How to Spot a Fake Handbag Before Investing

Luxury handbags might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think about investing. And yet, the luxury handbag market has seen an incredible rise as an alternative investment option. 

Today, designer pieces from brands like Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton aren’t just symbols of status - they're assets that can appreciate (and quite impressively) over time. 

However, this lucrative market has a significant downside: counterfeits. 

What’s worse, fake handbags are becoming increasingly sophisticated, posing a risk to unsuspecting investors. If you’re considering investing in handbags, spotting a fake is crucial to protect your money and portfolio. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to check for authenticity, ensuring your investment is genuine and profitable.

Why Invest in Luxury Handbags

Luxury handbags have evolved from fashionable accessories to viable investment vehicles. Iconic styles like the Hermès Birkin or Chanel 2.55 have demonstrated remarkable resilience, often outperforming traditional assets like gold in terms of value appreciation.

But what makes these handbags such attractive investments?

• Scarcity and Exclusivity: Limited production and exclusivity drive demand, particularly for sought-after models.

• Timeless Design: Many designer handbags are considered classics, ensuring their relevance over decades.

• Stable Resale Value: High-quality craftsmanship means these bags can retain or even increase in value when kept in excellent condition.

The problem is that this booming market also attracts counterfeiters who mimic luxury designs to deceive buyers. Falling victim to a fake not only results in financial loss but also undermines your confidence as an investor. That’s why recognising counterfeits is a skill every aspiring handbag investor should develop.

How to Tell If the Purse Is Real: Key Indicators of Authenticity (and Common Red Flags)

There are several signs that can tell you the handbag is authentic. Let’s go through them one by one:

Materials and Craftsmanship

Authentic designer handbags are crafted using premium materials and meticulous workmanship. The leather should feel supple but sturdy, with a uniform grain or texture specific to the brand. Stitching is another tell-tale sign; genuine bags feature tight, even stitches, often completed by hand.

Serial Numbers and Authenticity Cards

Most designer handbags come with unique serial numbers and authenticity cards. These identifiers are crucial for verifying the bag’s origins. However, counterfeiters are skilled at replicating them, so a cursory glance isn’t enough.

For instance, Chanel bags include holographic stickers with serial numbers, while Louis Vuitton’s date codes are stamped inside the bag. Understanding these brand-specific features is essential.

Brand-Specific Features

Each luxury brand has distinct hallmarks that counterfeits often fail to replicate accurately.

Familiarise yourself with the nuances of the brand you’re investing in, as these details can help you quickly spot a fake.

Price Too Good to Be True

While everyone loves a bargain, an offer that seems too good to be true usually is. If a designer handbag is priced significantly lower than its market value, proceed with caution. Counterfeiters often lure buyers with irresistible deals.

Spotting Fakes in Online Listings

Okay. But how to tell if the handbag is fake without having it physically in front of you? 

With online marketplaces becoming a go-to source for luxury handbags, ensuring authenticity becomes more challenging. Here’s how to navigate online listings safely:

• Scrutinise the Photos: Look for high-quality images showing all angles of the bag, including close-ups of logos, stitching, and serial numbers. Blurry or limited photos could be an attempt to hide flaws, so don’t trust them. 

• Read the Description Carefully: Genuine listings often include detailed descriptions that specify the bag’s model, year and any signs of wear. Vague descriptions like “100% authentic” without further detail are red flags.

• Research the Seller: Check the seller’s reviews and transaction history. Opt for reliable sellers with a track record of authenticity and transparency.

• Choose Verified Platforms: Platforms that offer authenticity guarantees or partner with professional authenticators provide added security.

By taking these precautions, you reduce the risk of purchasing a counterfeit handbag online. And if you’re still struggling to tell whether the handbag is fake or authentic, it might be a good time to get a professional to look at it…

The Role of Professional Authentication Services

Even seasoned collectors can struggle to spot well-made fakes. That’s where professional authentication services come in. These experts thoroughly examine the bag, verifying its materials, serial numbers, and craftsmanship against brand standards.

Why use authentication services? For starters, they provide peace of mind before making a significant investment. Additionally, some platforms, such as Entrupy, offer digital authentication with AI, giving near-instant results.

While these services come at a cost, they’re a worthwhile investment to ensure your handbag is the real deal. 

Splint Invest: A Simpler Way to Luxury Handbag Investments

Investing in luxury handbags can be both rewarding and profitable, but only if you’re vigilant about authenticity. By understanding the hallmarks of genuine designer bags, scrutinising online listings, and leveraging professional authentication, you can safeguard your investment against counterfeits.

This can be challenging, especially today, with counterfeit handbags becoming more difficult to spot, even for experienced investors. This is where we can help. 

Splint Invest makes investing in alternative assets, like designer handbags, fine wine, or luxury cars, easier and more secure. Explore our platform for access to curated funds and investment opportunities that put authenticity and value first. 

With us, you’ll be able to start investing in luxury handbags with peace of mind the bags you invest in are 100% authentic. Sign up today, protect your portfolio and make every investment count.