By mid 80's, Louis Vuitton started adding letters to the codes and they represent the place where an item was made. MI 881- this means that the item was made in France in January 1988. Sometimes the letters are separated from the numbers, sometimes they use a three-digit-code, oftentimes, four. Date code by country All modern Louis Vuitton handbags (and many other of their products) will have a two digit country code. Notice below that SD could imply the bag came from France or the USA (San Dimas). Forums Premier Designers Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton Reference Library Date Codes Sign up to become a TPF member, and most of the ads you see will disappear. It's free and quick to sign up, so join the discussion right now!
A pioneer in monogram bags, Louis Vuitton has produced countless handcrafted purses that women and men alike covet.
Even if their artisanal handbags come with hefty price tags, Hollywood celebrities to common folk want to get their hands on one (or several).
The classic Louis Vuitton logo embellished on monogrammed leather
This comes as no surprise thanks to their top grade Italian leather and precise craftsmanship. Each bag comes with a whole lot of time, love, and effort.
The Hollywood favorite Louis Vuitton 'Keepall' duffel bag
Currently, Louis Vuitton houses Michelle Williams and Alicia Vikander as their main endorsers. Other under-the-radar LV faces include Jaden Smith, Cate Blanchett, and Jennifer Connelly.
Louis Vuitton showcases its 'Manhattan' bag
Twin Peaks Season 3 Torrent The FBI agent, who arrived in this mysterious place, was entrusted with sorting everything out. The man could not imagine what he had to deal with! Twin Peaks Season 3 Torrent. Torrent twin peaks season 3.
Unfortunately, with the rise of the brand's popularity also come the counterfeiters. Fake Louis Vuitton bags have dominated the e-commerce industry, resulting in numerous eBay sellers who offer knockoffs at ridiculously low prices.
In November 2019, CNBC reported that The RealReal, the world's largest online consumer marketplace for luxury items, has been selling fake luxury products. The same month, officials seized thousands of counterfeit designer bags at Dulles International Airport.
According to FOX 5 DC, the counterfeit cache included 2,601 coin purses, 459 purses, and three backpacks adorned with Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Prada, and Hermes designer labels.
Louis Vuitton 2003 Pre-Owned Monogram Multicolour Eye Love Holdall, $36,040 at Farfetch
Don't worry – all hope is not lost. We have the know-how on busting those fake Louis Vuittons, saving yourself the money and hassle of falling prey to counterfeit bag predators.
Without further ado, we bring you nine easy ways to tell whether your LV is the real deal:
1. The workmanship is top-notch artisanal
One of the more common ways to know if a bag is authentic or not is to check its workmanship. Just like Gucci handbags and other luxury designer bags, an authentic purse will have perfectly aligned stitches that are the same length.
In fact, the artisans behind authentic bags are so skilled that the number of stitches on one handle matches the other.
Authentic Louis Vuitton bags will have perfectly aligned stitches that are the same length
For Louis Vuitton bags, the stitching thread is more of a mustard color than a brighter yellow hue.
The leather pieces that make up the bag are perfectly cut and fitted with each other. If there are creases, bubbles, and misalignment due to bad fitting, you might want to put that bag down.
2. Hardware is beautifully crafted from brass
Bag connoisseurs know that the next thing to check for is hardware. Louis Vuitton uses top grade brass hardware that usually comes in shiny or matte. For shiny zippers and locks, do a reflection test – the brass should reflect as a mirror would.
Louis Vuitton uses top grade brass hardware
The zippers should not snag when you try to unzip the bag. Louis Vuitton also manufactures their own zippers and does not use YKK or other branded zippers.
Hardware should not be covered in plastic. Counterfeit bag makers wrap the hardware in plastic to prevent them from tarnishing right away. Quality hardware will not tarnish and is usually uncovered.
3. Shell pattern should be neat and symmetrical
Another obvious thing to look at in monogram bags is the shell pattern. For Louis Vuitton, the classic LV logo should be symmetrical and the letter L should always be lower than the V. If the letters are wonky and not perfectly aligned, the bag is not authentic.
Louis Vuitton's classic LV logo should be symmetrical and the letter L should always be lower than the V
It is also important to note the placing and consistency of the monogram pattern. If you look at the pattern diagonally, the order of one strip should be a fleur-de-lis, a circle, another fleur-de-lis, then the LV logo. The strip alternating it should contain only the fleur-de-lis symbol.
