How to Recognize Replica Handbags

Designer handbags, purses, and accessories are highly coveted by women. Gucci, Chanel, Vuitton, and other trademarks symbolize quality, craftsmanship, and high fashion. Unfortunately, many women can be tricked into buying inferior knock-off handbags if they aren't careful. These steps will teach you how to recognize replica handbags so that you don't get conned by a counterfeiter.

If the price is too good to be true for a designer purse, then you are dealing with a dealer of fakes. A simple shoulder bag can fetch $2500 at a Gucci store, and an authentic Louis Vuitton leather wallet may be $700. But no one sells real designer products on the street for $99.

Research designer logos and examine the bag's logo carefully. For example, on real Gucci bags, the logo is never displayed on the outside, but rather you will need to look carefully at the inner lining to find it. The Gucci logo should be a clear capital G, or two interlocking capital G's. Louis Vuitton trademark images are four-pointed stars and flowers, plus the interlocking L and V. The Chanel trademark is two interlocking C's, both of which are perfect circles. If the bag has fishy looking logos, it's probably a poorly constructed designer knock-off. The logo will also be stamped on the bag's hardware, including zippers, clasps, and snaps. If the metalwork looks shoddy, it's a fake.

Examine the overall craftsmanship of the bag. Designer handbags are designed and stitched to last a very long time, whereas designer replicas may need repairs after months of use. If you see any spots of dried glue, loose threads, or uneven seams, the bag is a counterfeit. Designer bags are meticulously inspected before they are shipped to the boutique. There shouldn't be any obvious flaws.

Designer bags and clutches usually come with certificates of authenticity, and may even include a serial number that matches a number sewn into the bag itself. If the dealer can't offer you the certificate with the bag, be wary. A woman reselling her bag may have legitimately lost the certificate, but a dealer who doesn't even know about such certificates is probably a crook.

The best way to recognize fake Gucci, Chanel, Vuitton, and other designer products is to take a look at real accessories in a designer boutique, or online. When you become familiar with the style of authentic designer bags, you will be able to spot knock-offs more easily.

© Had2Know 2010