Expert Guide: Louis Vuitton Fake vs Real Bag

When it comes to designer bags, Louis Vuitton is usually the first name that pops into our heads, right? For many luxury bag collectors, LV is where it all begins. And while online reselling of pre-loved LV bags is super convenient for us, it’s also pretty helpful for counterfeiters trying to rip us off. Making a profit off of Louis Vuitton’s fame is easy money for them.

The good news? We can outsmart these scammers. All we need is a little bit of a detective’s eye. In this blog, we’re going to discuss all the teeny tiny details to help you differentiate between a real vs fake Louis Vuitton Bag. 

Related Guide: 10 Things to Know for louis vuitton authenticity check

Real Vs Fake Louis Vuitton Monogram Pattern

Let’s start with what most of us absolutely love about LV- the iconic LV monogram. Did you know this pattern was actually created in the 1920s to fight off scammers? (The irony, right?) but it hides very helpful telltale signs to figure out between a fake vs real lv bag. They gave it a little upgrade in 1959 and since then it has been untouched. 

• The pattern consists of LV lettering, a fleur de lis, a circle, and a flower before the LV pops up again. The L hangs low while the V slightly overlaps above it.

• Symmetry is key. If one side has half of a fleur de lis, the opposite corner better have the other half like a perfect mirror reflection. 

• Monogram uses one piece of leather wrapping from front to back, so there’s no seam anywhere. This means that on bags like Speedy and Keepall, the LV symbol may be upside-down at the back. However, for a real vs fake LV neverfull analysis, it's different. In Neverfull, the monogram stays the right way up as there’s a seam at the base.

• In newer bags, the LV lettering is never cut off in the pattern! There is no tilting, smudges, blurred edges, or greenish tints. 

Real Vs Fake Engraved LV Monogram?

When you’re checking out the engraved monogram pattern, focus on the quality of the engravings which can be a big giveaway. In an authentic bag, they’re carved deeper into the leather, giving them a nice prominent look. The fake ones are generally flatter.

Another thing to notice is the leather texture. If you take a close look, real Louis Vuitton leather has a distinct tumbling effect that’s hard to miss. Fakes tend to have a smoother, less textured surface.

Read this Guide: Chanel Authenticity Card: Real vs Fake – Learn the Secrets

Real Vs Fake LV Damier Pattern

Now let’s highlight Louis Vuitton’s stunning Damier Ebene pattern! With counterfeiters getting pretty good at fooling us, it’s crucial to know the differences between real vs fake louis vuitton “checkered” bags.

• The logo “Louis Vuitton Paris” is in a square on the SAME line on one side of the bag as the other. Make sure you match that. 

• The authentic LV logo has quite bold characters with a slightly yellowish hue. The fake ones tend to have orange-y tint and thin lettering.

• Feel that canvas texture. Real LV bags have a rich, grainy, and defined canvas while fakes often feel smoother and lack the detail. 
  
  

  THE STITCHING 

The stitching can be a huge help in figuring out a real Louis Vuitton bag from a fake. Here are a few things to consider: 

• Genuine LV stitching is done by hand. The stitches are slightly angled but there’s no uneven spacing or inconsistency. 

• The thread is made up of sturdy linen that is dyed yellow and specially treated with beeswax. The thickness and color are uniform throughout the bag.

• On newer bags like Alma, Neverfull, and Speedy, count the stitches. You'll find 5 stitches across the handle tabs.
  
  

  LETTERING AND LOGO TABS

Spotting the inconsistencies of the lettering and font in real vs fake lv bags is very crucial. The LV logo label is featured in many popular pochettes and handbags. Here are a few details to watch out for: 

• ALL LV bags have the words ‘LOUIS VUITTON PARIS’ written in caps along with the circle R trademark logo and the country it was manufactured in: ‘made in ____’). The "made in" stamp is in lowercase, with the first letter of the country in uppercase. Check for evenly spaced letters, horizontal alignment, and consistent vertical spacing between lines. Look for incorrect fonts, particularly in the ® symbol.

• The original stamp typically features a shorter leg on the L, round O's that seem larger than the L, and close proximity of the T's. The lettering is notably thin and precise.