For logo embellishments, check that they are symmetrical and beautifully crafted. The Maison logo usually writes 'Louis Vuitton Paris' in two lines.
4. Vachetta leather oxidizes and darkens over time
The leather strips that run across and make up the handles are called Vachetta leather. Vachetta leather is made out of natural, untreated European calf hide that darkens with oxidation over time.
Vachetta leather oxidizes and darkens over time
If the strips stay a pale color over time, it is fake. The leather should darken into a beautiful golden shade as it ages.
5. Handle trim should be a darker shade of red, not bright red
There are many great things about Louis Vuitton monogram bags that keep us preoccupied. To the hawk-eyed, one lesser-known detail is the red trim that runs along with the Vachetta leather.
Identify fake Louis Vuitton bags by studying the shade of the trim
You can easily tell a fake Louis Vuitton bag from an original one from the shade of the trim. The authentic ones will run closer to burgundy (but not quite) while counterfeits will usually be a brighter shade of red.
Low-quality Louis Vuitton counterfeits will also have the trim peeling off over a short amount of time.
6. Date code should be found on the lining
Each bag comes with a date code, which is basically a little leather tag where letters and numbers are embossed to note where and when the bag was made.
Bhramanam serial episode 451. Unlike other bags, Louis Vuitton date codes are a little harder to find since they're tucked within the lining. One thing is for sure: an authentic LV will always have a date code.
In some cases, the date codes are stamped into the lining.
7. Know your dust bag and box history
Counterfeiters often get lazy when it comes to details. A good way to catch fake products is to know your history of Louis Vuitton dust bags and boxes.
Dustbags before 2004 are made out of beige flannel with the LV logo on it and brown drawstrings. Some of the older bags may have blue drawstrings on them, and some have felt-like material that has jagged cut edges.
Louis Vuitton Pre-Owned Special Order Monogram Amfar II Trunk Case, $20,578 at Farfetch
This brown leather trunk case from Louis Vuitton features a round top handle, a push-lock fastening, an all-over logo print, gold-tone hardware, a hanging key fob, an internal mirror, internal drawers, two removable logo-print bags, and two detachable shoulder straps
From 2004 to 2016, the beige dust bag is made out of flannel or linen. A perfectly symmetrical and centered LV logo is printed in brown on it. A small white tag saying where the bag was made can be found inside.
In 2016, Louis Vuitton revamped their packaging. All their boxes are orange with navy blue text. The dust bags followed suit, turning into a cream color with navy blue writing.
8. Use your sense of smell
This one takes some time to practice. It's good to know what authentic leather smells like so you can easily set it apart from synthetic ones.
Also, if the bag reeks of chemicals, you might want to reconsider your purchase.
9. Common sense, really
If you have a bag that retails for $1,000 and is being sold to you at $100, there is much reason to be wary. Research the original retail price online before considering a purchase.
Louis Vuitton Pre-Owned x Comme Des Garçons Burned Holes Monogram Tote, $8,696 at Farfetch
This dark brown and beige leather tote from Louis Vuitton features a monogram pattern, gold-tone hardware, round top handles, an internal logo patch, a hanging luggage tag, a drawstring closure, and a removable lining
Louis Vuitton also lists the retailers where their bags can be purchased. The brand also limits online resellers, so be careful of purchasing bags over the internet.
Louis Vuitton Questions and Answers
Why are LV bags so expensive?
One reason is the high manufacturing cost. The luxury brand produces its handbags in workshops located in France, Spain, and the United States, and does not outsource manufacturing to cheaper locations like India and China.
Cynthia Bailey carries a large Louis Vuitton tote at LAX on March 5, 2020
In addition, the company spends billions of dollars every year on marketing. According to Reuters, in 2018 Louis Vuitton spent 5.6 billion euros ($6.3 billion) on marketing, reaching 12% of group revenues.
Does Louis Vuitton have a sale?
No, Louis Vuitton doesn't have sales that are open to the public. Instead of discounting, the company will burn or destroy unsold stock. In some countries, the company organizes secret sales for its employees.
Why does Louis Vuitton burn unsold bags?
While burning handbags helps maintain the exclusivity of their goods and stops them from falling into the hands of illegal counterfeiters, environmentalists have criticized the company for this wasteful strategy.
Some myths:
1. 'The leather will never cut off at the LV logo.'
Some have claimed that pieces of leather will usually not cut off at the LV logo, but that is not necessarily true. For smaller bags, the logos are cut off at the edge.
