In this week's Fake Files episode, a client sent me a counterfeit Louis Vuitton Mini Papillon. Her cousin used them as Barbie's shoe luggage -LOL. It's a bag I would consider a really bad fake, meaning no high quality materials were used. Check out the episode below, then continue reading to compare an authentic Papillon to this counterfeit version:
1. Clasp Direction: The Papillon is made out of one piece of monogram canvas, so the back will show the upside down monogram print. On an authentic Papillon the clasp should hook on the right side vs the left side seen on the counterfeit Papillon.
2. Zipper Pull: The hardware should be a gold finished brass material. It should not say "MADE IN FRANCE" on the zipper pull.
3. Leather Strap: The leather strap should not have the edge glaze bleeding to the front of the strap. Also notice the indention trim on an the authentic version.
4. Piping: The piping should be a thin vachetta leather and should not bulge out like the counterfeit version.
5. Lining: The interior of an authentic Papillon should be made of cross grain leather. The zipper edge should also not be exposed like the counterfeit version. An interior stamp should also be visible on an authentic version.
Before you buy a Louis Vuitton deal:
- Look at the materials.
- Examine the stitching and edges.
- Inspect the hardware.
- Check the interior.
- Don't rely on a date code or “Made in” stamp alone.
- Compare the construction to an authentic example.
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