Authentication at In Style Ascot
Confidence in Pre-Loved Designer Fashion
Authenticity is fundamental to the way we buy, sell and consign designer fashion.
At In Style Ascot, every item is assessed before it is offered for sale. Selected designer pieces are professionally authenticated where required, using an appropriate independent service for the brand and category.
Our aim is to protect buyers, consignors and the integrity of the pre-loved market while making the process clear and straightforward.
What Authentication Means
Authentication is the process of assessing whether an item is consistent with a genuine product made by the stated brand.
Depending on the item, an assessment may consider:
19. Construction and craftsmanship
20. Materials and finishes
21. Stitching and edge paint
22. Hardware, engravings and fastenings
23. Logos, stamps, labels and typography
24. Serial, date or production information where present
25. Interior details and linings
26. Packaging and supporting documents
27. Known characteristics of the relevant model and production period
The exact method varies by brand, age and item type. Some assessments can be completed from detailed images, while others require a physical inspection or additional specialist review.
Our Authentication Process
1. Initial Review
When an item is submitted, we first review the information provided by the seller, including the brand, model, age, condition, purchase history, repairs and any supporting documents.
An initial acceptance or drop-off does not guarantee that an item will be listed.
2. Physical Assessment
Our team examines the item and records relevant details. We may request further information, proof of purchase, identification or clearer evidence of ownership.
We also assess condition at this stage. Authentication and condition are separate: a genuine item can still show substantial wear, previous repairs or replacement components.
3. Professional Authentication
Where required, the item is referred to an appropriate professional authentication provider.
The provider and method used may depend on:
28. Brand and category
29. Age and model
30. Item value
31. Available markings or production information
32. Previous repairs or alterations
33. The evidence needed to reach a reliable conclusion
4. Outcome
The item will only be offered for sale when we are satisfied that it can be represented confidently and accurately.
If further evidence is needed, we may ask the seller for additional information. If sufficient confidence cannot be reached, we will decline to list the item.
Authentication Charges for Consignors
The authentication charge is £20 per item where professional authentication is required.
If the item sells, the £20 charge will normally be deducted from the seller payment.
If the item remains unsold or is withdrawn, the £20 charge must be paid before the item is collected or returned. Where the authentication provider supplies a certificate or supporting documentation, this will be provided to the consignor where permitted.
Authentication charges apply for the work completed regardless of whether an item ultimately sells.
Packaging, Receipts and Authenticity Cards
Original boxes, dust bags, receipts, care booklets and authenticity cards can support an assessment and may improve an item's resale presentation.
However, packaging and documents do not prove authenticity by themselves. They can be lost, replaced, copied or paired with a different item.
Equally, an item is not automatically inauthentic because its original packaging or receipt is missing.
Please never purchase replacement receipts, cards or branded packaging to make an item appear complete. All supporting materials must be described accurately.
Repairs, Alterations and Replacement Parts
Repairs and alterations must be disclosed before consignment.
Replacement hardware, changed linings, recolouring, restitching and other restoration can affect the authentication process, condition description and resale value.
Poorly completed or undocumented work may prevent an item from being accepted even where parts of it appear genuine.
Where possible, retain invoices and records for all professional work completed.
Our Policy on Counterfeit Items
It is unlawful to sell counterfeit goods. Sellers must confirm that they legally own every item submitted and believe it to be authentic.
If an item is confirmed to be counterfeit:
34. It will not be listed or sold.
35. The £20 authentication charge will remain payable.
36. An additional £30 administration and handling fee will apply.
37. The total payable will be £50 per confirmed counterfeit item.
38. Any associated collection, return or specialist costs may also be payable where agreed.
The item will be handled or returned in accordance with our Consignor Terms, the authentication provider's requirements and applicable law.
We may refuse future consignments where false information has been supplied or where a customer repeatedly submits counterfeit items.
If We Cannot Reach a Clear Conclusion
Occasionally an item may not be confirmed as counterfeit but may still lack enough evidence for us to sell it confidently.
This can happen with heavily altered pieces, unusual vintage items, missing production details or brands for which reliable comparison information is limited.
In these circumstances, we may:
39. Request additional documents or purchase information
40. Seek a further specialist opinion
41. Decline the item
42. Ask the consignor to arrange collection or paid return
Declining an item does not necessarily mean that we have determined it to be counterfeit.
Authentication for Buyers
Selected designer items are professionally authenticated where required before sale. Product descriptions will also explain the item's condition, included accessories and any known repairs or alterations.
Authentication does not mean that an item is new, unworn or free from imperfections. Please review the full description and photographs alongside our Condition Guide.
If you have a genuine concern about an item purchased from In Style Ascot, contact us promptly with:
43. Your order number
44. A clear explanation of the concern
45. Supporting photographs
46. Any relevant independent information
We may arrange a further assessment. If an item sold by In Style Ascot is determined not to be authentic, we will provide an appropriate remedy, including a full refund where required by law.
Your Information
Where professional authentication is required, relevant item photographs, product details and limited transaction information may be shared with an authentication provider.
Personal information will only be shared where necessary and will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Questions About Authentication?
Email: info@instyleascot.co.uk
WhatsApp: 07444 864918
Instagram: @instyleascot