One thing that you can check for, however, is if all the logos cut off at the same point. This means that the pattern is symmetrical.
2. 'Louis Vuitton does not invert their logo.'
Again, this is not true. For models that use a single continuous leather piece such as the Keepall, one side will have inverted logos on it.
Louis Vuitton is continuously coming up with designs outside of the classic ones, so it's good to know their bags well. A great way to familiarize yourself is to study their photos online.
If you're in doubt about a purchase you made, you can call Louis Vuitton for help in authenticating your product.
Celebrity Fans of Louis Vuitton Bags
Louis Vuitton Date Code One Letter Five Numbers
Some of the celebrities who go gaga over Louis Vuitton include Selena Gomez, the Kardashians, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and Miranda Kerr. Check out more celebrities who love their LV's below.
Miranda Kerr, Selena Gomez, and Rihanna love their Louis Vuitton purses
Hilary Duff gleefully strolls through the Los Angeles Airport (LAX) with her two-piece Louis Vuitton luggage
Louis Vuitton Spain Code
Cherries, pinks, and furry things: Kim Kardashian, Reese Witherspoon, and Kelly Osbourne prefer their Louis Vuitton with a dash of cuteness
Louis Vuitton Codes For Bags
Taylor Swift dresses up her casual outfit with a Louis Vuitton x Christian Louboutin 'Shopping Bag'
Alicia Vikander, Dita Von Teese, and Christina Milian pick out variations of the infamous LV monogram
For more tips on busting the fake LV's, watch the video below to see how a fake $169 bag compares to a real $1,850 handbag:
We have to give it to brands like Louis Vuitton – one, for creating legendary pieces, and two, for the efforts they put in to uniquely ratify their merchandise. Ironically, LV is one of the most counterfeited brands in the world. Counterfeiting is also so rampant because most of us (read #louisvuittonlovers and #louisvuittondreamers) cannot distinguish between a fake and an original. We are also oblivious to the fact that LVs never go on sale and other little details (like stolen or damaged products are not resold locally) that are supposed to make a product a Louis Vuitton (*cringes, and regrets all the shopping from Chinatown). Yes, I had no clue either and lived with that regret for a long time. There's this and a lot more to know about ensuring you get an authentic Louis Vuitton. How, though? Read on to find out all about it.
How To Know If You Have An Authentic Louis Vuitton
Instagram, Instagram
There are some brand basics we need to know to save ourselves from embarrassment, if anything. You don't have to be an authenticating agency to understand any of this. Here are four easy ways to if you have an authentic Louis Vuitton in a jiffy.
- Material
Louis Vuitton uses the best materials of the finest quality, which is quite apparent. So, when you look at a bag and know that something is off, it must be. Trust your gut. If you are purchasing from an online retailer, it's quite a tricky situation, so do not pay in full unless you get hold of the bag. Ask for more pictures. The signature materials are Monogram canvas, Damier Ebene, and Damier Azur, which are all perfect canvases for handbags because they are waterproof, durable, and can be cleaned easily. Louis Vuitton Empreinte leather was introduced in 2010, and was an instant hit. Monogram Vernis Leather, Electric Leather, Damier Carbon are all additions to the classics. So, if you are buying from a retailer and want to know if it is legit merchandise, ask these questions. You'd have your answer.
- Hardware
Inspecting the hardware is the easiest way to figure out if a product is fake because you will know if the zipper, etc., are made of plastic or other fiber materials and coated with gold color. Plus, the brand name is embossed on it, which counterfeit editions fail to duplicate because they cannot achieve that kind of precision with the materials they use, and also don't have the technology to do so. Also, Louis Vuitton uses hardware of the highest quality, which is invariably strong, heavy, and sturdy. Other details like the cut of the D-rings to fit the specific hardware that sits perfectly on the leather interlocks without allowing too much space for movement are unique characteristics of the brand and its bags.
- Date Code
Dare codes are another unique feature of Louis Vuitton merchandise, and these are different from the serial number categorizing that most brands follow. The date codes are a rather new invention, and thus you won't find date codes on vintage bags made before 1980.
The newest of its collection goes like this – two letters, followed by four digits. For example, FL2079 – where FL stands for the factory it was manufactured at in the United States; the first and 3rd numbers represent the week (25th week) it was manufactured, while the second and fourth numbers represent the year, which is 2009.
