Where can I buy original clothes online in Nigeria without fear of getting scammed?”
— If this sounds like your daily Google search, you’re not alone.
Let’s be honest, online shopping is one of the best inventions of our time. No queues. No sweaty market runs. No Lagos traffic wahala. 🙌 Just you, your phone, and your next fabulous outfit delivered to your doorstep.
From comparing prices and converting currencies instantly to checking customer reviews before buying, it’s the ultimate stress-free shopping experience.
But here’s the catch…
While genuine online stores do exist, scammers are lurking in the shadows — ready to snatch your money and vanish faster than NEPA light.
The internet makes it easier for fraudsters to hide behind fake websites, cloned Instagram pages, and mouth-watering “deals.” That’s why knowing what to watch out for is the real fashion essential.
Below is the complete guide to avoid getting defrauded shopping online within and outside Nigeria, curated by DexStitches to bring trust to buying on the web.
How do I check if an online clothing website is safe before placing an order?”
— If this thought has delayed you from checking out, you’re in good company.
Fashion shopping in Nigeria’s online space has exploded, but so have scams. With countless Instagram vendors, Telegram resellers, WhatsApp sellers, and pop-up ads, it’s harder than ever to know which platforms are genuine. From fake Nike sneakers to substandard Boohoo dresses, shoppers have seen it all. The good news? You can shop fashion online safely if you know what to look out for. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to protect yourself, avoid scams, and shop confidently across platforms Nigerians use daily. By the end, you’ll have a simple checklist for spotting red flags and identifying trusted fashion stores online.
First, we give you a general check, then we share a holistic approach for the most common shopping options, Instagram and websites.
General Overview
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Stick to reputable & specialized platforms: The safest route is shopping with trusted websites that have proven track records over the years. Preferably choose niche sites dedicated to what you’re looking for. For example, Alibaba for wholesale items, DexStitches.com for fashion products in Nigeria, ASOS.com for fashion from the UK, Branda.com.ng for custom plain and printed merchs in Nigeria, Amazon for global gift items, or StudentsWarehouse for paper supplies. These platforms are specialized, established, and more secure.
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Investigate the company like a detective: If you’re coming across a store for the first time, don’t rush. Research them thoroughly, just like you’d investigate land before buying. Start with their website. Check Google reviews, independent review platforms, and whether they’ve been featured in news articles or credible blogs.
Verify how long the site has been active by using “Who Is” (https://who.is/) and paste the domain to see its registration details. For instance, DexStitches.com has existed since 2015. Compare that with their social media presence, look at username history, posting activity, and consistency. If the account is new, barely active, or suddenly offering unbelievable deals, that’s a red flag.
3. Ask for Payment on Delivery (POD) & Return Policy if Not Available
Whenever possible, go for “Pay on Delivery.” This is your best insurance, especially for new or unverified sellers. If they insist on full payment before delivery and their page screams “Buy Now or Miss Out!”… that’s a red flag waving in 4K. Some platforms might have strict rules on upfront payment. In that case, try negotiating as a first-time buyer to make a part payment and balance on delivery. If that’s not an option, carefully read and confirm they have a clear return and refund policy that aligns with your shopping terms before making any payment. If they only accept full upfront, then make sure you’ve done your due diligence using the first and second suggestions above before proceeding.
4. Don’t Fall for “Too Good to Be True” Deals
A Nike Air Max for ₦90,000, with a free backpack and 24-hour delivery?
That’s not a bargain, that’s a trap. Scammers prey on FOMO (fear of missing out). If the deal looks ridiculous, it probably is. Always compare prices with trusted vendors. If it’s way off, don’t think twice, run!
5. Double Check Again
Even if your friend recommends a website, do your own verification. Many people get scammed by “vendors” who later go rogue. For first-time deals, opt for secure payment gateways like Paystack, which keep transaction records and histories that come in handy if things go sideways. Also, always screenshot your chats and receipts—proof is your best backup if anything goes wrong.
“What are the red flags to watch out for before paying an Instagram vendor?”
— If you’ve asked yourself this while scrolling through flashy pages, you’re definitely not the only one.
Top 15 Red Flags Checks to Make On Instagram Before Making Payment
Here are the top Instagram scammer red flags every fashion shopper in Nigeria should look out for:
1. Disabled Comments
If a store constantly turns off comments, it’s usually because they don’t want real customers calling them out.
2. No Stories or Real-Time Updates
Legit brands share stories, behind-the-scenes content, or customer reposts. A lack of stories may signal a fake page.
3. No Real Pictures
Scammers usually post only stock photos or images stolen from other brands. If there are no original photos of their own products or customers, be cautious.
4. No Contact Information
Trustworthy businesses list a phone number, email, or address. If none is available, it’s a huge red flag.
