How To Spot A Fake Designer Handbag

It looks pretty good, it’ll be deadly with, like, everything in your wardrobe, and you can nab it at a fraction of the price you’d pay for it in the designer shop. Yep, that snazzy bag could almost pass for the real deal, but if it seems too good to be true, it usually is. So, before you splurge all your pretty pennies on it, here’s how to spot a fake designer bag a mile off.

Do your research

First up, suss out whether or not the shop is reputable. Has it been around for a while and got a good name? Are the staff knowledgeable about the product? Check the internet for reviews and ask your mates, too. If it seems in any way sketchy, shop elsewhere.

Know what you’re shopping for

A surefire way to spot a dud? Visit the official designer to check out the real thing and take pics (if the shop allows it; some don’t). Know the value of the bag and pay close attention to details such as clasps, zippers and embellishments.

If the ‘knock-off’ version doesn’t meet the same standards, it’s probably a fake. Get familiar with the brand’s official logo too. Fakes will often have a slight variation of it. Study it with a close eye and inspect it for any little differences that give the game away.

Double check the quality

Leather should smell like leather, so if there’s a hint of glue or chemicals – it’s likely a dud. If it’s canvas or suede, it should be durable and sturdy. Other dead giveaways? Pay close attention to stitching and seams. A designer bag would never have frays or sloppy, loose or uneven stitches.

In short, if in doubt, shop directly from the brand. If it seems like too good a deal to be true, it is – most high-end designer brands don’t ever discount their leather goods (think Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Prada).

If it’s a bargain you’re after, ditch the designer dreams and go for a decent high-street equivalent instead. Dead set on that LV? Better start saving.

Pic credit: The Blonde Salad (and her very real Louis Vuitton)

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