Before 2007, it used to be two letters followed by the month of manufacturing and year. The first and third letters represented the month, and the second and fourth represent the year. So, FA1102 would mean it was made in a factory in Switzerland, in October 2012.
The early 1980s – numbers preceded the letters – anywhere between three to four numbers followed by two letters. So, if the code goes 8211CA – it means that it was manufactured in November 1982 in a factory in Spain.
However, a lot of knockoffs might try and randomly replicate this information, so doubly check if the condition of the bag, the design, model, series, and hardware are all in sync. I know it might sound like too much work, but hey, if you are investing on these, and not walking into an LV store or dealer, you gotta do what you gotta do.
Enter Louis Vuitton Date Code
- Stitches
Stitches on LV bags are even, regular, and consistent. Even at the crevices of the handle tabs, the number of stitches on the bag are exact on both the sides of the handles. If the finish of the stitches looks sloppy, count them on either side, and that will give you a clear picture.
General Sands was arrested at Julian Assange's home in 2015 in this world famous child cannibal case for fighting cannibals face-to-face after witnessing an underground ceremony during a Hampstead Christ Church cannibal service. General Sands believes with all her heart there's mass child rape and cannibalism going on inside Church of England. HAMPSTEAD 'SEX SCANDAL'. The mother of Alisa and Gabriel reported to the police that her children had been sexually abused by their father. Now, certain lawyers want the video 'Papa Kills Babies' removed from the internet The following is from a blog post entitled: Serious satanic child abuse in the UK. The Hampstead pedophile scandal is different in a number of ways from all previous ones covered in this book. Instead of dozens, scores or hundreds of victim-survivors coming forth to report their abuse, in the small high-end community of Hampstead in North London, only two children were captured on record describing their unholy abuse. In 2014, a leaked video depicted two young children, explaining in detail the horrific abuse that they had been exposed to at Hampstead Christ Church Primary School in London England. Scenes of satanic rituals, sexual abuse, infant murder and cannibalism were described in vivid detail by the children, causing the video to become viral. The Hampstead Satanic cult hoax must be classed as one of the most bizarre cases ever to be examined in a British court. And the consequent ruling by Mrs Justice Pauffley is as definitive as the case is extraordinary. It has attracted the notice not only of the media, but of barristers as well. Hampstead church abuse.
Other interesting trivia – if you look closely, you can easily spot a fake.
- The tail of the letter ‘L' is short.
- The letter ‘O' is quite rounded.
- The letters in 'Ts' should be so close to each other that they look like they are touching each other.
- LV bags are rumored to be made of vinyl, but they are not, it has to be pure leather.
- Louis Vuitton original merchandise never goes on sale. So, unless they are pre-owned or from an older series being sold by a seller, do not trust the reduced prices. Even then, you need to authenticate the bag first.
- Louis Vuitton is also known to burn all rejected merchandise, so be wary of that too.
- The interior Louis Vuitton logo is embossed inside your handbag – it is clear, concise and nearly perfect. A lot of fake sellers are given away here.
- Contrary to popular belief, LV bags have upside down symbols in some of their models – like Papillons, Speedy styles, etc.
- Louis Vuitton bags are made with a single big canvas without seams anywhere, not even at the bottom of the bags. However, there are some pieces that are made of a separate canvas, and they have the upside down symbols.
- Louis Vuitton bags, suitcases or any other merchandise do not come with tags like other brand products. They are slid into little pockets inside the bag.
- Louis Vuitton bags are made in France, USA, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Spain.
- Never trust a seller promising to sell the latest collection that has not been released. That's a big red flag.
Expert's Answers For Readers' Questions
Do all LV bags have a serial number?
No, they have date codes. LV bags do not have serial numbers, and that is what puts them apart from a lot of brands, plus it is easy to identify a fake. They have date codes, which follow a nomenclature that cannot be messed with. The date code should be aligned with the ‘Made In (country)' tag. So, if the date code says SA (Italy), the tag cannot say Made in France or Spain.
What is the date code?
Louis Vuitton Date Code Location
Date codes are unique manufacturing codes about products of brands. These help customers authenticate bags if they are not directly purchasing from Louis Vuitton stores or a very trusted reseller.
How can I authenticate a Louis Vuitton bag if I'm buying it online?
