Thrifting for bags is one of my favorite hobbies, but spotting the difference between authentic and fake takes practice. I’m not a professional authenticator, just sharing what I’ve learned from my own Goodwill hunts. Use these tips as a guide, but always double-check if you’re considering reselling or investing.
Stitching: Real bags have clean, even, tight stitching. Sloppy or crooked stitches are almost always a fake giveaway.
Hardware: Authentic bags use heavy, quality hardware — it should feel solid, not flimsy. Zippers glide smoothly without catching.
Logos & Fonts: Fonts should be crisp, consistent, and centered. Misaligned or “off” logos = instant suspicion.
Material: Genuine leather and coated canvas feel sturdy and luxe, never plasticky or thin.
Serial Numbers / Tags: Many designers use codes or creed patches inside. Missing, sloppy, or repeated numbers are warning signs.
Price Check: If it seems way too good to be true, it probably is.
Look for the creed patch inside — authentic Coach bags typically include a serial number here.
Pro tip: The first number “0” in a serial is usually about a quarter of the size of the letter “N.” It’s a subtle but important detail.
Hardware: Every piece of metal (buckles, zipper pulls, D-rings) should be engraved with “Coach” not printed, not blank.
Leather feels thick and sturdy; fakes often feel too light or plasticky.
Logo Plate: Check that the spade symbol is crisp and evenly centered.
Lining: Many authentic Kate Spade bags have interior fabric with repeating spade patterns or branding.
Hardware: Just like Coach, all metal hardware should have an inscription, not be blank.
Stitching: Even, tiny, and consistent, no loose threads.
Logo Plaque: The “R” in Prada has a curved leg, not straight. Fakes often miss this detail.
Lining: Authentic Prada uses the “Prada” name woven into the lining fabric, often alternating upside down and right side up.
Hardware: Engraved with “Prada,” and feels heavy. Plastic-feeling or lightweight hardware is a giveaway.
Serial Tag: Some authentic Pradas have a small white tag with a number inside the pocket, fakes often skip this.
If you can’t decide, don’t stress. I either:
Mark the bag as ❓ Unsure
Pass on it and wait for a better find.
Half the fun is the learning process and even spotting fakes makes you sharper for next time.
⚠️ Disclaimer: These are just my personal notes and observations from thrifting. I’m not a professional authenticator always do your own research before buying or reselling. I use Google Lens (part of the Google app, to research bags in store)