How to Spot a Designer Knockoff

How to Spot a Designer Knockoff



Handbags have become a status icon. We all want the season's hottest, however, most of us do not have the finances to splurge on the real deal. Sites like eBay and Craig's List make it possible to get a designer bag without paying a designer price. With so many conterfiet dealer's, how can you tell if you are getting a good deal on a designer bag, or getting an expensive knock-off?









Step
1



The more obvious signs of a knock-off include crooked stitching and cheaper fabrics and materials. Cheaper fabrics will buckle, not provide support for the bag, and typically weigh a lot less. Also, if the label indicates that it is leather, does it smell like leather?




Step
2



Knowing where a handbag is manufactured is also a plus. If you know a designer's label is from Italy and the tag says "Made in China", you know it is not authentic.




Step
3



Pay attention to logos and signatures. Are they backwards? Is there a letter or stamp missing? Are they upside down or uneven? Check it next to the real thing and it's easy to see the difference.




Step
4



Do consider the price of the item. Though it is possible to get a good deal, the seller is not going to practically give you a designer bag. If you know it retails for $1500 and you only pay $200, chances are it's too good to be true.




Step
5



A lot of designer's web sites now provide information for spotting replicas of their products. They also make it easy for you to report counterfeit dealers and give you many options of doing so.







Tips & Warnings









If you are using a website like eBay and you are still unsure of the seller' s product, make sure to review their feedback. Most counterfeit dealers have been busted at least a time or two, so check negative comments. Also, make sure authenticity is guaranteed with a money back return policy.



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