I just tried on a Fendi fur piece in Rome, priced at over €30,000. Fendi, darling, is the epitome of opulence, and they know fur like no one else. Mink, sable, shearling—you name it, they’ve mastered it. As someone who owns several vintage mink coats, I can instantly tell the difference between fake and real fur. It’s not just about the look; it’s the texture, the way it moves, the way it makes you feel. There’s nothing like slipping into genuine fur and feeling like royalty. So, imagine my surprise when I came across a Fendi jacket that didn’t quite meet those luxurious standards.

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Fendi - Vestiaries Collective Fake Fur Versus Real Fendi Fur

1996 Fur Sold On vestiare collective

Vintage Fendi

Let’s rewind to the moment I purchased a 1996 Fendi leather jacket from Vestiaire Collective. Now, I live for vintage Fendi—there’s something about owning a piece of history that speaks to my soul. The description said “fur.” Naturally, I was thrilled! But the moment I unboxed it, I knew something was off. It felt like sandpaper against my skin. This wasn’t the Fendi I know, love, and trust. Fendi fur should feel like a cloud, not polyester. The label didn’t mention fur at all. “Vera pelle,” it said. Apparently, that means “real fur,” but it certainly didn’t feel like the genuine article. I immediately questioned whether it was shearling, perhaps, but even that didn’t match up to Fendi’s standards.

Here’s the kicker: I’ve got 48 hours to return this item and contest the sale. The clock’s ticking. Vestiaire Collective, a fashion lover’s dream and a vintage shopping hub, has an excellent support team.

Fendi - Vestiaries Collective Fake Fur Versus Real Fendi Fur Fendi - Vestiaries Collective Fake Fur Versus Real Fendi Fur

Never Worn

They claim to double-check every item for authenticity, but this one slipped through. I trust them, but as a seasoned fur connoisseur, I trust my own instincts more. I can’t believe this piece was described as fur. I’ve worn countless Fendi pieces over the years, and this? It’s just not right.

The label said it was “never worn.” Well, honey, if this jacket wasn’t worn, then I’m a size zero. The cuffs were unstitched—another red flag. No one ever said buying vintage was easy, but when you’re investing in something as iconic as Fendi, there are expectations. You expect craftsmanship, quality, and an unmistakable luxurious feel. This jacket didn’t tick those boxes.

It’s funny—just because something carries a high price tag doesn’t mean it’s automatically genuine. A Fendi fur coat would be flawless, but as I stand here, staring at this questionable jacket, I realize even the most prestigious brands can have their off days. I’m on a mission to get to the bottom of this mystery. Is it shearling? Is it synthetic?

Only Vestiaire’s verification process can confirm it, but my gut tells me it’s a faux fur disaster.

Fendi - Vestiaries Collective Fake Fur Versus Real Fendi Fur

Real Fur

There’s something about fur that feels like a rite of passage into the world of luxury. Real fur makes you feel powerful, elegant, and timeless. I’ve adored Fendi for years—who doesn’t? From their iconic baguette bags to their fur-lined outerwear, they’ve set the gold standard for high fashion. Owning a piece of Fendi is like owning a slice of luxury history. And I won’t settle for anything less than the best.

As I pack this jacket back into its box to return it, I can’t help but feel a pang of disappointment. There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of receiving a piece of luxury and the crushing reality when it doesn’t live up to expectations. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love fashion but also why I’m so picky about it. Real fur has a story, a legacy, and a feel that can’t be replicated. When it’s right, you know it. And this? This wasn’t it.

I’ve dealt with enough fur in my time to know the difference. Real fur moves differently. It drapes in a way that synthetic materials can only dream of. Fendi knows that, too.

That’s why their pieces come with such a high price tag. You’re not just paying for a coat—you’re paying for craftsmanship, tradition, and that unmistakable feeling of indulgence. This jacket, though? It failed me.

Fendi - Vestiaries Collective Fake Fur Versus Real Fendi Fur

1996 Fake Fur?

Vestiaire Collective Support Team

Now, this isn’t to say Vestiaire Collective doesn’t do a fabulous job. I’ve bought several pieces from them before, and they’ve all been top-notch. But this jacket just wasn’t it. I’ll be sending it back, and I expect their support team to verify if it’s indeed real fur or not. That’s the beauty of shopping with trusted platforms—you have the option to contest and return when things don’t go as planned.

There’s something exhilarating about shopping for vintage fashion. Every piece has a story, and you feel like you’re discovering a hidden gem. But as with all treasure hunts, not every find is as valuable as you hoped. This Fendi jacket will go back into the wild, and I’ll be on the hunt again for that perfect piece of fur to add to my collection.

Fashion, darling, is full of surprises. Some delightful, others disappointing. But it’s all part of the journey.

Fendi - Vestiaries Collective Fake Fur Versus Real Fendi Fur

1996 Fake Fur?

And as someone who loves opulence and has spent years curating a wardrobe that reflects that, I know when something is worth keeping. This jacket? I’m sending it right back. Fendi will always hold a special place in my heart, but this piece didn’t meet the mark.

The lesson here? Always trust your instincts when it comes to luxury fashion. Labels can say one thing, but the feel, the craftsmanship, and the quality will always tell the real story. And trust me, when it comes to fur, Fendi usually gets it right.