• Authentic Louis Vuitton logo tags commonly display a double-stitched top, while replicas frequently overlook this fine detail

• On the flip side, fake Louis Vuitton stamps exhibit telltale errors such as thin or oval O's, wrong font or stamp width, uneven spacing, and messy embossing.

Relevant Blog:  Louis Vuitton History And It’s Evolution

The Vachetta Leather Handles

On all authentic LV bags, the Vachetta leather handles start off as a soft, pale beige. LV uses natural cowhide that develops a beautiful honey color as it ages. This happens because the leather oxidizes over time, influenced by things like the oils from your hands and environmental factors. Let’s say you’re trying to differentiate between a real vs fake LV speedy, don’t be surprised if the handles are darker. This is just the natural patina at work. 

Also keep an eye on the contrasting red trim. It starts as a deep burgundy but darkens with age. On a replica, you might see a bright lipstick red trim that doesn’t fade, which is a dead giveaway.

THE HARDWARE 

Spotting a Real vs Fake Louis Vuitton: Key hardware details to check:

• In a real vs fake LV purse, the hardware is just as important as the leather. The types of hardware commonly seen are zipper tabs, rivets, padlocks, buckles, rings and clasps. Here’s what you need to know. 
• Feel the hardware. Since 1991, Louis Vuitton has been using its golden brass hardware with its iconic LV logo (embossed) or “LOUIS VUITTON” spell-out (debossed). There should be a nice weight to it.The brass may oxidize over time so there’s no need to panic if you notice it turning bronze or even developing a green-ish tinge.

• In fakes, the hardware is just a cheap metal or plastic painted bright yellow gold and feels super lightweight. 

• You will typically see hardware in brass, golden brass, or silvery metal, although some pieces may have a matte finish, depending on the style. 

• Look for unpickable locks on bags like Pochette Metis and Saint Germain. S-locks should look polished, with only one bolt moving. Padlocks on Speedy bags are solid brass and have the LV logo on the front. 

• To differentiate between a real vs fake LV zipper, counter check the branding. 

Inside Of A Real Louis Vuitton Bag

While the lining in the inside of a real LV bag varies by collection, here’s what you typically find:

• Monogram bags are usually lined with a brown cotton textile, while Damier Ebene bags feature a striking red microfiber lining. 

• Epi leather and Mahina handbags have a suede-like microfiber lining that often matches the bag’s exterior but can also come in a contrasting color. 

Interpreting Louis Vuitton Date Codes

Date codes are like secret markers to differentiate between real vs fake Louis Vuitton bags. They tell you where and when the bag was made. They are usually located on a leather tab inside. Sometimes, they're on the lining, or under pockets, like on Speedy and Neverfull bags. 

How to Read Date Codes?

Date codes have letters and numbers. Letters show WHERE the bag was made (the country), and numbers show WHEN (production week/month/year).

In newer bags (2007-now), the first and third numbers are the factory location. And the second and fourth are week and year. Example: SR3179 means made in France, 37th week of 2019. Clever, right?

From 1990-2006, the first and third numbers are the factory location. And the second and fourth are month/year. Example: SP0065 means made in France, 6th month of 2005.

Vintage bags (1980s-1990s) have different codes indicating year and month.

While LV bags never flaunt authenticity cards, they do always come with minimalistic and soft dust bags. The dust bags have a lovely tan color, featuring the LV logo or just LOUIS VUITTON lettering in center. No extra texts. They come in either an envelope or drawstring style. Theyr’e made using 100% cotton, with neat seams. 

TheTakeaway Is:

Remember that when it comes to buying true luxury, every detail matters. Various factors like precise stamping, high-quality hardware, flawless stitching, and deciphering date codes can be super helpful when separating a real LV bag from a fake. If you’re still confused, consult our experts at DALLAS DESIGNER HANDBAGS who are trained to spot the smallest nuances and ensure that every element of your bag aligns with luxury standards.  

At DDH, we offer a platform for you to check out 100% authenticated, pre-owned luxury bags sold at affordable, second-hand prices. Check it out today!