Well, the first thing I’d suggest is to take a look at the outside of the bag. The stitching should be symmetrical and the zippers should be branded with the Coach logo. Fake bags might have the logo on the stitching, but it will be crooked or uneven.
The material color should also be vibrant and consistent, the only exceptions being bags with a particular pattern, like a leopard print. Pay attention to the bottom of the bag, as there should be four small metal studs and a leather ‘C’ emblem. Also, look out for a serial number sewn inside the bag that should begin with ‘No’ or ‘serial’ and then the number or letter. Seams should be perfect and the hardware should be high quality.
The dust bag that comes with a genuine Coach bag will have the ‘Double C’ logo and be of good quality. On the other hand, the dust bag of a fake Coach bag might have the logo spelled out instead. Also, the tag attached to the bag should be completely gold in color with the official ‘C’ logo.
Perhaps the most important factor when looking to spot a fake coach bag is price. If it seems too good to be true, then chances are that it is. Authentic Coach bags come with a hefty price-tag, and if you’re getting one for less than it should cost chances are it’s a duplicate.
When buying brand name items like Coach, I always recommend getting it from a coach store or an louis vuitton outlet. That way, you not only make sure you’ve got the authentic product, but you also can benefit from a salesperson’s expertise. In any case, it’s best to do your research and be sure you’re buying the real thing.
The best way to spot a fake bag is to understand the real deal. To that end, research the latest Coach collections to establish the basics of genuineness. This also allows you to know exactly what you’re buying.
Another factor to consider is the seller. Anything you buy as a ‘seconds’ or ‘closeouts’, you should approach with caution. As an example, Coach bags are often available through secondary sellers who may offer great deals. But, if they’re not offering it as part of a retail line then you really can’t be sure what you’re getting.
Additionally, be wary of any online listings of discounted Coach items. If the seller hasn’t provided photos of the products or tells you that the product is in any way ‘unauthentic’, then it probably is.
Finally, for those of us that may have an eye for luxury, you need to be extra savvy when inspecting a used bag. If the bag shows any wear and tear, a thorough inspection is necessary. First, check the bag for the serial number, which should not be removed or altered in any way. Additionally, look for signs such as loose fibers or missing details that are signs of a knock-off.
If you are on the lookout for a genuine Coach bag, it’s important to know the telltale signs of a fake. Be aware of the stitching, hardware, dust bags and tags, and the price. It’s worth doing your research, checking the brand’s website for details, and, if possible, going into a store. When in doubt, don’t buy it!