Ask your seller to share pictures, and a lot of them. Now that you know how to spot a fake Louis Vuitton, insist on their sharing photos of some of the most intricate details – usually, the stitches, the shade of the canvas, the embossing of the logo, handles, hardware, tag, logo or monogram. They are quite telling if you look closely. And, when your gut tells you that something is not right, it probably isn't.
What if my Louis Vuitton bag does not have a date code?
Some of the older versions do not have date codes, and on some old materials, the date codes may have faded out, so, look for other details to validate it.
So you think all of this is too much to know? Well, you will be thankful someday. Try and get some of your basics right and do not fall for a fake. For, an LV addict knows a fake when she sees one. Have you ever fallen into a trap like this? Or, do you have any other authenticating hacks? Let us know by dropping in a text in the comment section below.
Banner Image Credits:Instagram
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Louis Vuitton Wallet Date Code
By mid 80's, Louis Vuitton started adding letters to the codes and they represent the place where an item was made. MI 881- this means that the item was made in France in January 1988. Sometimes the letters are separated from the numbers, sometimes they use a three-digit-code, oftentimes, four. Date code by country All modern Louis Vuitton handbags (and many other of their products) will have a two digit country code. Notice below that SD could imply the bag came from France or the USA (San Dimas). Forums Premier Designers Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton Reference Library Date Codes Sign up to become a TPF member, and most of the ads you see will disappear. It's free and quick to sign up, so join the discussion right now!
A pioneer in monogram bags, Louis Vuitton has produced countless handcrafted purses that women and men alike covet.
Even if their artisanal handbags come with hefty price tags, Hollywood celebrities to common folk want to get their hands on one (or several).
The classic Louis Vuitton logo embellished on monogrammed leather
This comes as no surprise thanks to their top grade Italian leather and precise craftsmanship. Each bag comes with a whole lot of time, love, and effort.
The Hollywood favorite Louis Vuitton 'Keepall' duffel bag
Currently, Louis Vuitton houses Michelle Williams and Alicia Vikander as their main endorsers. Other under-the-radar LV faces include Jaden Smith, Cate Blanchett, and Jennifer Connelly.
Louis Vuitton showcases its 'Manhattan' bag
Twin Peaks Season 3 Torrent The FBI agent, who arrived in this mysterious place, was entrusted with sorting everything out. The man could not imagine what he had to deal with! Twin Peaks Season 3 Torrent. Torrent twin peaks season 3.
Unfortunately, with the rise of the brand's popularity also come the counterfeiters. Fake Louis Vuitton bags have dominated the e-commerce industry, resulting in numerous eBay sellers who offer knockoffs at ridiculously low prices.
In November 2019, CNBC reported that The RealReal, the world's largest online consumer marketplace for luxury items, has been selling fake luxury products. The same month, officials seized thousands of counterfeit designer bags at Dulles International Airport.
According to FOX 5 DC, the counterfeit cache included 2,601 coin purses, 459 purses, and three backpacks adorned with Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Prada, and Hermes designer labels.
Louis Vuitton 2003 Pre-Owned Monogram Multicolour Eye Love Holdall, $36,040 at Farfetch
Don't worry – all hope is not lost. We have the know-how on busting those fake Louis Vuittons, saving yourself the money and hassle of falling prey to counterfeit bag predators.
Without further ado, we bring you nine easy ways to tell whether your LV is the real deal:
1. The workmanship is top-notch artisanal
One of the more common ways to know if a bag is authentic or not is to check its workmanship. Just like Gucci handbags and other luxury designer bags, an authentic purse will have perfectly aligned stitches that are the same length.
In fact, the artisans behind authentic bags are so skilled that the number of stitches on one handle matches the other.
Authentic Louis Vuitton bags will have perfectly aligned stitches that are the same length
For Louis Vuitton bags, the stitching thread is more of a mustard color than a brighter yellow hue.
The leather pieces that make up the bag are perfectly cut and fitted with each other. If there are creases, bubbles, and misalignment due to bad fitting, you might want to put that bag down.
2. Hardware is beautifully crafted from brass
Bag connoisseurs know that the next thing to check for is hardware. Louis Vuitton uses top grade brass hardware that usually comes in shiny or matte. For shiny zippers and locks, do a reflection test – the brass should reflect as a mirror would.
Louis Vuitton uses top grade brass hardware
The zippers should not snag when you try to unzip the bag. Louis Vuitton also manufactures their own zippers and does not use YKK or other branded zippers.
