Farfetch has established itself as one of the premier online luxury shopping destinations for men and women. Since its inception in the early 2000s, it has provided a convenient solution for those seeking upscale brands but living far from luxury boutiques. In this comprehensive Farfetch review, we will delve into every aspect of the platform, from its legitimacy and safety to the wide range of products it offers. We will also explore the buying process, shipping options, return policy, payment methods, and potential alternatives. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether Farfetch is the right choice for your luxury fashion needs.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What is Farfetch?
Farfetch is an online luxury fashion retail platform that connects customers with over 700 boutiques and 3500 brands from around the world. Founded in 2007 by Portuguese entrepreneur José Neves, Farfetch has quickly emerged as one of the leading global platforms for luxury fashion. Initially, Farfetch relied on boutique stores and brands to fulfill orders, but it has since expanded to provide its partners the option to fulfill orders independently or use Farfetch’s logistics services. With an expansive selection of clothing, shoes, bags, and homeware from prestigious boutiques across Asia, Europe, and North America, Farfetch offers high-end products to customers in 190 countries.
Farfetch is a legitimate company, publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange. It boasts accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and favorable ratings on platforms like Trustpilot and Sitejabber. With over 10 million app downloads and 35 million website visits, Farfetch offers secure payments, reliable support, and free returns for all orders. Its revenue reached $1 billion in 2019, and it currently has 4.1 million active users.
Is Farfetch Safe?
Safety is a top concern when it comes to online shopping, especially for luxury goods. Fortunately, buying from Farfetch is 100% safe. Farfetch ensures the safety of your personal and payment information through SSL encryption. Additionally, they offer free returns on all orders within 14 days, starting from the day your order was delivered. Once Farfetch receives your return package, the refund process is initiated within six days.
What Products Does Farfetch Sell?
Farfetch offers a vast range of products for women, men, and kids, including new and pre-owned items, from popular brands like Alexander McQueen and Gucci. Their collection includes activewear, bags, bath products, beachwear, belts, bridalwear, coats, collectibles, dresses, fine jewelry, formal wear, fragrances, furniture, gloves, hats, home accessories, lingerie, shoes, sunglasses, tops, watches, and more. The apparel collection, shoes, and bags are particularly popular. In addition to new merchandise, Farfetch also lists pre-owned items in categories like accessories, bags, jewelry, and clothing. While customer reviews often praise the product quality, some criticism has been directed towards Farfetch’s packaging. Furthermore, the absence of customer reviews on product pages can make it challenging to make informed purchasing decisions. Therefore, it’s advisable to exercise your judgment and explore product feedback on community forums before making a purchase.
How Farfetch Works for Buyers
Farfetch has developed a seamless buying process that connects buyers with a global network of fashion boutiques and brands. Let’s take a closer look at how it works:
Step 1: Open an Account
To begin your Farfetch journey, you can either open an account or shop as a guest. However, creating an account offers several advantages. As a Bronze member, you automatically gain access to Farfetch’s loyalty program, which includes perks based on your annual spending, such as discounts and special offers. Additionally, having an account allows you to save favorite items to a wish list and keep items in your shopping cart for future purchases.
Step 2: Go Shopping
Now that you have an account, you can start browsing and shopping on Farfetch. Their user-friendly interface provides an intuitive shopping experience, where you can easily navigate through various categories and filter options to find your desired products. With over 100,000 items to choose from, Farfetch ensures that you’ll have plenty of options to explore.
Farfetch Shipping
Farfetch offers different shipping options to cater to various needs. At checkout, you can select from the following shipping methods:
- F90 delivery: This option is available in select cities like London and Paris. It guarantees delivery within 90 minutes of placing an order.
- Same-day delivery: If you’re located in cities like Miami and Shanghai, orders placed before 11 am will be delivered on the same business day.
- Standard shipping: This method takes two to six days for delivery.
- Express shipping: Customers in most of Europe and the US can expect their orders within two to five days, while the rest of the world generally receives orders in three to seven days.
Farfetch partners with renowned courier services such as DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or DPD to handle order delivery. They also offer free delivery for specific locations and minimum order amounts.
What is Farfetch’s Return Policy?
Farfetch has a generous return policy that allows you to return items within 14 days of delivery to qualify for a refund. It’s important to note that this policy does not cover made-to-order or pre-owned items. If you paid with cryptocurrency, Farfetch extends the return period to 30 days from the order placement date. To ensure your return package arrives within the specified timeframe, Farfetch recommends booking a return collection within seven days of delivery.
The returns process is straightforward. Log in to your Farfetch account and navigate to the “Orders & Returns” page. Find the order you want to return and click “Return Item(s).” Select the items you wish to return and provide a reason for the return. Once Farfetch receives your return package, they will process the refund within six days. Depending on your payment provider, it may take up to 14 days for the refund to appear in your account.
