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How can I tell if the Prada handbag I purchased in New York is real?
Author: Haddie Treong
Website: http://www.handbagstips.com
Added: Mon, Jul 28, 2008 11:11:28
Category: Handbag Questions
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The most obvious answer to this is that if you purchase your Prada bag from a street vendor in New York City you have a better chance than not that it is fake. Furthermore, it is very unlikely for a genuine Prada handbag to be sold for $50 or less. As much as a temptation as this may be, unless you want to be taken, think again. You are most likely being sold a replica Prada handbag.
For you to gauge the authenticity of a Prada handbag, purchase it from an authorized dealer or a reputable store. The store should be able to provide proof for you with a certificate of authenticity. When purchasing a Prada bag online from an online auction or website, be sure it includes this certificate as well as a serial number you can look up directly from Prada.
Most authentic totes have either a control card or control number on the inside as well as a certificate of authenticity. The number on the tag or control card should match the number printed on the lining. If you can, it's a good idea to register your Prada bag.
Check the weight and feel of the bag. You can often tell the difference between a real designer and a replica bag by the softness of the leather or suede. Faux bags tend to be a bit rougher and feels more like plastic. Also, leather and suede tend to be heavier than their replicas, so check out the weight.
As they say, the devil is in the details, so don't be afraid to take time to examine the bag. Macy's hand expert Loreen Chapman offers some general tips for watching for quality and genuine handbags. According to Ms. Chapman, you can often tell an authentic bag from a fake by simply looking at the lining and stitching. She says fakes may not be made well. For example, they may have threads hanging from them or are frayed in the corners. Genuine bags are often lined with fabric with the brand's specific logo or monogram on it. For instance, the lining on a genuine Prada handbag should have the words "Prada" going horizontally all across the lining. Ms. Chapman goes on to say that the fabric and the lining should be able to withstand more wear and tear if the purse is real. On a reproduction, the stitching may not be completely straight, or the color may be a little off, both inside and out.
Last, but not least, check out the hardware of the handbag. Hardware is important. On knock-offs, the hardware tends to be over-sized, i.e. the trademark name plate may be large. Many authentic designs also have details such as a logo or letter on the zippers and clasps. Look at the Prada name on the emblem. If the right leg on the "R" in "Prada" is straight, it is a fake. It should curve in. The background of the Prada name plate on a genuine Prada handbag is usually the same color as the bag. The metal on the bag, even the buttons, should be engraved with the word "Prada." Prada's website will show those details. It would be a good idea to check those details on their website before making your purchase.
keywords: Handbags | Purses | Bags | Fashion | Prada Handbag | Replica Handbag About the Author:
Haddie Treong answers frequently asked handbag questions at PrettyGreatAnswers.com.
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