The resale business of luxury accessories has witnessed massive growth in recent times. There is no shortage of customers who believe in purchasing second-hand items rather than spending big on new things. But every item available there may not be authentic. Koyaana Redstar, who owns a Canada-based online boutique, has now shared some valuable suggestions on how shopping enthusiasts can distinguish between original and fake luxury handbags.
Redstar’s company Luxe Du Jour is popular for its wide range of vintage designer bags. During a recent interaction with Business Insider, the entrepreneur spoke about some basic methods to evaluate the authenticity of products from high-end brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Hermes, Chanel and Fendi. She has 20 years of experience in luxury resale.
Redstar developed an interest in the business at the age of 13 when she put her mother’s old Kate Spade handbags on sale on eBay. “After my first sale, I was hooked. The quick turnover and liquidating items so fast were exciting. From that moment, I wanted to see what else I could sell,” she recalled.
After spending many years in the industry, Redstar has now become an expert in identifying original designer handbags. You just need to focus on subtle details as every brand follows certain patterns while designing their products.
“Luxury brands invest time in ensuring their pieces are perfectly aligned. For instance, Chanel’s quilting should be centred on both the front flap and back pocket. If the pattern is off, it’s probably a fake. Gucci and Louis Vuitton ensure their patterns are aligned and centred. If a bag’s design looks off-centre or misaligned, it’s not worth your time,” Redstar explained.
According to her, the quality of hardware should also be considered. “When you open or close the bag, or use the zipper, you should feel and hear the quality. Counterfeit bags often use cheap, hollow metal that feels and sounds inferior,” Redstar advised.
When asked about the difference in raw material, she said, “You can often tell a lot just by smelling the bag. If it’s genuine leather, it should have a distinct scent. However, if it smells too much like leather, it might not be authentic.”
Moreover, Redstar suggested that customers should prioritise the fabric and the finishing details because “if anything feels flimsy or poorly made, that’s a bad sign.” She also clarified that the majority of the luxury brands typically use “flathead screws”, not the “Phillips-head” ones.
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