How to Avoid Designer Velvet Armchair Scams on Chairish

Fake Designer Attribution: Be wary of armchairs falsely advertised as designer pieces. Scammers may use stolen photos or misrepresent the craftsmanship to sell lower-quality reproductions. Always verify the designer's authenticity through reputable sources or by requesting detailed provenance.

Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Scammers often use high-quality images lifted from legitimate gallery or designer websites. These photos may not accurately represent the actual item being sold. Always request original, unedited photos of the specific armchair and, if possible, a video.

Unreported Structural Damage: A velvet armchair might appear beautiful on the surface but could have underlying structural issues. Scammers might omit details about damage to the frame, springs, or upholstery that compromise the item's integrity. Thoroughly inspect all provided images and ask detailed questions about the condition.

The 'Payment via Check' Trap: While Chairish facilitates secure payments, be extremely cautious if a seller insists on payment via check or other untraceable methods outside the platform. This is a common tactic used to defraud buyers.

Vintage vs. Reproduction Bait: Sellers may intentionally misrepresent a reproduction as a vintage designer piece to command a higher price. Carefully examine details like construction, materials, and any maker's marks to distinguish originals from copies.

Account Takeover via Phishing: Be vigilant about suspicious emails or messages requesting your login credentials or personal information. Scammers may attempt to gain access to your Chairish account to make fraudulent transactions. Always verify communication directly through the Chairish platform.