First off, like, duh, check the box! Seriously, the box itself can be a dead giveaway. Is it flimsy? Does the logo look kinda… off? The real deal McQueen box is usually pretty sturdy and the logo is crisp, like, *crisp*. If it looks like they printed it on a potato, you’ve got a problem. And yeah, I know, boxes can be switched, but it’s a good starting point, ya know?
Now, the shoelaces! This might sound weird, but apparently, the laces on real McQueen sneakers are, like, superior. They’re supposed to be flat and feel… expensive? I don’t know, I’m not a shoelace expert, but that’s what I’m hearing. Fakes usually have cheaper, thinner laces. I mean, come on, it’s all about the details!
Stitching. Okay, this is where it gets a little more technical. You gotta really *look* at the stitching, especially around the heel. Apparently, there’s supposed to be a distinctive “bump” around the heel. I’m not entirely sure what that means, exactly, but the sources I’ve found say that it is a key indicator. Also, check the stitching itself. Is it clean and even? Or is it all wonky and messy? Good stitching = probably legit. Bad stitching = red flag city.
Oh, and the logo! Don’t just glance at it. *Really* look at it. Is it aligned properly? Is the font correct? Even the slightest difference can be a sign that it’s a fake. Trust your gut! If something feels off, it probably is.
Speaking of feeling, the overall craftsmanship should be top-notch. McQueens are expensive for a reason, right? They’re made with quality materials and attention to detail. If the shoe feels cheap or poorly made, it’s probably a fake. I mean, use your common sense, people!
And listen, don’t just rely on one thing. Check *everything*. The box, the laces, the stitching, the logo, the overall feel. The more things that seem off, the more likely you are dealing with a fake.
Honestly, the best way to avoid getting ripped off is to buy from reputable sellers. Authorized retailers, department stores, you know the drill. Avoid those “too good to be true” deals on shady websites. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Lesson of the story – don’t be cheap when buying expensive things!
