15 Best Tips: How To Spot A Fake Louis Vuitton Bag vs Real
It’s no secret that Louis Vuitton is one of the most popular luxury brands in the world. And with that popularity comes a lot of fake Louis Vuitton handbags. It’s important to know how to spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag.
In fact, it’s estimated that there are more fake bags in circulation than there are authentic Louis Vuitton bags!
Louis Vuitton History
Louis Vuitton was founded in 1854 by Louis Vuitton Malletier. At the time, the company only sold trunks and luggage.
But for a long time, it has expanded its product offerings to include everything from handbags and purses to clothing and shoes.
Today, Louis Vuitton Paris is one of the most recognizable sellers of luxury items in the world. And its products are highly sought after by fashionistas and celebrities alike.
However, all of this popularity has also made each Louis Vuitton item a prime target for counterfeit items. In fact, it’s estimated that there are more fake LV bags in circulation than there are real ones!
When it comes to a fake LV bag, there are a lot of them out there. And unfortunately, many of them are very good quality knockoffs.
Tips To Spot A Fake Louis Vuitton Bag
So how can you tell if a Louis Vuitton bag is real or fake? There are some basic rules and important aspects of Louis Vuitton bags that you can’t miss.
Without further ado, here are 15 telltale signs to help you spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag:
1. Check the materials.
The first thing important aspect to consider is the fact that authentic LV bags are made from high-quality materials like full-grain leather and monogram canvas.
LV bags typically use Vachetta leather and natural cowhide leather. If the material doesn’t feel high-quality, it’s probably not a luxury bag.
By contrast, fake Louis Vuitton bags are often made from cheap materials like PVC or pleather.
2. Look at the stitching.
One of the most important things to look at when trying to spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag is the number of stitches.
An authentic bag has precise and even stitching, while a fake Louis Vuitton purse often has sloppy or loose threads.
3. Check the hardware.
Another way to tell if a Louis Vuitton bag is fake is to check the Louis Vuitton hardware.
A real LV bag has high-quality hardware that is often made from brass or gold-plated metal.
A fake handbag usually has poor quality hardware that is made from cheap metals like aluminum. Louis Vuitton’s hardware typically uses high quality materials such as real leather.
4. Inspect the logo.
The LV logo is one of the most recognizable logos in the world, so it’s no surprise that fake Louis Vuitton bags often have poorly-made replicas of the logo.
When inspecting for authentic Louis Vuitton logos, pay close attention to the details like the font and the symbol.
5. Examine the monogram.
Another way to tell if a Louis Vuitton bag is real or fake is to examine the monogram pattern.
LV monogram bags should be perfectly symmetrical, while the monogram on a fake Louis Vuitton bag is often asymmetrical.
The monogram on an authentic Louis Vuitton handbag is also made from high-quality materials like leather or canvas.
By contrast, the monogram on a fake Louis Vuitton bag is often made from cheap materials like PVC or pleather.
6. Check the date code.
One of the more common ways to verify the authenticity of an LV bag is by the date code.
Instead of having a serial number or model number, most Louis Vuitton bags have a date code heat stamp somewhere on them.
Considering LV bags don’t come with authenticity cards, this is a great way to verify if it’s a real bag. Louis Vuitton date codes can be used to tell the factory location and when the bag was made.
Fake Louis Vuitton bags often have fake date codes that don’t match up with the real ones.
The codes are usually two capital letters followed by four numbers.
The first two letters, or letter code, represent the country where the bag was made, while the fourth numbers represent the week of the year that the bag was made.
For example, if the two capital letters are the letter f and letter l, the bag was made in the United States.
You can find the date code on the inside of the bag on a leather tag or leather tab that looks like a short tail.
Something to keep in mind is that vintage bags made prior to the early 1980’s may not have date codes. Such bags may require a special order.
Early 1980s Louis Vuitton bags introduced the date codes with third numbers and fourth numbers with a similar combination of letters to verify the location.
New bags as of 2021 also discontinued the date code, but they will have heat stamps and RFID chips.
7. Look at the zippers.
Real Louis Vuitton bags have high-quality zippers that have a smooth and even zipper pull.
