7 Warning Signs of Scams When Buying a Designer Velvet Armchair on Chairish

Fake Designer Attribution: Be wary of listings that use terms like 'in the style of' or 'attributed to' without definitive proof. Scammers may misrepresent the authenticity of a designer piece to inflate its value. Always look for verifiable provenance or manufacturer's marks.

Stolen High-End Gallery Photos: Some listings may use professional photographs from reputable galleries or other sellers. If the seller cannot provide original photos or a clear history of the item, it could be a sign of a stolen listing or a misrepresented item.

Unreported Structural Damage: Velvet armchairs, especially vintage ones, can have hidden structural issues. Sellers might downplay or omit details about frame damage, worn upholstery beneath the velvet, or internal support problems. Thoroughly examine all provided photos and request additional close-ups of joints, legs, and any areas of potential wear.

The 'Payment via Check' Trap: While less common on platforms like Chairish that facilitate secure payments, be extremely cautious if a seller requests payment via check or money order, especially for off-platform transactions. These methods are difficult to trace and offer little recourse if the item is not as described or never arrives.

Off-Platform 'Local Pickup' Fraud: If a seller insists on moving the transaction off-platform for a 'local pickup' to avoid fees, this is a major red flag. They might ask for upfront payment via unsecured methods, and then you'll never receive the armchair.

White-Glove Shipping Surcharge: While 'white glove' service is a legitimate offering for large items, be cautious if the surcharge seems excessively high or is presented as a mandatory, non-negotiable fee outside of the platform's standard shipping costs. Verify the details and legitimacy of the quoted shipping service.

Account Takeover via Phish: Be vigilant against phishing attempts that might target your Chairish account. Scammers could send fake emails or messages impersonating Chairish to trick you into revealing your login credentials, potentially compromising your account and purchase history. Always verify communication directly through the official Chairish platform.