As luxury enthusiasts, we understand the thrill of owning an exquisite Louis Vuitton handbag. But LV’s fame has a downside: it’s also the most copied designer label worldwide. Nowadays, with online shopping and second-hand markets, it has become easier to get tricked into buying a fake Louis Vuitton bag.
In a market where counterfeit items are on the increase, a Louis Vuitton authenticity check is paramount to safeguard your investment and ensure you’re getting the quality you deserve. In this blog, we’ll share the top 10 expert tips for conducting a free Louis Vuitton authenticity check yourself and avoiding scams. So, whether you are buying or selling, read on to make confident decisions in luxury fashion.
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10 Must-Know Tips For Louis Vuitton Authenticity Check
Check the Stamping on the Handbag
When examining a Louis Vuitton stamp for authenticity, look for these key details. The “made in” stamp is in lowercase, with the first letter of the country in uppercase. Check for evenly spaced letters, horizontal alignment, and consistent vertical spacing between lines.
The original stamp typically features a short tail, round O’s that seem larger than the L, close proximity of the T’s, and a shorter leg on the L. The lettering is notably thin and precise.
Unpacking the creation and evolution of one of the most iconic pieces of the handbag brand. Read more about Louis Vuitton History And Its Evolution.
While newer bags might lack an exterior “Made In USA” stamp, they’ll have an interior tag stating “Made in USA of imported materials.” On the flip side, fake Louis Vuitton stamps exhibit telltale errors such as oversized or oval O’s, wrong font or stamp width, uneven spacing, and messy embossing.
Assessing Hardware
Since 1991, Louis Vuitton has used its signature golden brass hardware, an important aspect of checking Louis Vuitton’s authenticity. Original hardware feels heavy and solid, not light or cheap.
Look for unpickable locks on bags like Pochette Metis and Saint Germain. S-locks should look polished, with only one bolt moving. Padlocks on Speedy bags are solid brass and have the LV logo on the front.
Zippers are crucial too. All bags from 1991 have the “LV” logo on gold brass zippers. Some bags have colored zippers with YKK branding. They can be shiny or matte, depending on the bag’s style and year.
Look for Stitching Quality
Louis Vuitton has perfect stitching – no unevenness, loose threads, or odd spacing. Both sides of the bag should have the same stitches. On newer bags like Alma, Neverfull, and Speedy, you’ll find 5 stitches across the handle tabs. Louis Vuitton is renowned for using strong linen thread with beeswax, keeping thread thickness and color consistent.
Decoding Date Codes
The best way to examine Louis Vuitton’s authenticity is by checking Date codes.
What is a Louis Vuitton Date Code?
Date codes are like secret markers on Louis Vuitton items. They tell you where and when the item was made.
Where is Louis Vuitton’s Authenticity Code?
Date codes are usually on a leather tab inside the bag. Sometimes, they’re on the lining, or under pockets, like on Speedy and Neverfull bags.
How to Read Date Codes?
They have letters and numbers. Letters show where the bag was made, and numbers show when.
In newer bags (2007-now), the first two numbers are the factory location. Then it’s week/year. Example: SR3179 means made in France, 37th week of 2019.
Before (1990-2006), it’s factory location, then month/year. Example: SP0065 means made in France, 6th month of 2005.
Vintage bags (1980s-1990s) have different codes. They show year and month.
Two letters show where it’s made. It matches the “Made in (country)” stamp under the logo.
Read this insightful guide to get to know the art of spotting fake designer bags. Arm yourself with essential tips and knowledge to ensure authenticity and make informed choices.
Evaluating Material Quality
Louis Vuitton’s iconic canvases like Damier, Monogram, and Multicolour each have unique traits that prove their authenticity. Yet, some things are always true: the design should be centered and symmetrical. In Monogram, the flowers meet at the seam, and in Damier, the squares do the same.
Still questioning “How do I check my Louis Vuitton authentication? “ Well, when it comes to spotting genuine pieces, the following details are valuable.
Monogram Canvas:
Monogram uses one piece of leather wrapping from front to back. So, on bags like Speedy, the LV symbol may be upside-down at the back. The symbols should be light gold-tan, not greenish-tan as in fakes.
Explore the opulence of Louis Vuitton Leather and Canvases with this comprehensive guide. Uncover the intricate details and craftsmanship behind the luxury brand’s extravagant materials.
Damier Canvas:
Damier Ebene and Azur should be matte, not shiny. Yet, Damier Graphite can have a light sheen.
Multicolour Canvas:
Authentic Multicolour logos follow a set pattern. For example, in Black Multicolour: Row 1 has fuchsia, white, and green. Row 2 has dark yellow, dark pink, and dark purple. Row 3 has light blue, dark blue, and chartreuse.
Remember, these details are a great deal of help for a Louis Vuitton Authenticity check.
Check Louis Vuitton Handles
Start by trusting your touch. Real bag handles are crafted from soft, supple leather that ages gracefully, getting darker over time. Keep an eye out for a charming burgundy edge, a lovely contrast that also deepens with age.
Genuine Louis Vuitton handles have smooth and even glazing along the edges. Fake bags tend to have messy and uneven glazing. The color of glazing might vary in fakes, but it should never be a bright red.
Considering Price Point
Take a moment to research the bag’s market value. These bags are iconic, precious, and sought after, so a genuine Louis Vuitton won’t come at a suspiciously low cost. And here’s the deal – quality speaks volumes. Louis Vuitton bags don’t sport $1,000+ price tags without reason. The real deal boasts top-notch materials and craftsmanship, making them timeless treasures in a world of replicas. Any latest handbag by the LV label would not be on sale on any outlet whatsoever.
No Authenticity Certificates
Here’s a straightforward but slightly ironic tip: if your bag flaunts a “Certificate of Authenticity,” it’s actually a red flag for inauthenticity. Your bag may come with a cream-colored card listing the bag style and barcode, but never authenticity cards.
Minimalistic Dust Bags
Louis Vuitton dust bags keep it simple, coming in either envelope or drawstring styles. Expect a soft tan or beige hue with the iconic “LV” or “Louis Vuitton” logo right in the center. These covers are crafted from 100% cotton and carry a label stating their origin from either Spain or India.
Seeking Expert Opinion
If you’re still confused about checking your Louis Vuitton handbag authenticity, consult luxury resale platforms or authentication companies. They employ experts who are trained to spot the smallest nuances and ensure that every element of your bag aligns with luxury standards.
Wrapping it Up
Various details like precise stamping, high-quality hardware, flawless stitching, and deciphering date codes can be your guide when separating real from fake. Remember that when it comes to buying true luxury, every detail matters. We hope these tips for checking Louis Vuitton’s authenticity were useful!
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