How to Spot a Knockoff: A Guide to Buying Authentic Furniture Online
By Marc P. Misthal
No one really wants a knockoff. They may be less expensive than an authentic piece, but the quality is often not as good (I have heard more than one story about a knock-off chair collapsing with someone in it). There also could be bigger concerns with knockoff furniture—the possibility of underpaid labor; child labor could be involved; it is unclear, at best, where the profits from the sale of these items go; or the knockoff could be made from materials that are not environmentally friendly.
Since knockoffs often mimic authentic items, how can you tell a genuine piece from a knockoff, especially online? Here are some things to look for while shopping:
Is the price too good to be true?
This is often the single biggest reason people purchase knockoffs, and it is probably the easiest way to identify a knock-off.
Does the seller say the piece is not authentic?
Some sellers/companies will say things like “this item is not manufactured by or affiliated with the original designer(s) and associated parties. We do not claim any rights on any third-party trademarks.” Other sellers/companies will identify their items as “replicas” or “inspired by” the authentic piece.
What name is being used for the piece?
Some sellers/companies use the exact name of the authentic piece to deceive buyers/specifiers, while others tweak spellings or add words to try to skirt legal issues, though this isn't always effective. Sometimes, entirely new names are used to suggest similarity without direct imitation (think Pavillion Chair rather than Barcelona Chair).
Compare and Contrast.
Compare the item you are considering to the authentic item. A knockoff may have slightly different dimensions or detailing.
Ask About Sustainability Features.
Authentic pieces often use eco-friendly or sustainable practices. It might be a knockoff if the seller/company can’t verify these aspects. Further, it is worthwhile to verify certification claims. Some knockoffs falsely claim certifications (like "eco-friendly" or "handmade"). Cross-check these claims on the brand's official website, with your rep or through reputable databases (Underwriters Laboratories, for example).
Brand-Specific Manufacturing Locations.
Many manufacturers of authentic furniture manufacture their products in specific countries or regions. If a piece is made in an unusual or unexpected location, that could be a red flag.
Carefully review product listings.
Genuine furniture listings often provide detailed specifications, clear photos from multiple angles, and accurate dimensions. Knockoffs may have vague descriptions or use generic stock photos or photos copied from a website selling the authentic product. Alternatively, sellers of knockoffs may use overly detailed descriptions to convince buyers of the item's authenticity, often peppering product listings with fancy jargon or irrelevant details.
Investigate Customer Photos.
Customer images often reveal the true quality of the item. Look for photos from previous buyers/specifiers and compare them with the official brand’s designs. Look closely and zoom in for telltale signs of poor craftsmanship like uneven seams, staples, loose threads, misaligned fixtures, low-quality materials, or mismatched designs. Compare the images to those on the authentic brand's website.
Look for "Too Perfect" Listings.
Knockoff listings sometimes use heavily edited images or AI generated images to create staged setups that appear unrealistically flawless—another potential clue.
Ask the Seller Questions.
Message the seller/company to inquire about origin, materials, and warranties. Genuine sellers/companies should provide prompt and detailed responses that can be compared against the authentic item.
Watch for Hidden Fees.
Unscrupulous sellers/companies may add unexpected shipping or handling fees after purchase, which can be a tactic to recoup losses on counterfeit items.
Trust Your Gut.
If something feels "off," whether it's the price, quality, or seller/company interaction, proceed with caution.
While "classic" designs are always desired, knockoffs are not. Rather than purchasing or specifying a knockoff, consider supporting new work by emerging designers. While these contemporary creations may not yet have the legacy of established icons, they represent the future of design—fresh, relevant, and responsive to the present moment. Without support, these designers may never have the chance to shape tomorrow’s classics. In contrast, knockoffs merely enrich manufacturers more concerned with profit than creativity. To foster originality and meaningful design, reject knockoffs and invest in authentic, forward-looking work. The strategies outlined above offer a practical path to doing just that.