How to Spot Fake Branded Plus Size Clothing in Dubai Markets?

Dubai is a fashion magnet. The hub of fashion houses along the Sheikh Zayed Road leads to hidden spots of markets with lots of deals and offers calling out to you to buy them. 

But not all "branded" plus-size tops or dresses that you find in the markets are original. Sometimes that unbelievable discount on a big brand looks like wow, but probably not real.

Don't get it wrong, but it’s kinda true. That’s why I brought you this article, where I’ll be telling you how to spot fake plus-size clothing while shopping in Dubai markets.

Check the Price

This is simple: if the price seems too cheap or perfect, it could be fake, then probably it is. Dubai has more outlet malls and retail offers, but still, a genuine branded plus-size top will not be sold for 20 AED when usually it is sold for 200 AED.

For example, if you see a Ralph Lauren or Tommy Hilfiger shirt in a Karama stall for the price of your tea, then it's most probably a counterfeit. Authentic brands maintain their prices, even though there might be a sale period. You must ask yourself: would the brand really sell at this price?

Examine the Labels & Tags

Actually, branded clothing comes with elaborate tags and labels. These will usually indicate the three things: fabric composition, washing instructions, and where it was made. 

Fakes, on the other hand, usually have low-quality printed labels or tags with misspelled brand names such as "Abidas" instead of "Adidas." Yes, it does happen.

Also, actual tags are securely attached and typically bear barcodes or holograms. If the tag seems flimsy, blurry, or sewn poorly, then you must trust your instincts! The chances are 100% fake.

Look at the Stitching Quality

Quality brands will not take shortcuts with essentials, and stitching is the core of any garment. One quick way to test is by flipping the shirt inside out. 

Branded plus-size clothing will feature neat, straight, and tight stitches. Wanna know about fake clothing? Check for loose threads, zigzag lines, or mismatched corners.

Mostly, we don’t concentrate on this! If you’re paying the company for quality, they are going to make the stitching neat. Whereas fakes, made in quantity and cranked out quickly, won't pass this simple test.

Feel the Fabric

One of the easiest giveaways is the texture of the fabric. Branded plus size tops are made of strong, breathable, and comfortable materials. The moment you touch them, you can immediately distinguish whatever the stuff is. They will be heavier, smoother, or softer depending on the material used.

On the other hand, fakes use inexpensive blends that are scratchy or too thin. You’ll agree only if you’ve worn a fake cotton tee that made you sweat twice as much! Yeah, that's what I'm talking about. If the stuff feels wispy or scratchy, just walk away.

Check the Logo Placement

Logos are often the first thing people notice, but also the easiest detail fakes get wrong. So, you must pay attention to logo placement, size, and stitching. For instance, if you’re looking at a polo shirt with a horse logo that looks more like a donkey, that’s your sign to catch.

Originals are very particular when it comes to logo position and style, which means they don't tamper with their classic image. If the embroidery is lopsided, off-centre, or strangely dyed, don't be fooled.

Inspect Packaging

Believe it or not, even the packaging speaks the truth. Most acknowledge brand wear typically comes with quality packaging. The package includes rugged boxes, brand-printed paper bags, or even personalized wraps. Whereas on the flipping side, the fake one! They will usually come in thin plastic covers folded over without attention to detail.

If the packaging is too plain-looking or looks like it has come straight from a wholesale supplier, that is a giveaway, too.

Ask for a Receipt or Warranty

This is so underappreciated. Actual retailers will always give you a legitimate receipt, and sometimes even an exchange or warranty policy. Market vendors with fake goods? They'll do anything not to give you receipts or give you one that suspiciously appears to be a template.

So don't be scared. Request a receipt. And if they want to argue or complain, it's your cue to politely put that shirt back on the rack and walk away.

Buy from Authorized Retailers

The safest way to avoid fakes is to shop from authorized stores. Dubai has plenty of them: The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre, and even outlet villages where you’ll find legit branded clothing at discounted rates.

If you’re shopping for plus-size options, specialized stores like Big Boyz Collection offer shirts that not only fit well but also guarantee authenticity. Yes, the prices may be slightly higher than what you’ll find in market stalls, but at least you’ll know your purchase will last longer than two washes.

Also, some stores in places like Karama or Dragon Mart may appear tempting, but remember, authenticity matters. For peace of mind, you can visit authorised brand stores or trustworthy online retailers. And always make sure they've got a real contact number, working hours, or a physical store address on their page.

Conclusion

At the end of this article, Dubai malls are a shopper's paradise for a fashion freak, although they also have some of their own kind of fake "branded" items in disguise to ensnare unsuspecting customers. Specifically, for plus-size apparel, the threat is felt even more because getting trendy, cozy, and genuine items is in itself challenging.

By checking the price, labels, stitching, fabric, logos, and packaging, and most importantly, sticking to official retailers, you can save yourself the letdown. Fashion is in everything about the label as well as people; it's also about how good you look in it. And you feel good when you are confident wearing it. And confidence does not come from a fake shirt that pops after its first wash.

Also Read: Why Plus Size Clothing Often Costs More