How to Determine the Value of a Fendi Shoulder Bag

The Fendi label is one of the most coveted in women's designer handbags. Because of their quality and high cost (some bags retail for thousands of dollars), they are a highly sought after as a status symbol. They are also one of the most imitated bags in the fake-designer-handbag industry. It isn't always easy to tell if you have a real Fendi, let alone how much it is worth. But with diligent research there is no reason why you cannot attain a reliable value for your Fendi bag.

Instructions

1. Determine if your Fendi bag is real. If you did not purchase the bag from an official retailer it may be a fake. Examine the hardware–buckles, snaps and zipper pulls–for the Fendi logo. The Fendi logo consists of two capital F's, with the left F facing right and the right F rotated 180 degrees so it's upside-down and facing left. The Fendi lining is always brown; some fakes use olive or tan lining. Fendi bags use a fabric called zuccajaquard, which is a mix of canvas and silk. It is more durable and less flexible than the material used in fake bags.

2. Price similar style Fendi bags. Fendi bags are sold in upscale department stores such as Neiman Marcus and Barneys and at online sites such as bluefly.com. For current styles and Fendi classics, look at the official Fendi site, Fendi.com. Research the price of Fendi bags that are of similar size or made of similar materials to your own. Avoid sites like eBay, where sellers may try to pass off fakes as the real thing.

3. Take your Fendi to the handbag department of an official Fendi retailer and have a specialist estimate its worth. Salespeople in the handbag department of upscale stores are often trained to have expert knowledge of their products. Some retailers, such as Bloomingdale's, appoint associates as specialists of specific brands. Or, if you have access to a Fendi boutique, take your bag to an associate or manager for an appraisal.

References

• NYC 24: How to Tell a Fake from a Phony

Resources

• What's Ur Bag: How Do You Spot A Counterfeit Fendi Handbag?