and smooth, not flimsy or see-through.
2. Inspect the Logo and Branding Carefully
Aerie leggings always feature clear, consistent branding. Look for the small Aerie logo printed or sewn subtly near the waistband or inner label. Knockoffs often misprint the logo or use a different font, color, or placement.
Red flags:
- Misspelled logos like “Arie” or “Aery”
- Unbranded tags or tags that mimic other retailers
3. Examine the Waistband Design
One of the most popular features of authentic Aerie flare leggings is the crossover waistband, which offers a flattering, V-shaped front. Fakes may attempt to mimic this shape but often get the proportions wrong—either too sharp, too shallow, or stitched awkwardly.
Pro tip: Real Aerie crossover waistbands lie flat, with smooth seams and reinforced stitching that doesn’t twist or curl after a few wears.
4. Review the Stitching and Seams
Authentic Aerie leggings have clean, even stitching. They use flatlock seams to prevent irritation and provide a sleek silhouette. Knockoffs may have:
- Uneven stitches
- Loose threads
- Bumpy or bulky seams that cause discomfort
Always inspect the inside of the leggings too—messy interior stitching is a telltale sign of a fake.
5. Look for the Official Tag and RN Number
Aerie leggings come with fabric tags that list product details, care instructions, and a registered identification number (RN# 54485) that confirms American Eagle/Aerie as the manufacturer.
Fake leggings might:
- Lack any RN number
- Include a suspicious or unrelated one
- Have unclear or misspelled care instructions
6. Buy from Trusted Retailers Only
The safest way to avoid knockoffs is by purchasing directly from the Aerie website, American Eagle stores, or certified retailers. Be cautious when shopping through third-party sellers on marketplaces like Amazon, Poshmark, or eBay.
Tip: If a deal seems too good to be true—like new Aerie leggings for $8—it probably is.
7. Compare to Official Photos
If you’re buying secondhand, compare the listing photos to the ones on the official Aerie site. Real leggings should match in:
- Color options
- Stitching style
- Overall fit and flare
Watch for differences in the flare shape—authentic Aerie leggings gradually widen below the knee with a smooth drape.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut
When in doubt, trust your instincts. Authentic Aerie flare leggings are known for their quality and fit. If something feels off—whether it’s the tag, fabric, or design—walk away. Knockoffs not only deliver subpar performance but also take business away from the original creators. Stick to trusted sources, learn the signs, and you’ll always get the real comfort and style that Aerie is known for.
