Mayfair Dresses issues an urgent warning for bargain seekers: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit dresses are made and sold with the intent to deceive consumers. The counterfeit issue has long troubled the fashion industry but has worsened with the rise of online shopping. It’s not just a concern for brides; it affects all types of formal wear, including prom, pageantry, and evening dresses.

Mayfair Dresses advises consumers to be cautious of counterfeits when shopping online.

Tips for Customers:

Designer Website: Use the “Store Locator” to find a list of authorized retailers. If the website or store is not listed, be aware that they might not be selling genuine designer gowns.

Check Website Images: Some websites use images of real designer dresses to attract unsuspecting buyers with low prices. Cropped photos might be an attempt to hide copyrighted images. If the models’ heads are cut off in the photos, the site may be using the images without the designer’s permission.

Verify Contact Information: The “Contact Us” page should include a phone number and address (preferably within the U.S.), not just an email, for customer service. If the site lists a phone number or address in China, it’s a red flag. Some U.S. phone numbers simply forward calls overseas.

Return Policy Caution: Generally, authorized retailers for designers do not accept returns unless the merchandise has a factory defect. Be cautious of sites that claim you can return a dress for a full refund.

Measurement Reliance: Professional dress and bridal shops in the U.S. usually rely on a few key measurements, as specified on the designer’s size chart.

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