Fake Louis Vuitton bags often have lower-quality zippers that get stuck or don’t zip evenly. If you’re unsure, try zipping and unzipping the bag a few times.
If it’s difficult to do, it’s probably a fake.
8. Inspect the lining.
The lining of a genuine Louis Vuitton bag is usually made from a high-quality material like silk or cotton.
The lining of a fake Louis Vuitton bag is often made from a cheaper material like polyester.
When inspecting the lining, pay close attention to the stitching and the fabric. This is an easy way to tell if it’s the real deal or not.
9. Feel the handles.
The handles on authentic products are often made from leather pieces or monogram canvas.
The handles on a fake Louis Vuitton bag are often made from cheap materials like PVC or pleather.
10. Check the hardware on the handles.
Just like with the hardware on the rest of the bag, the hardware on the handles of designer bags is often made from brass or gold-plated metal.
If the bag uses cheap materials like aluminum, that is a big red flag.
11. Examine the seams.
Real Louis Vuitton bags have a side seam that is straight and even. Fake Louis Vuitton bags often have seams that are crooked or uneven.
When examining the seams, pay close attention to the stitching. If it doesn’t look quite right, it’s probably a fake.
12. Inspect the bottom of the bag.
The bottom of a real Louis Vuitton bag is often made from full-grain leather or monogram canvas. The bottom of a fake Louis Vuitton bag is often made from cheap materials like PVC or pleather.
You can often tell the difference by simply feeling the bottom of the bag.
There should be a continuous piece of leather. If it feels cheap or flimsy, it’s probably not the real thing.
13. Check the size and shape of the bag.
Real Louis Vuitton bags often have a specific size and shape. Fake Louis Vuitton bags are often the wrong size or shape.
You can often find the right size and shape by looking at online photos of a real bag.
14. Compare the price.
Real Louis Vuitton bags are often expensive, while fake Louis Vuitton bags are often very cheap. If you find a Louis Vuitton bag that is being sold for a very low price, it’s likely a fake.
Leather goods and designer bags are expensive.
The prices of a real Louis Vuitton bag can vary depending on the style and where you buy it, but you should always be suspicious of a Louis Vuitton bag that is being sold for a fraction of the price.
15. Buy from a reputable source.
The best way to avoid buying a fake Louis Vuitton bag is to only buy from reputable sources. Reputable sources include authorized Louis Vuitton retailers and boutiques.
You can also buy pre-owned Louis Vuitton bags from reputable online retailers. This is a dead giveaway of whether or not the products are original bags for both newer bags and vintage bags.
What Are Louis Vuitton Bags Made Of?
Louis Vuitton bags are often made from full-grain leather or monogram canvas. The hardware on Louis Vuitton bags is often made from brass or gold-plated metal.
The lining of Louis Vuitton bags is usually made from a high-quality material like silk or cotton. This is true for both a new bag and older bags.
How Much Do Louis Vuitton Bags Cost
Louis Vuitton bags often cost several hundred to several thousand dollars. The exact price depends on the style of the bag and the materials used.
The price can range from $500 for a small monogram bag to over $4,000 for a large monogram trunk.
You can buy Louis Vuitton bags from authorized Louis Vuitton retailers and boutiques. You can also buy pre-owned Louis Vuitton bags from reputable online retailers.
How To Care For Louis Vuitton Bags
You can care for your Louis Vuitton bag by regularly cleaning it with a soft cloth. You should also avoid getting the bag wet and storing it in a cool, dry place.
If the bag does get wet, you should blot it dry with a soft cloth and allow it to air dry. You should also avoid exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause the bag to fade.
When you’re not using your Louis Vuitton bag, you should store it in a dust bag. You can purchase a dust cover from Louis Vuitton or other retailers.
How To Clean An Louis Vuitton Bag
You can clean a Louis Vuitton bag with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid getting the leather or canvas wet. You can buy special cleaners made specifically for cleaning Louis Vuitton bags.
Buying Louis Vuitton bags from authorized retailers and boutiques is another option. You can also buy pre-owned Louis Vuitton bags from reputable online retailers.
