A Helpful Guide for Spotting Fake Coach Handbags
Here are some tips to help you determine the authenticity of a Signature Coach Bag:
If you are considering purchasing a handbag from a questionable source, check out the Coach website or even go to a reputable store that carries Coach products.
The simplest way to determine the authenticity is to examine the layout of the signature Cs; they should be perfectly central, however it is common for the mini signature C collections to be off a little on the sides so don’t panic.
The signature for Coach will always be two Cs next to each other in doubles, not in a single row of Cs like the picture below shows.
If the overall figure of the bag doesn’t resemble one that Coach would produce, then chances are it is a replica.
An obvious way to tell that you’re looking at a fake is by looking at the patterned letter. If it isn’t the famous C (if it’s a D or and O), then it’s not authentic.
Dust bags are dark chocolate colour with a red drawstring. On the bottom right hand side “COACH EST. 1941” should be written in white. Coach does not use cheap material to make these. There are lots of replicas floating around the internet so if you see one it’s best to stay away, and assume it’s a fake.
Up until 2002 about 75% of Coach handbags were manufactured in the United States; now, most are assembles in China.
The serial number (written on the interior) should start with “No”, which is the abbreviation for “number”, and then have four numbers after the dash – not three. The writing should be neat on the authenticity tag, not stamped on haphazardly. Also, the paragraph above the serial number should be all in capital letters, in English.
Make sure the authenticity number matches up with the style of the bag that you’re interested in purchasing. If you are going to buy from an unauthorized dealer, call Coach and their representatives will be more than willing to verify if the codes are right.
Don’t forget that there needs to be a serial number.
Coach commonly use logo tags that are attached by a beaded chain. This beaded chain usually matches the trim of the bag. The word “COACH” should be raised, and not imprinted. Some styles have metal tabs. You should do your research to make sure that the tags goes with the bag you’re getting. It’s common for counterfeiters to mass produce these metal tags, as it’s the cheaper and more profitable way. None of the tags are ever made out of plastic.
Some other minor flaws to look for:
The seams of the bag and the interior authenticity tag should be neatly stitched on, rather than glued on. Coach take pride in the craftsmanship that is put into every piece. If the stitching is of poor quality then it is a replica.
The bag should look sturdy, and shouldn’t be slouching to one side, or be lopsided. These things are caused either by bad quality stitching or material. Coach use leather or suede trim, not pleather or shiny plastic.
It is easier to tell the difference between leather and plastic in person, instead of over the internet. The smell of the material should give it away, but there are some handbags out there that are made of plastic and then covered in leather scent (with smells more like a new car than a purse). If you are looking at a picture though, the material might look too shiny or poor quality.
There is such a thing as a good deal, however if someone claims to be able to sell a handbag that isn’t even in stores, you should definitely pass. If you are purchasing from an unauthorized dealer, or from an auction website like eBay, the most obvious deal you could get would be on a bag from a past season.
If you are unsure if the dealer that you are looking in is authorized or not, then contact Coach on their 800 number and they can tell you if they are certified. Read into the dealers website, and look into the “about us” and “customer service” section; if anything seems suspicious then stay clear.
Con artists try to hide the fact that they are selling fakes. When they describe their products, they will state they are “designer inspired” or “grade A replicas”. They put these words in there to protect themselves from any lawsuits.
How do I report counterfeit Coach Merchandise?