Hardware should not be covered in plastic. Counterfeit bag makers wrap the hardware in plastic to prevent them from tarnishing right away. Quality hardware will not tarnish and is usually uncovered.
3. Shell pattern should be neat and symmetrical
Another obvious thing to look at in monogram bags is the shell pattern. For Louis Vuitton, the classic LV logo should be symmetrical and the letter L should always be lower than the V. If the letters are wonky and not perfectly aligned, the bag is not authentic.
Louis Vuitton's classic LV logo should be symmetrical and the letter L should always be lower than the V
It is also important to note the placing and consistency of the monogram pattern. If you look at the pattern diagonally, the order of one strip should be a fleur-de-lis, a circle, another fleur-de-lis, then the LV logo. The strip alternating it should contain only the fleur-de-lis symbol.
For logo embellishments, check that they are symmetrical and beautifully crafted. The Maison logo usually writes 'Louis Vuitton Paris' in two lines.
4. Vachetta leather oxidizes and darkens over time
The leather strips that run across and make up the handles are called Vachetta leather. Vachetta leather is made out of natural, untreated European calf hide that darkens with oxidation over time.
Vachetta leather oxidizes and darkens over time
If the strips stay a pale color over time, it is fake. The leather should darken into a beautiful golden shade as it ages.
5. Handle trim should be a darker shade of red, not bright red
There are many great things about Louis Vuitton monogram bags that keep us preoccupied. To the hawk-eyed, one lesser-known detail is the red trim that runs along with the Vachetta leather.
Identify fake Louis Vuitton bags by studying the shade of the trim
You can easily tell a fake Louis Vuitton bag from an original one from the shade of the trim. The authentic ones will run closer to burgundy (but not quite) while counterfeits will usually be a brighter shade of red.
Low-quality Louis Vuitton counterfeits will also have the trim peeling off over a short amount of time.
6. Date code should be found on the lining
Each bag comes with a date code, which is basically a little leather tag where letters and numbers are embossed to note where and when the bag was made.
Bhramanam serial episode 451. Unlike other bags, Louis Vuitton date codes are a little harder to find since they're tucked within the lining. One thing is for sure: an authentic LV will always have a date code.
In some cases, the date codes are stamped into the lining.
7. Know your dust bag and box history
Counterfeiters often get lazy when it comes to details. A good way to catch fake products is to know your history of Louis Vuitton dust bags and boxes.
Dustbags before 2004 are made out of beige flannel with the LV logo on it and brown drawstrings. Some of the older bags may have blue drawstrings on them, and some have felt-like material that has jagged cut edges.
Louis Vuitton Pre-Owned Special Order Monogram Amfar II Trunk Case, $20,578 at Farfetch
This brown leather trunk case from Louis Vuitton features a round top handle, a push-lock fastening, an all-over logo print, gold-tone hardware, a hanging key fob, an internal mirror, internal drawers, two removable logo-print bags, and two detachable shoulder straps
From 2004 to 2016, the beige dust bag is made out of flannel or linen. A perfectly symmetrical and centered LV logo is printed in brown on it. A small white tag saying where the bag was made can be found inside.
In 2016, Louis Vuitton revamped their packaging. All their boxes are orange with navy blue text. The dust bags followed suit, turning into a cream color with navy blue writing.
8. Use your sense of smell
This one takes some time to practice. It's good to know what authentic leather smells like so you can easily set it apart from synthetic ones.
Also, if the bag reeks of chemicals, you might want to reconsider your purchase.
9. Common sense, really
If you have a bag that retails for $1,000 and is being sold to you at $100, there is much reason to be wary. Research the original retail price online before considering a purchase.
Louis Vuitton Pre-Owned x Comme Des Garçons Burned Holes Monogram Tote, $8,696 at Farfetch
This dark brown and beige leather tote from Louis Vuitton features a monogram pattern, gold-tone hardware, round top handles, an internal logo patch, a hanging luggage tag, a drawstring closure, and a removable lining
Louis Vuitton also lists the retailers where their bags can be purchased. The brand also limits online resellers, so be careful of purchasing bags over the internet.
Louis Vuitton Questions and Answers
Why are LV bags so expensive?
One reason is the high manufacturing cost. The luxury brand produces its handbags in workshops located in France, Spain, and the United States, and does not outsource manufacturing to cheaper locations like India and China.
Cynthia Bailey carries a large Louis Vuitton tote at LAX on March 5, 2020
In addition, the company spends billions of dollars every year on marketing. According to Reuters, in 2018 Louis Vuitton spent 5.6 billion euros ($6.3 billion) on marketing, reaching 12% of group revenues.
