How to Identify a Fake Luxury Handbag: Expert Insights from Koyaana Redstar
Koyaana Redstar, the head of luxury buying at Luxe Du Jour—an online boutique specializing in vintage designer handbags—has shared her expert tips for discerning genuine luxury bags. With two decades of experience in the resale industry, Redstar has developed a keen eye for spotting authentic items from renowned brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Hermes, and Fendi.
Redstar’s Journey into Luxury Resale
Redstar’s foray into luxury resale began at the tender age of 13 when she sold her mother’s old Kate Spade handbags on eBay. This early experience sparked her passion for the business. “After my first sale, I was hooked,” she recalled. “The quick turnover and liquidating items so fast were exciting. From that moment, I wanted to see what else I could sell.”
Expert Tips for Spotting Authentic Luxury Handbags
Redstar has honed her ability to identify genuine designer bags through careful observation of various details. Below are some essential tips she recommends:
1. Check for Symmetry
- Luxury brands prioritize alignment: Redstar notes that luxury brands invest significant time ensuring their pieces are perfectly aligned. For instance, Chanel’s quilting should be centered on both the front flap and back pocket. If the pattern is off, it’s likely a fake.
- Other brands have similar standards: Gucci and Louis Vuitton also maintain strict alignment in their designs. Bags with off-center or misaligned patterns should be approached with caution.
2. Examine the Quality of Hardware
- Weight and sound matter: Authentic luxury bags have substantial hardware. When you open or close the bag, or use the zipper, the quality should be apparent through both weight and sound. Counterfeit bags often feature lightweight, hollow metal that feels inferior.
3. Assess the Smell of the Leather
- Distinctive scents indicate authenticity: Redstar explains that the scent of leather can provide clues about authenticity. Genuine leather has a unique smell; however, if it smells overly like leather, it might be a fake. For instance, Hermes Birkins have a subtle, almost perfumed aroma due to their leather treatment, while vintage Louis Vuitton bags may have a scent reminiscent of Crayola crayons as they age.
4. Inspect the Finishing Details
- Overall quality is key: Redstar emphasizes the importance of examining a bag’s finishing details. Assess the fabric’s texture—does it feel cheap or luxurious? Check if the seams are neat and if the engravings on the hardware are executed with precision. Any flimsy or poorly made aspects are significant warning signs.
5. Identify the Type of Screws Used
- Flathead screws indicate authenticity: Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermes typically use flathead screws in their hardware. The presence of Phillips-head screws is a glaring red flag and should be noted immediately.
Conclusion
With Koyaana Redstar’s insights, buyers can feel more confident in their ability to identify authentic luxury handbags. By paying attention to details such as symmetry, hardware quality, leather scent, finishing details, and screw types, individuals can protect themselves from counterfeit products in the luxury handbag market.
