Since its first design in the 1950s by the iconic Coco Chanel, the classic flap bag from Chanel has become a symbol of luxury. However, it is challenging for an untrained individual to distinguish between genuine Chanel bags and fake bags.
Starting from around the year 2000, Chanel began using hologram stickers with a clear tape containing a hologram security feature. These stickers also feature:
The Art of Spotting Fake Chanel Bags Expert Chanel authenticators examine dozens of tiny details to determine whether a purse is a genuine Chanel bag or a fake. It takes a highly trained eye. But the most important things for you to look for when learning how to tell if a Chanel bag is real are:
The location of the serial sticker can vary depending on the model of the bag; they can be found either on a leather tag or in the bag’s lining.
In the Chanel bag authentication process, the date code plays a crucial part. It serves as the bag's unique identifier , allowing you to determine the year of production.
The first step in our guide on how to tell if a Chanel bag is real is to evaluate its overall construction. Every facet of the bag should reflect exceptional quality and balance. The flap should be balanced with the bag and not extend beyond the sides. The leather strap interwoven in the chain handles should not be so wide or stiff that it appears forced through the links. The diamonds on the quilting should have a pleasing puffiness, neither too flat nor so puffy that they crease or strain. Recognize the unique qualities of the bag style.
However, without significant attention to detail, even a seasoned buyer may fall for the replicas. That said, if fake vs real Chanel bag you carefully analyze the 5 differentiating points mentioned below, you can quickly distinguish between a fake and a genuine bag.
The most prominent hardware on the bag is the iconic Chanel logo, which is two interlocking Cs. It gleams in gold or silver like the bag’s jewelry. The logo is not a flat shape but two three-dimensional letters that actually lock together on an authentic Chanel bag.
Each 'C' in the Chanel logo is of equal width as the space between the 'C's, indicative of Chanel's attention to detail. The edges of the 'C's in the Chanel logo are flat, with rounded edges suggesting a copyright.
A hallmark of an authentic Chanel lock is its smooth and consistent finish is gold or silver, which should not show signs of flaking or discoloration, on the silver or gold plated surface, over time.
Real Chanel bags boast a higher stitch count, typically around 10 stitches per edge of the diamond quilting. While this count may slightly vary depending on the model and size, the concept is that it helps to maintain the bag’s sturdiness and durability.
The authenticity of the Chanel handbag can be ensured by purchasing it from an official Chanel boutique, or from a retailer that has been authorized to sell second-hand Chanel goods or from other luxury brands.
Caution: If Chanel serial number sticker doesn’t contain either CC logo markings, an ‘X’ shape cut into the tape or iridescent speckles, it could very well be fake.
It goes without saying that the stitches should be impeccable without any loose threads, inconsistencies, or irregularities.