Farfetch offers two return options: free return shipping and drop-off. You can arrange a courier pickup for free return shipping by providing your collection address. Alternatively, you can opt for in-store drop-off at a Farfetch partner boutique or courier drop-off, depending on your location.
Do You Have to Pay Duties and Taxes on Farfetch Orders?
Farfetch offers shipping to most countries on a Delivery Duties Paid (DDP) basis. This means that all applicable duties and taxes are included in the final order price, and there are no extra expenses upon delivery for the customer. However, if you choose Delivery At Place (DAP) destination, the amount you pay Farfetch will not cover import duties and sales taxes. In such cases, you’ll be responsible for settling these charges directly with the courier to facilitate customs clearance upon arrival.
For US customers, Farfetch does not collect sales tax in all states. Depending on your state’s taxation policies, your purchase may still be subject to sales or use tax.
What Payment Methods Does Farfetch Accept?
Farfetch accepts payments from major credit cards and trusted providers like Klarna and PayPal. The list of global payment methods available for your Farfetch orders includes Afterpay, Alipay, American Express, Apple Pay, Boleto, Cryptocurrency, Diners, Discover, HB Pay, iDEAL, JCB, JDpay, Klarna, Maestro, MasterCard, PayPal, UnionPay, Visa, and WeChat. With such a wide range of payment options, Farfetch ensures a seamless checkout experience for customers worldwide.
Is Farfetch Overpriced?
One common concern when shopping for luxury fashion items is the price. Is Farfetch overpriced? The answer depends on various factors. Farfetch doesn’t own the products they sell, nor do they operate physical stores. Instead, they connect customers with boutique stores and brands that fulfill orders. This means that Farfetch passes on savings to customers by not having to maintain extensive inventory. Many brands also manage their own order fulfillment for Farfetch, further contributing to competitive pricing.
Additionally, Farfetch offers pre-owned items, which are generally priced significantly lower than their original retail value. These pre-owned items provide an excellent opportunity to purchase luxury fashion at a more affordable price point. However, it’s important to note that pricing can vary depending on the specific brand and product.
Overall, Farfetch is an excellent option for shoppers looking to acquire luxury fashion items without breaking the bank.
How to Earn Money from Farfetch?
While Farfetch is primarily a platform for buyers, there are opportunities to earn money through the platform. Here are a few ways to do so:
Affiliate Marketing
You can make money with Farfetch through affiliate marketing. By enrolling in Farfetch’s affiliate program, you can promote their products using unique affiliate links. When a user makes a purchase within 30 days of clicking your link, you receive a commission. The affiliate program is free to join, and you also gain access to the latest product arrivals, new boutiques, and offers through their newsletter, which you can share with your audience.
***Check it out to earn money from Farfetch
Referring Friends
Another way to earn money from Farfetch is by referring friends. By sharing your referral link, when your friends place an order, you receive a 10% discount on your next order. This provides an incentive for you to spread the word about Farfetch and potentially earn discounts on your own purchases.
Second Life Program
If you have designer bags that you no longer use, you can sell them through Farfetch’s Second Life program. Simply upload images of the bag you want to sell, and Farfetch will respond with a quote within three business days. Once you approve the quote, schedule a collection time for bag pickup. After the Farfetch team receives and verifies your bag, the credit is applied to your Farfetch account. It’s important to note that with the Second Life service, you earn credits rather than cash, which can only be used for shopping on Farfetch. Therefore, this option is more suitable for frequent Farfetch shoppers.
Farfetch Pros and Cons
Like any platform, Farfetch has its pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Farfetch stand out, as well as areas where it could improve.
Farfetch Pros
- Extensive Collection: Farfetch offers an impressive selection of designers and products, ensuring that customers have a wide range of options to choose from.
- Shipping Options: Farfetch provides various shipping options, including same-day and next-day delivery, ensuring that customers receive their orders quickly.
- User-Friendly Interface: Farfetch’s intuitive design makes it easy to create an account, browse products, and complete purchases.
- Free Returns: Farfetch covers the cost of return shipping for all orders, streamlining the return process.
Farfetch Cons
- Customer Service: Some customers have reported slow response times from Farfetch’s customer service, which can be frustrating when seeking assistance with urgent or complicated issues.
- Lack of Customer Reviews: Unlike many online stores, Farfetch does not offer customer reviews on product pages, making it difficult to access customer feedback before making a purchase.
- Short Return Window: Farfetch requires return items to be delivered to their warehouse within 14 days of receipt. This can be challenging, especially for customers in remote or distant areas.
It’s important to consider these pros and cons when deciding whether to purchase from Farfetch. While it offers a wide range of luxury fashion items, it’s essential to weigh these factors against your specific needs and preferences.
