How to Buy Prada Handbags

For many decades, Prada has been universally revered as a manufacturer of high-end fashion and accessories. For women, the Prada handbag is the holy grail of accessories and a stylish status symbol that can be worn around the shoulder. Because they are a constant inspiration for clever imitations, you must be exceptionally savvy when buying Prada handbags.

Instructions

Locating and Purchasing Prada Handbags

1. Search for Prada handbags at high-end department stores and/or their respective websites. Safe bets are stores like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Barneys. As certified retailers of the brand, customers can rest assured that the product they receive will be the real deal.

2. Visit one of America's Prada boutiques. They are located in major cities such as New York, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas and Boston. This method requires travel, but you must assume that those shopping for authentic Prada have the disposable income associated with high-end labels.

3. Go discount Prada shopping. Auction sites and overstock specialty stores sometimes feature high-end labels. While the prices are competitive, the buyer should do extensive research to ensure that the items are authentic and not clever knock-offs.

Verifying Authenticity

1. Look for the two authenticity cards that accompany every Prada handbag. The first card will be plastic with a magnetic strip on the back and the famed logo on the front. It should feature model number, style name and color. The second card is made of black paper and carries both a serial number and a bar code. Both cards will be enclosed in a logo-embossed envelope.

2. Check inside the dust bag for a small label. The label should read "PRADA" and have "COTTON MADE IN ITALY" underneath. The dust bag should also have the Prada logo printed on the front.

3. Examine the handbag's lining. The feel of the lining should be soft and luxurious. Imitation bag linings often feel stiff. Look for rows of the brand name in an alternating right side up, upside down pattern.

4. Evaluate the bag for overall durability and craftsmanship. Look for defects in stitching as well as zippers or clasping devices. A genuine designer handbag will typically look and feel like a genuine designer handbag.

Tips & Warnings

• Imitation manufacturers continue to find innovative ways to dupe potential buyers. Do a thorough authenticity check before agreeing to purchase a Prada handbag from an unofficial vendor. Always remember that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.