How to Spot a Knockoff Handbag

Dior bag

Women love fashion, and especially luxury handbags. Who wouldn't want to score a terrific deal on a Gucci or Chanel bag? It is important, however, to avoid buying knockoff handbags. Not only is it just plain illegal, but there are children working in horrible conditions overseas just to make these imposter bags. This article will tell you how to spot-and avoid-a knockoff handbag.

Instructions

How to Spot a Knockoff Handbag

1. Consider the source. Buying almost anything online can be risky, and especially anything that is a name-brand item. Avoid buying from secondary sources, and only buy from the label's own store, website, or authorized dealer site. Also avoid buying on the street. If you see someone at a swap meet or street fair selling Louis Vuitton bags, you can almost be sure they are fake.

2. Look for the original tags and packaging. Most counterfeit bags do not come with packaging, and if they do have tags, they are cheap and of poor quality.

3. Don't depend on the price! Some knockoffs are sold for hundreds of dollars. After all, who would suspect that an expensive item would be a fake? Don't depend on the receipt either. Many savvy con artists create department store receipts on their computers and pass them off as the real thing.

4. Get to know the real thing. Visit a department store and touch the real Gucci bags. Genuine designer bags feel substantial, have very high quality stitching, and luxurious linings.

5. Avoid great deals! You know the rule: If it's too good to be true...don't go there!

Tips & Warnings

• Your best bet at scoring a deal on the genuine item is to visit the designer's outlet store.

Resources

• The real thing: Designer handbags