What photos should I ask for?
Flat lay front and back in natural light; the chest patch close up; the neck and care labels; the zipper slider; the lining; and any flaw the seller mentions. A seller who will not send a label photo is the first red flag. Video of the fabric moving is the best signal of all.
What should the listing state?
The model or style, colour, tagged size, flat measurements, condition with specific flaws, and origin label. Vague listings — 'vintage Carhartt jacket, size L' with one photo — are where mistakes and fakes hide.
How do I check authenticity from photos?
Chest patch stitched tightly on four sides with crisp lettering; a woven neck label with a model code and origin; heavy brass hardware stamped Talon, Scovill or YKK; dense, even stitching. Compare against a known-genuine example of the same model.
What about measurements?
Ask for pit to pit, length, shoulder and sleeve on jackets; waist, inseam, rise and leg opening on pants. Compare with a garment you own. Never buy a vintage piece on tagged size alone — shrinkage makes it meaningless.
How should I pay?
Through a platform with buyer protection where possible, or by a method with recourse. For direct purchases from a studio or wholesaler, expect an invoice, a clear refund-or-replace policy for misdescribed goods, and photos of the exact piece before payment. We send photos and video of the exact piece and invoice before you pay.
What are the red flags?
Prices far below the market for the model, stock photos, refusal to show labels, 'all sizes available' on a single vintage piece without explanation, no measurements, and pressure to pay outside a protected channel. Any two together and you walk.
We grade 97 pieces by these rules
Everything written here comes from grading and reworking Carhartt every day. Browse what's in now, or message us and we'll send photos and measurements of anything.