The Truth About Farfetch Reviews
When considering a platform like Farfetch, it’s crucial to look at customer reviews to gain insights into the overall shopping experience. Farfetch holds a review rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot and 3 out of 5 stars on Sitejabber. While many customers have had positive experiences with Farfetch, there are a few common issues that have been raised in reviews. Let’s dive into these concerns and provide tips on how to navigate them.
Farfetch Review #1: Short Return Window
One common complaint from customers is the short return window. Farfetch’s return policy requires items to reach their warehouse within 14 days of delivery. This can be challenging, especially for customers in remote or distant areas. If you anticipate potential delays in returning an item, it’s advisable to contact Farfetch support for an extension on the 14-day window. It’s also essential to ensure that all items are in excellent condition before initiating a return, as Farfetch retains the right to cancel return orders if items are not in the same condition as received or if packaging materials are missing.
Farfetch Review #2: Slow Customer Support
Some customers have reported slow response times from Farfetch’s customer support team. While Farfetch offers 24/7 email support from Monday to Friday and limited weekend hours, response times can take over one business day. Therefore, it’s best to avoid placing complex or urgent orders, given that customer support responses may not be immediate.
Farfetch Review #3: Multiple Deliveries for a Single Order
Several customers have expressed frustration with receiving multiple deliveries for a single order. However, it’s important to understand that Farfetch operates similarly to Amazon, where brands have the option to fulfill orders independently. If a customer orders products from different brands, they may receive separate deliveries. To ensure a single or consolidated shipment, customers should purchase products from the same boutique store.
Farfetch Alternatives
While Farfetch offers a wide range of luxury fashion items, it’s always beneficial to explore alternative platforms to find the best fit for your needs. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
Net-a-Porter
Net-a-Porter is an online luxury fashion store exclusively for women, offering a collection of 800 coveted global brands. They also prioritize sustainability by offering pre-owned designer goods, vegan beauty products, locally made accessories, and sustainable clothing. With quick delivery, including same-day in select areas, and a 28-day return window, Net-a-Porter is an excellent choice for those seeking designer pieces at competitive prices.
Mytheresa
Mytheresa began as a fashion boutique in 1987 before transitioning into an online store in 2006. They offer ready-to-wear clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories across luxury brands for women, men, and kids. With an annual revenue of €800 million, Mytheresa is a reputable platform known for its high-end fashion items, 30-day return policy, and 24-hour customer service in various regional languages.
SSENSE
SSENSE is a Canadian retailer specializing in high-end fashion and streetwear. They offer the latest styles in men’s and women’s wear, along with shoes and accessories. SSENSE’s return policy allows you to request a return within 30 days of delivery, and they offer free returns to customers in Canada, Japan, and the US. For those seeking a stylish alternative to Farfetch, SSENSE is worth exploring.
Should You Buy From Farfetch?
After considering all the information presented in this comprehensive Farfetch review, you may still be wondering if it’s the right choice for your luxury fashion needs. Farfetch offers a vast selection of luxury products at competitive prices and has received favorable reviews from many customers. However, it’s important to keep in mind the short return window and potential delays in customer support response times. If a 30-day return period is essential to you, exploring alternatives like SSENSE and Mytheresa might be worthwhile.
Ultimately, the decision to buy from Farfetch depends on your preferences, budget, and specific requirements. By conducting thorough research and considering your individual circumstances, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your luxury fashion aspirations.
Farfetch FAQs
Are Farfetch Items Authentic?
Yes, Farfetch items are 100% authentic. They source products directly from brand designers or the Farfetch warehouse.
Does Farfetch Have a Physical Store?
Farfetch operates luxury outlets called “Store of the Future” (SOF) in select cities like London and New York. However, these stores do not stock products; instead, they showcase innovative technology like holographic displays and smart mirrors for virtual product try-on.
Who Owns Farfetch?
Farfetch was founded in 2007 by José Neves, a Portuguese entrepreneur. The company has since grown to become a major player in the luxury fashion industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Farfetch has established itself as a reputable online luxury fashion platform, offering a wide range of products from renowned brands and boutiques. With a user-friendly interface, various shipping options, and a generous return policy, Farfetch provides a convenient and safe shopping experience for customers worldwide. While there are some areas for improvement, such as customer service response times and the short return window, the positive reviews and the company’s success in the market speak to its legitimacy and reliability.
When considering Farfetch, it’s crucial to assess your own needs and preferences. If you require a longer return period or prioritize immediate customer support, exploring alternatives like Net-a-Porter, Mytheresa, and SSENSE may be worth considering. Ultimately, by weighing the pros and cons and conducting thorough research, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your luxury fashion aspirations.
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