Real vs. Fake: How to Identify An Authentic Denim Tears Long Sleeve Cotton Wreath Tee

6th August 2025 EDT RELEASES

Real vs. Fake: How to Identify An Authentic Denim Tears Long Sleeve Cotton Wreath Tee

Expert tips on tag details, UV light tests, neckline differences, and wreath texture.

Real vs. Fake: How to Identify An Authentic Denim Tears Long Sleeve Cotton Wreath Tee

DENIM TEARS Long Sleeve Cotton Wreath Tee "Black" Retail US$

Denim Tears, founded in 2019 by Tremaine Emory—founder of London’s creative label NO VACANCY INN and former consultant to Stüssy, Ye, and Frank Ocean—is a fashion brand with a powerful mission: to tell the stories of African Americans who were subjected to slavery.

Their signature cotton wreath motif has become particularly popular, especially on classic items like their cotton wreath tees. However, this popularity has also led to a surge of counterfeit products in the secondary market, making vigilance essential when purchasing.

In this feature, we zoom in on the black long sleeve cotton wreath tee and reveal how professional authenticators at SNKRDUNK distinguish the real from the fake. While this offers only a glimpse into the authentication process, it’s a valuable guide for anyone hesitant about buying in the resale market.

About the Denim Tears Long Sleeve Cotton Wreath Tee

Denim Tears Long Sleeve Cotton Wreath Tee Real vs Fake

From its rapid rise to streetwear stardom, Denim Tears has established itself as a leading brand, with its iconic cotton wreath design drawing inspiration from the history of Black slavery and the cotton industry.

View on SNKRDUNK

Authentication Points

▪ Brand Tag

First, let’s take a close look at the brand tag. Notice the wreath emblem near the center—there are subtle differences in the detailing and pitch between authentic and counterfeit pieces.

▪ Brand Tag (UV Exposure)

Next, shine a UV light on the brand tag. The real tag glows brightly overall, while the fake only shows partial illumination.

▪ Quality Tag

Checking the quality tag, you’ll see the authentic item features clear, crisp printing. In contrast, the fake’s text is faint and blurry.

▪ Neckline

When it comes to the neckline, fakes have a narrower collar and a wider ribbed band compared to the originals.

▪ Wreath Motif

The iconic wreath on the front doesn’t easily reveal any visual differences between real and fake at first glance. However, test the body’s wreath under UV light: the genuine tee emits a glow, whereas the counterfeit barely lights up.

▪ Wreath Motif (Inner Lining)

Flip the wreath patch to the back—real pieces have distinct texture and depth, while fakes are almost flat. Also, the white wreath overlay on the fake is noticeably more transparent and stands out compared to the authentic.

Conclusion

The authentication points mentioned here are only a part of the process. At SNKRDUNK, our expert authenticators examine numerous other factors to make a comprehensive judgment.

With counterfeit manufacturing techniques advancing every day, it has become extremely difficult for non-experts to accurately spot fakes on their own. That’s precisely why we recommend purchasing through SNKRDUNK, where you benefit from highly precise authentication conducted by professional examiners.

What is SNKRDUNK Lab?

As a leader in the industry, our lab is dedicated to tackling the social and economic problems caused by counterfeit goods. We aim to improve authentication technology and raise awareness about fakes by strengthening our partnerships with domestic and international experts and research institutions. By combining technology, data, and human expertise, we are creating the future standard for what is authentic.

Our Main Activities

Investigating and Researching Counterfeit Goods
SNKRDUNK currently maintains an authentication accuracy rate of 99.97%. We will continue to conduct research and investigations, utilizing Japan’s largest database of counterfeit products to stay ahead of the curve.

Improving Our Authentication Technology
By introducing and researching various tools, including X-ray, infrared, and microscopes, we are enhancing our technology to ensure we can authenticate every single item.

Communicating for Public Awareness
We will regularly publish market reports based on our partnerships with external organizations and experts, as well as on insights and research findings gathered from the field.