I’m sure we’ve all gotten an offer for a “replica bag” at one point or another. Maybe you’ve clicked it out of curiosity or you’ve looked at a replica in the store. But the truth is, it’s not what it seems – that bag isn’t the real deal and will soon end up causing nothing but trouble. So, if you’re looking to buy a bag, here are my tips on how to identify a fake.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to pay attention to the material. Authentic high-end bags are typically made from real leather, suede, or canvas. Anything else? Probably ain’t legit. Real leather feels luxe and luxurious, and has a light scent that resembles the smell of real leather. If the material doesn’t feel or smell genuine, then it’s not.
The same goes for logos, patterns and stitching. Make sure to check that the brand logo, serial numbers and patterns are spelled correctly. The stitching should be even, subtle and consistent. If it’s too big or too small, loose or sloppy, it’s a sign that this is a fake.
I’m also a big fan of inspecting the hardware. An authentic bag will usually have a detail or manufacturer’s stamp with the brand logo, label, country of origin and serial number etched into the metal. The hardware should also be solid, weighty and impeccably finished. Anything that doesn’t check off these boxes is likely to be a replica.
Zipping and unzipping a bag is one of the best ways to identify a fake. Pay attention to the zippers; if they are too light, catch often, or hard to open, chances are they are not real. Additionally, many luxury bags have small details such as interior pockets for cards, a naturally textured lining, dust bags and a numbered authentication card. Some brands also have hidden security codes printed on the interior.
Finally, the price is another giveaway. Luxury bags, such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci, have fairly high prices. If the item is being sold for way less than the original price tag, it’s likely a replica. So, if you’re going to invest in a designer bag, do your research and make sure it’s the real deal.
Now let’s get a bit deeper into this topic. When examining the bag for authenticity, it’s important to factor in the source of the bag too. If you’re buying it from an official store, you’re likely safe; however, if you’re buying from an unknown retailer online, there’s more of a chance it could be fake. Always read the reviews before you purchase and check the website of the product yourself. Some even take it a step further and call the store to confirm they are legitimate. Another way to detect a fake bags bag is to buy a replica bags detection kit. It contains different items to help you detect the real from the fake.
Furthermore, if you’re buying second-hand, it’s best to be extra cautious. Many second-hand bags are counterfeits, so I suggest you bring a friend who knows a lot about bags along and ask them to check it out for you. Also, check for any significant signs of wear and tear, and ask the seller how it was acquired.
Don’t forget to also check for spelling mistakes. Replica bags have poor-quality embroidery and incorrect spellings compared to real bags, so pay attention to that. Look for generic names and phrases, misspelled words or misused terms. Plus, if you’re buying a more expensive bag, make sure it has an authenticity card or registration card included, as it’s a sign it’s an authentic bag.
Overall, it’s important to be aware when buying bags online and never rush into making a purchase. Educate yourself on the signs of a counterfeit bag and never buy something that seems too good to be true. Take the steps, know the power of research, familiarize yourself with the brand’s product and trust your instinct. Being mindful and always looking out for emerging trends can turn an enormous loss into a beautiful win.