Some fashion brands fade with time; others gain more prominence as years go by. Gucci belongs in the latter. Despite its 100 years in business, the Italian luxury brand remains to enjoy considerable popularity among shoppers of all ages.
In a recent study, Gucci was declared the most sought-after luxury brand online, accounting for about 15.2% of all online searches for luxury items. With such data available, it’s undeniable that almost everyone loves to get their hands on some fine Gucci items, especially bags. If you’re one of them, it’s important to keep your guard up and watch out for possible fraudsters on the loose.
Before you do the unthinkable and spend thousands of dollars just to get a fake Gucci product, it’s best to know in advance how you can distinguish counterfeit from the real deal. We’ve rounded up the top tricks to spot fake Gucci bags for your convenience. Read on.
HOW TO SPOT A FAKE GUCCI BAG?
- Check the tag
Each Gucci bag is known to have a leather tag stitched inside the upper back part of the bag. When you check the tag, you should read the word “GUCCI” embossed on it. The G and Cs should appear round, looking like incomplete Os. Each side of the U should also be different, with the left side thicker than the right one. The words should also be well-stamped, clear, and readable.
Below the logo should read the phrase “Made in Italy” in all lowercase letters (although it’s important to note that old models of Gucci bags, especially from the 1990s, usually display the said phrase in all uppercase).
More recent Gucci bags also now display the trademark sign on top of the word “GUCCI.”
- Review the serial number tag
We’ve discussed earlier how a Gucci tag should look in front, but aside from its face, what’s written behind the tag is even more helpful to authenticate the bag.
Specifically, when you flip the leather tag up, you should see the serial number embossed behind in a typewritten font style. Old Gucci items come with only one row of serial numbers, while newer items display two sets, totalling 10 to 13 digits. The first row indicates the style number, while the second provides the supplier/batch code.
Remember that the back of the tag should only contain numbers. If there are letters imprinted along with the serial number, there’s a high chance you’re holding a fake one.
- Scan the QR Code inside
Many modern Gucci bags, especially those made in 2016 and beyond now have QR codes attached to them, which you can scan using your mobile device to see if the item you’re holding is fake or not. Said QR codes are printed on a black fabric tag sewn inside the bag.
The tag should include the word GUCCI with a 10-digit number below it. On the side of the tag is the QR box, which you can scan using a QR scanning app on your mobile device.
- Be wary of stitching flaws
One striking feature shared by authentic Gucci bags is their impeccable stitching. The luxury brand prides itself on its mastery of traditional Italian artisanal methods. Such artisanship is highly noticeable in their creations. Gucci bags should display stitching patterns that are symmetric, consistent, precise, and without breaks or loose threads.
Even the gaps should be equal, and the stitches should all look the same. The sewing must not also affect the texture of the bag. Authentic Gucci items also often use threads that display the same color as the leather used.
- Feel the hardware
Hardware quality is another factor to consider when authenticating a bag claiming to be Gucci. The Italian luxury brand only makes use of high-quality hardware that counterfeiters cannot simply imitate.
While different Gucci bags normally make use of different hardware designs, they all share the same features of being heavy, smooth, and clean to the touch, as well as having a quality finish. Even the zippers should be made out of pure metal and must be engraved with the word “GUCCI.”
If the hardware of the bag feels light or uneven on the surface, there’s a high chance that the bag you’re holding is fake. Flaky or rusted metals are another tell-tale sign that the item is counterfeited.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Gucci’s 100-year long popularity continues to surge as the brand consistently improves its products. On the downside, this undeniable fame also makes the brand a common target of many counterfeiters.
Be sure to buy only Gucci bags at official Gucci stores and reputable sellers. Many features can help you distinguish fake from real Gucci items from tags, stitching, and hardware quality. Try to follow these tips before you cash out that awe-striking bag from the nearest luxury store.
GOT SOME GUCCI HANDBAGS YOU’RE NOT FOND OF ANYMORE?
If you’re a collector of luxury handbags, you may want to consider selling some of your unused items here at Biltmore Loan and Jewelry. Aside from designer handbags, we also buy other luxury assets, such as authentic jewelry items, rare and historic coins, and more.
Our GIA-certified experts and appraisers can give you honest and precise appraisals for your luxury items. Sell them to us here and enjoy the highest cash-to-dollar price! You may contact us at [email protected] or call 480-991-5626 / 480-705-5626 today.