Vlisco is renowned for its high-quality African wax prints, and as a consumer, it’s important to ensure you’re purchasing genuine products.

The market is unfortunately flooded with counterfeits of high-value fabrics, making it essential to know how to distinguish between the real deal and imitations.

In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips to help you verify the authenticity of your Vlisco Fabrics BEFORE making a purchase.

As a provider and partner to Vlisco, supplying Genuine Vlisco Fabrics to clients around the globe, Empire Textiles is here to let you know how to spot a fake and avoid wasting money.

 

Identifying Real Vlisco Fabric:

Vlisco is a well-established Dutch textile company that specializes in producing luxurious African wax prints. They print in short, limited runs and are very selective about whom they supply these exclusive fabrics.

Their textiles are highly sought after for their unique designs, vibrant colours, and superior quality. However, due to their popularity, counterfeit versions have emerged, often deceiving unsuspecting buyers. To protect yourself from purchasing fake products, follow these tips:

 

Research and Familiarise Yourself:

Before embarking on a purchase, invest time in researching Vlisco wax print designs, patterns, and trademarks. Familiarize yourself with their signature style and the distinctive features that set them apart. This knowledge will help you identify the genuine fabric more effectively.

Check for the Vlisco Stamp:

One of the most reliable indicators of authenticity is the Vlisco stamp. Genuine Vlisco will have a stamp on the fabric, typically located near the selvedge. This stamp includes important information such as the Vlisco logo, product name, design number, and colour code. Verify the stamp’s presence and ensure it matches the official Vlisco stamp designs.

The Selvedge:

Located on the edge of the fabric, the selvedge should include “Guaranteed Dutch Vlisco Wax” at the bottom and “Veritable Wax Hollandais Vlisco” at the top. There will also be an item number for the design and product range description such as “Super-Wax”.

Examine the Fabric Quality:

Vlisco fabric is known for its exceptional quality. Counterfeit versions often lack the same level of craftsmanship and feel inferior in terms of fabric thickness, texture, and colour vibrancy. Examine the wax print closely, checking for any irregularities, loose threads, or uneven printing, as these are signs of a potential fake.

Observe the Design Details:

Vlisco textiles are renowned for their intricate and detailed designs. Pay close attention to the patterns, motifs, and colours used in the fabric. Genuine Vlisco will exhibit precise printing, crisp lines, and vibrant hues. Any blurriness, smudging, or inconsistencies suggest a counterfeit product.

Verify the Source of Purchase:

When purchasing Vlisco textiles, it’s crucial to buy from reputable sources. Authentic Vlisco products are sold through authorized retailers, Vlisco flagship stores, and trusted online platforms. Be cautious of street vendors or unfamiliar websites offering heavily discounted prices, as they are more likely to sell counterfeit wax prints. Always verify the credibility and authenticity of the seller before making a purchase.

Seek Expert Advice:

If you’re unsure about the authenticity of a Vlisco product, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. There are knowledgeable individuals, such as seasoned fabric collectors, textile experts, or even Vlisco representatives, who can provide guidance. They can help analyse the fabric, design, and overall quality to determine whether it’s genuine or counterfeit. It is important to see a fabric in person though, as images can be an unreliable way of evaluating the authenticity.

Trust Reputable Sellers:

To ensure you’re purchasing genuine Vlisco products, it’s advisable to trust well-known and reputable sellers. Look for sellers with a long-standing history of selling authentic African textiles. Read customer reviews and check for any complaints or negative feedback regarding the seller’s products. Reputable sellers prioritise customer satisfaction and guarantee the authenticity of their products.

Be Wary of Unrealistic Prices:

If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Genuine Vlisco wax prints come at a higher price due to their quality and craftsmanship. Be cautious of sellers offering these products at unrealistically low prices. Counterfeiters often try to attract customers with significantly discounted rates, but the quality of the fabric and the designs will not match the standards set by Vlisco.

Beware of Counterfeit Packaging:

Counterfeiters can be extremely crafty, even replicating Vlisco’s packaging. Always inspect the packaging of the fabric, including the labels, tags, and any accompanying materials. Genuine Vlisco products come with well-designed, branded packaging that reflects the company’s attention to detail. Any discrepancies, poor print quality, or misspelt words indicate a potential fake.

Compare with Genuine Vlisco Wax Prints:

To gain a better understanding of what genuine Vlisco fabric looks and feels like, compare the fabric in question with known authentic Vlisco products. Visit authorised stores or reputable sellers to examine and touch the wax prints firsthand. By familiarizing yourself with genuine articles, you’ll develop a discerning eye for identifying counterfeit products.

 

When purchasing Vlisco wax print fabric, it’s essential to be vigilant and knowledgeable.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can significantly increase your chances of acquiring genuine Vlisco products. Research, examine the fabric quality and design details, verify the source, seek expert advice, and trust reputable sellers.

By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your Vlisco textile is authentic and enjoy the beauty and quality of these exquisite African wax prints.