5. Fake Engagement
When an account has 10,000 followers but only 10 likes per post, the engagement doesn’t add up — followers may be fake.
6. Business Handle Doesn’t Match Store Name
If their Instagram handle is different from their supposed brand name, they may be hiding from bad reviews.
7. Frequent Username Changes
Changing usernames often is a classic scammer move to escape reports and start fresh.
8. Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers
Luxury sneakers or designer bags at 80–90% off? That’s almost always a scam.
9. No Tagged Photos
If no customers have ever tagged the business, it may not have real buyers.
10. Comment Section Filled With Bots
Generic comments like “Nice pic!” or “🔥🔥🔥” on a store post usually indicate fake engagement.
11. Recently Created Account
A new page claiming to be “established since 2015”? Check the account creation date.
12. Overuse of Giveaways
Many fake stores run constant giveaways but never deliver. It’s a trick to gain trust.
13. Suspicious Payment Requests
Legit businesses have proper payment options. Be wary if they only ask for personal bank transfers or accounts not in the business name.
14. Inconsistent Branding
If their logo, colors, or tone keep changing, it’s likely not a real business.
15. Unverified Testimonials
Reviews that look copied, vague, or use stock profile photos are almost always fake.
Conclusion
Before shopping on Instagram, always research the store. Look for real reviews, tagged customer photos, and secure payment methods. If too many of these red flags appear, don’t shop there.
Which fashion websites in Nigeria can I actually trust with my money?”
— If this sounds like your daily debate before shopping, many other shoppers feel the same way.
Top 15 Red Flags Checks to Make On Any Shopping Website Before Making Payment
Here are the top website scammer red flags every fashion shopper in Nigeria should look out for:
Legit stores use secure platforms like Paystack, Flutterwave, or card payments. Be cautious if they only accept:
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Personal bank transfers
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Cryptocurrency
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Accounts with names different from the store
2. No HTTPS Security
Always check the URL. If it doesn’t start with https:// or doesn’t show a padlock icon, your information is not safe.
3. Unrealistic Discounts
If a website offers 70–90% off luxury products with no explanation, it’s most likely a scam.
4. No Physical Address or Contact Details
If you can’t find a valid phone number, email, or address, the store is hiding something.
5. Recently Created Domain
You can check how old a website is using WHOIS lookup. If it was created just a few months ago but claims to have been around for years, that’s a red flag.
6. No Refund or Return Policy
If the policy is vague, hidden, or makes it impossible to get your money back, avoid the site.
7. Poor Grammar & Spelling
Legit businesses invest in professional content. Multiple typos and awkward phrasing are signs of a scam.
8. Copied or Low-Quality Photos
If product images look stolen or blurry, the site likely doesn’t have the actual items.
9. No About Us Page or Generic Text
A real store introduces its team, story, and mission. If the page is vague or uses stock images, be cautious.
10. No Customer Reviews
Or if all reviews are suspiciously positive, identical, or posted at the same time, it’s fake.
11. Unprofessional Design
Broken links, missing images, or messy design show the website isn’t trustworthy.
12. No Social Media Links
If the website has no Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok presence — or the links lead to empty accounts — that’s a sign it’s fake.
13. Inconsistent Branding
Different logos, fonts, or color schemes suggest it was quickly thrown together.
14. Unsecured Checkout Page
Before paying, check the payment page for https:// security. If you get a browser warning, stop immediately.
15. Fake Urgency Tactics
“Only 1 left!” or fake countdown timers on every product are designed to rush you into a bad purchase.
Conclusion
Always take a few minutes to verify a website before shopping. A quick Google search, WHOIS check, and scan through reviews can save you from losing money. When in doubt, don’t buy.
Popular Shopping Problems vs General Fix vs DexStitches.com Fix
âś… 1. The Ghost Seller Scam
Most searched phrase: “How do I confirm if an online clothing vendor is legit in Nigeria?”
🚨 The Problem:
Ghost vendors are everywhere. They create visually appealing social media pages, display attractive items, lure you in, take your money — and vanish without delivering anything.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Search for business registration or CAC number if stated.
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Visit the website — does it allow you to pay online securely?
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Check for contact options beyond DM (email, WhatsApp, physical location).
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Look up the brand’s name plus “review” or “complaint” on Google.
🧠Interactive Tip: Search “[vendor name] + reviews” on Twitter or TikTok. Nigerian shoppers are very vocal — and you’ll likely find red flags there.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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DexStitches is a verified business with a real e-commerce platform.
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Contact is available via WhatsApp, chat, email, and phone.
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Orders can be tracked, and all info is publicly visible.
âś… 2. The Fake Product Trap
Most searched phrase: “How to know if online clothes are original in Nigeria?”