Steps to cleaning your Louis Vuitton bag:
1. Gather your materials. You will need a soft cloth, mild soap, and a Louis Vuitton cleaner if you have one.
2. Dust off your bag with a soft cloth. This will remove any dirt or debris that has accumulated on the surface of the bag.
3. Apply a small amount of mild soap to the soft cloth.
4. Rub the soapy cloth over the surface of the bag. Be sure to avoid getting the leather or canvas wet.
5. Rinse the soap off with a damp cloth.
6. Dry your bag with a clean, dry cloth.
7. Apply a Louis Vuitton cleaner to a soft cloth and rub it over the surface of the bag. This will help to protect the leather and canvas.
8. Allow your bag to air dry.
Precautions To Take When Buying A Louis Vuitton Bag
When buying a Louis Vuitton bag, be sure to buy from a reputable source. Reputable sources include authorized Louis Vuitton stores and retailers.
You can also buy pre-owned Louis Vuitton bags from reputable online retailers. Use common sense when you look into your sources.
For example, if they hesitate to answer questions about the product or give vague answers, they’re probably a counterfeiter.
When buying a Louis Vuitton bag, be sure to inspect the bag carefully. Important factors include signs of wear and tear and the hardware.
If you are buying a used Louis Vuitton bag, be sure to ask the seller about the bag’s history. Different lines of bags can look similar to a Louis Vuitton, but the type of bag you’re looking for will have verifiable history.
If you think you’ve bought a fake Louis Vuitton bag, the best thing to do is to contact the seller and ask for a refund.
If you bought the bag from a reputable source, they should be able to offer you a refund or exchange.
The Benefits Of Owning A Louis Vuitton Bag
Some people believe that owning a Louis Vuitton bag can improve your social status. Louis Vuitton bags are also thought to be very stylish and luxurious.
Additionally, Louis Vuitton bags are often made from high-quality materials that can last for many years.
Many people also choose to buy Louis Vuitton bags because of the company’s history. Louis Vuitton was founded in 1854, and the company has been making high-quality products for over 150 years.
Furthermore, Louis Vuitton is a well-known brand that is associated with quality and luxury. When you own a Louis Vuitton bag, you can be sure that you’re carrying a piece of history with you.
The Disadvantages Of Owning A Louis Vuitton Bag
Owning a Louis Vuitton bag can be expensive. Additionally, some people believe that Louis Vuitton bags are a symbol of wealth and status.
As a result, some people may think you are arrogant or pretentious if you own a Louis Vuitton bag.
The Most Popular Louis Vuitton Bags
Some of the most popular Louis Vuitton bags include the Speedy bag, the Neverfull bag, and the Alma bag.
The Speedy bag is a small, rectangular-shaped bag that is perfect for everyday use. It features a top handle and a shoulder strap.
The Neverfull bag is a large tote bag that is perfect for travel or for carrying everyday items. It features two handles and a removable shoulder strap.
The Alma bag is a rectangular-shaped bag that is perfect for special occasions. It features two handles and a removable shoulder strap.
Other Louis V Products
In addition to bags, Louis Vuitton also sells a variety of other products, including luggage, clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories.
Louis Vuitton is known for its high-quality products and luxury designs.
What Are The Best Alternatives To Louis Vuitton Bags?
There are many high-quality alternatives to Louis Vuitton bags. Some of the best alternatives include bags from designers like Hermes, Chanel, and Gucci.
Additionally, there are many high-quality replica bags available that look similar to Louis Vuitton bags.
To shop other luxury brand bags, check out The Top 40 Best Luxury Designer Handbag Brands!
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering buying a Louis Vuitton bag, it’s important to do your research to ensure you’re getting a genuine bag.
So how can spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag? There are a few things you can look for to spot a fake Louis Vuitton bag, including the materials used, the seams, the hardware, and the size and shape. Y
ou should also compare prices and buy from a reputable source.
Finally, remember that you can also buy other Louis Vuitton products, like luggage, clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories.
We hope these tips help you to avoid buying a fake bag!
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