How to Identify a Fake Gucci Bag

Ellen Pompeo with a presumably real Gucci bag.

You can't identify a fake Gucci unless you know what a real Gucci looks like. Though some counterfeiters work hard to make their products look authentic, there are some things to check for that will be found only on a real bag.

Instructions

1. Authentic Gucci bags have a label saying they were made in Italy, and only a handful of retail outlets are licensed to sell Gucci products. Most of these are high-end stores. If you are offered a Gucci at anything less than a high-end store, it is likely a fake.

2. Look for the authentic double G logo on the zipper, inside the bag, and on the certificate of authenticity.

3. Demand a certificate of authenticity with the Gucci bag, which will be necessary should you decide to sell the bag. There should be four to six numbers representing the serial code on the tag inside the bag. The serial number must match the certificate of authenticity.

4. Check the condition of the leather, which must be in one piece and flawless. Check the liner, which should lie perfectly within the bag with no loose ends. The seams of a real Gucci are hand-stitched and are never frayed nor glued down. Fake Gucci bags will cut any and all of these corners.

Tips & Warnings

• If you feel like you are getting a steal on a Gucci bag, you probably are getting just that - a steal.

• Search for Gucci purses at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman's, or an official Gucci store.

• Be sure you receive a Gucci dust bag with your Gucci purse.

• See related articles above for more information and help with your shopping.

References

• Gucci
• Gucci Web