Does Louis Vuitton have a sale?
No, Louis Vuitton doesn't have sales that are open to the public. Instead of discounting, the company will burn or destroy unsold stock. In some countries, the company organizes secret sales for its employees.
Why does Louis Vuitton burn unsold bags?
While burning handbags helps maintain the exclusivity of their goods and stops them from falling into the hands of illegal counterfeiters, environmentalists have criticized the company for this wasteful strategy.
Some myths:
1. 'The leather will never cut off at the LV logo.'
Some have claimed that pieces of leather will usually not cut off at the LV logo, but that is not necessarily true. For smaller bags, the logos are cut off at the edge.
One thing that you can check for, however, is if all the logos cut off at the same point. This means that the pattern is symmetrical.
2. 'Louis Vuitton does not invert their logo.'
Again, this is not true. For models that use a single continuous leather piece such as the Keepall, one side will have inverted logos on it.
Louis Vuitton is continuously coming up with designs outside of the classic ones, so it's good to know their bags well. A great way to familiarize yourself is to study their photos online.
If you're in doubt about a purchase you made, you can call Louis Vuitton for help in authenticating your product.
Celebrity Fans of Louis Vuitton Bags
Louis Vuitton Date Code One Letter Five Numbers
Some of the celebrities who go gaga over Louis Vuitton include Selena Gomez, the Kardashians, Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and Miranda Kerr. Check out more celebrities who love their LV's below.
Miranda Kerr, Selena Gomez, and Rihanna love their Louis Vuitton purses
Hilary Duff gleefully strolls through the Los Angeles Airport (LAX) with her two-piece Louis Vuitton luggage
Louis Vuitton Spain Code
Cherries, pinks, and furry things: Kim Kardashian, Reese Witherspoon, and Kelly Osbourne prefer their Louis Vuitton with a dash of cuteness
Louis Vuitton Codes For Bags
Taylor Swift dresses up her casual outfit with a Louis Vuitton x Christian Louboutin 'Shopping Bag'
Alicia Vikander, Dita Von Teese, and Christina Milian pick out variations of the infamous LV monogram
For more tips on busting the fake LV's, watch the video below to see how a fake $169 bag compares to a real $1,850 handbag:
We have to give it to brands like Louis Vuitton – one, for creating legendary pieces, and two, for the efforts they put in to uniquely ratify their merchandise. Ironically, LV is one of the most counterfeited brands in the world. Counterfeiting is also so rampant because most of us (read #louisvuittonlovers and #louisvuittondreamers) cannot distinguish between a fake and an original. We are also oblivious to the fact that LVs never go on sale and other little details (like stolen or damaged products are not resold locally) that are supposed to make a product a Louis Vuitton (*cringes, and regrets all the shopping from Chinatown). Yes, I had no clue either and lived with that regret for a long time. There's this and a lot more to know about ensuring you get an authentic Louis Vuitton. How, though? Read on to find out all about it.
How To Know If You Have An Authentic Louis Vuitton
Instagram, Instagram
There are some brand basics we need to know to save ourselves from embarrassment, if anything. You don't have to be an authenticating agency to understand any of this. Here are four easy ways to if you have an authentic Louis Vuitton in a jiffy.
- Material
Louis Vuitton uses the best materials of the finest quality, which is quite apparent. So, when you look at a bag and know that something is off, it must be. Trust your gut. If you are purchasing from an online retailer, it's quite a tricky situation, so do not pay in full unless you get hold of the bag. Ask for more pictures. The signature materials are Monogram canvas, Damier Ebene, and Damier Azur, which are all perfect canvases for handbags because they are waterproof, durable, and can be cleaned easily. Louis Vuitton Empreinte leather was introduced in 2010, and was an instant hit. Monogram Vernis Leather, Electric Leather, Damier Carbon are all additions to the classics. So, if you are buying from a retailer and want to know if it is legit merchandise, ask these questions. You'd have your answer.
- Hardware
Inspecting the hardware is the easiest way to figure out if a product is fake because you will know if the zipper, etc., are made of plastic or other fiber materials and coated with gold color. Plus, the brand name is embossed on it, which counterfeit editions fail to duplicate because they cannot achieve that kind of precision with the materials they use, and also don't have the technology to do so. Also, Louis Vuitton uses hardware of the highest quality, which is invariably strong, heavy, and sturdy. Other details like the cut of the D-rings to fit the specific hardware that sits perfectly on the leather interlocks without allowing too much space for movement are unique characteristics of the brand and its bags.