🚨 The Problem:
Vendors post foreign fashion brand photos — but deliver substandard, local, or even used items. Some even use AI-generated images now.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Use Google Lens or reverse image search to detect stolen images.
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Ask the seller to send a short video or custom image of the item.
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Check if the product description states fabric, fit, origin, or authenticity.
🧠Interactive Tip: DM the vendor this: “Can I see the back of this shirt in a real video?” Their response will tell you everything.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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Items are categorized: Original (direct from brands) or Verified Quality (carefully vetted).
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First-time buyers can request real confirmation images before shipment.
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Product pages list clear details, including size, fabric, and authenticity.
âś… 3. The Urgency Trap
Most searched phrase: “Are Instagram flash sales on clothes real or scam?”
🚨 The Problem:
Scammers create artificial urgency with fake countdowns or “Only 2 left!” messages to rush you into paying without thinking clearly.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Pause. If it’s a real item, it will still be there in 20 minutes.
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Compare with other platforms.
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Avoid sellers who respond with “Send now or I’ll sell to someone else.”
🧠Interactive Tip: Screenshot the flash sale. Search the same item name on Google. If it’s available elsewhere for a similar price — it’s probably not urgent.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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We never use manipulative countdowns.
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If stock is running low, it’s marked transparently.
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Cart saves your item without pressuring you to checkout instantly.
âś… 4. No Refunds, No Returns
Most searched phrase: “How to return clothes bought online in Nigeria?”
🚨 The Problem:
Many vendors say “no refunds after payment.” Even when the product is incorrect, wrong-sized, or low quality, they avoid taking responsibility.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Ask about refund policy before buying.
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Request a copy of the seller’s return terms.
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Use platforms that clearly publish refund info.
🧠Interactive Tip: Send this question before payment: “If I get the wrong size, can I exchange it?” Their response will give you insight into their integrity.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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Clear refund & return policy — displayed on product pages.
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Items can be exchanged or refunded if there’s a quality or size issue.
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Easy process. No drama.
âś… 5. Stolen Reviews & Testimonials
Most searched phrase: “How do I know if customer reviews are real or fake?”
🚨 The Problem:
Some vendors copy and paste reviews from other pages or use AI-generated ones. No real customer identity is tied to the review.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Look for images or video testimonials.
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Check if reviews appear on multiple unrelated pages (Google search snippets help).
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Check if customer names are consistent.
🧠Interactive Tip: Paste a review in Google with quotes around it: “I love this top, it fits perfectly.” If it appears word-for-word on another site — it’s fake.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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All reviews are from verified buyers who checked out through our platform.
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Real names. Real pictures. Real feedback.
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You can even leave your own after purchase.
âś… 6. Unbelievable Prices
Most searched phrase: “Where can I buy cheap but original clothes online in Nigeria?”
🚨 The Problem:
Scam vendors lure you with ridiculous pricing — like N5,000 for designer sneakers. Then either ghost you or send fake items.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Know the market price range.
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Check multiple vendors for same product.
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Be wary if a vendor undercuts everyone else.
🧠Interactive Tip: Search “Average price of [brand item] in Nigeria” on Google or Jiji to see the usual price range. If it’s half the price with no explanation — run.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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Transparent pricing structure based on originality:
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Original: Direct brand or distributor
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Verified: High-quality, inspected alternative
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You always know what you’re paying for.
âś… 7. Unsafe Payment Requests
Most searched phrase: “Is it safe to pay for clothes via transfer in Nigeria?”
🚨 The Problem:
You pay into a personal account. The seller disappears. No accountability. No legal trail.
🕵🏽‍♀️ How to Protect Yourself:
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Use only business accounts or payment gateways.
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Avoid vendors who insist on transfer to personal names.
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Save all receipts and chats — for proof.
🧠Interactive Tip: Ask: “Can I use a card to pay on your website?” If they say no, or avoid the question, it’s a red flag.
đź’Ľ DexStitches Solution:
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Multiple secure options: Paystack (card, bank, transfer).
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All manual payments go to business account only.
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Auto-generated receipts and real-time tracking post-payment.
âś… Summary: DexStitches Anti-Scam Solutions
(Bullet Version)
Tired of fashion scams?
Here’s how DexStitches makes sure it never happens to you:
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🔧 Real website, verified Google Business, active support
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📸 Confirmation photos available before shipping
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đź“‹ Clear, itemized product info with originality tag
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đź’ł Secure card & transfer via Paystack or company account
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⚖️ Fair refund & return policy for any valid complaint
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👤 Authentic customer reviews (with pictures)
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🌎 Transparent pricing by brand/source
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đź’¬ Live WhatsApp & email support before and after order
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⏰ No fake countdowns, no pressure sales tactics
⏰ A decade of existence & consistent shoppers satisfaction