- Date Code
Dare codes are another unique feature of Louis Vuitton merchandise, and these are different from the serial number categorizing that most brands follow. The date codes are a rather new invention, and thus you won't find date codes on vintage bags made before 1980.
The newest of its collection goes like this – two letters, followed by four digits. For example, FL2079 – where FL stands for the factory it was manufactured at in the United States; the first and 3rd numbers represent the week (25th week) it was manufactured, while the second and fourth numbers represent the year, which is 2009.
Before 2007, it used to be two letters followed by the month of manufacturing and year. The first and third letters represented the month, and the second and fourth represent the year. So, FA1102 would mean it was made in a factory in Switzerland, in October 2012.
The early 1980s – numbers preceded the letters – anywhere between three to four numbers followed by two letters. So, if the code goes 8211CA – it means that it was manufactured in November 1982 in a factory in Spain.
However, a lot of knockoffs might try and randomly replicate this information, so doubly check if the condition of the bag, the design, model, series, and hardware are all in sync. I know it might sound like too much work, but hey, if you are investing on these, and not walking into an LV store or dealer, you gotta do what you gotta do.
Enter Louis Vuitton Date Code
- Stitches
Stitches on LV bags are even, regular, and consistent. Even at the crevices of the handle tabs, the number of stitches on the bag are exact on both the sides of the handles. If the finish of the stitches looks sloppy, count them on either side, and that will give you a clear picture.
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Other interesting trivia – if you look closely, you can easily spot a fake.
- The tail of the letter ‘L' is short.
- The letter ‘O' is quite rounded.
- The letters in 'Ts' should be so close to each other that they look like they are touching each other.
- LV bags are rumored to be made of vinyl, but they are not, it has to be pure leather.
- Louis Vuitton original merchandise never goes on sale. So, unless they are pre-owned or from an older series being sold by a seller, do not trust the reduced prices. Even then, you need to authenticate the bag first.
- Louis Vuitton is also known to burn all rejected merchandise, so be wary of that too.
- The interior Louis Vuitton logo is embossed inside your handbag – it is clear, concise and nearly perfect. A lot of fake sellers are given away here.
- Contrary to popular belief, LV bags have upside down symbols in some of their models – like Papillons, Speedy styles, etc.
- Louis Vuitton bags are made with a single big canvas without seams anywhere, not even at the bottom of the bags. However, there are some pieces that are made of a separate canvas, and they have the upside down symbols.
- Louis Vuitton bags, suitcases or any other merchandise do not come with tags like other brand products. They are slid into little pockets inside the bag.
- Louis Vuitton bags are made in France, USA, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Spain.
- Never trust a seller promising to sell the latest collection that has not been released. That's a big red flag.
Expert's Answers For Readers' Questions
Do all LV bags have a serial number?
No, they have date codes. LV bags do not have serial numbers, and that is what puts them apart from a lot of brands, plus it is easy to identify a fake. They have date codes, which follow a nomenclature that cannot be messed with. The date code should be aligned with the ‘Made In (country)' tag. So, if the date code says SA (Italy), the tag cannot say Made in France or Spain.
What is the date code?
Louis Vuitton Date Code Location
Date codes are unique manufacturing codes about products of brands. These help customers authenticate bags if they are not directly purchasing from Louis Vuitton stores or a very trusted reseller.
How can I authenticate a Louis Vuitton bag if I'm buying it online?
Ask your seller to share pictures, and a lot of them. Now that you know how to spot a fake Louis Vuitton, insist on their sharing photos of some of the most intricate details – usually, the stitches, the shade of the canvas, the embossing of the logo, handles, hardware, tag, logo or monogram. They are quite telling if you look closely. And, when your gut tells you that something is not right, it probably isn't.
What if my Louis Vuitton bag does not have a date code?
Some of the older versions do not have date codes, and on some old materials, the date codes may have faded out, so, look for other details to validate it.
So you think all of this is too much to know? Well, you will be thankful someday. Try and get some of your basics right and do not fall for a fake. For, an LV addict knows a fake when she sees one. Have you ever fallen into a trap like this? Or, do you have any other authenticating hacks? Let us know by dropping in a text in the comment section below.
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