How To Spot a Fake COACH Handbag

You wouldn't think that anyone would take the time or bother to make fake COACH bags because the originals are relatively inexpensive - at least compared to some of the other high-fashion bags such as Prada, LV, etc. But as you know, people will do anything to make a quick buck, particularly in this difficult economy.

Fake COACH bags are a little difficult to spot, but here are some tips based on my personal experiences and observations:

1. Signature fabric: The "C" pattern will be crooked. Except for some newer patterns, like the "optic" or my new favorite "scarf print," the tip of the horizontal "C" facing the other "C" should touch. Also, the pattern should line up and start in the center of the front panel of the bag (same with the back panel). The center seam should go straight down through the middle of the CC's, and the pattern should be aligned horizontally and vertically. Also, the pattern should line up on any front or back pockets, so that it looks like there is no break in the pattern.

2. The stitching or general construction of the bag looks sloppy - this is a sure sign because COACH does not make sloppy products! Each stitch should be the same length as every other stitch, it should be in a straight line, and there should be no "over-stitching".

3. The bag does not look like any other bag you've ever seen - if it looks "sort of" like a bag you've seen but something is "off" - be careful!

4. Photos: Beware of blurry photos.- this does not necessarily mean the bag is fake, but if you see photos such as these, contact the seller and ask if they can send you a cleaner, sharper photo of the item.

5. Authenticity: Take note if there is absolutely no mention that the bag is authentic! If so, ask the seller to verify that they are offering an authentic product. If they fail to respond to your request, this may be a sign that they don't want to incriminate themselves. But be careful! Just because the seller claims it's authentic does not mean that it is. Here at Angel's we offer a 100% Authenticity Guarantee on all COACH products on our site. In fact, more than 90% of all of our products come directly from a COACH store or Outlet. check us out at http://www.AngelsDistinctiveDiscountDesignerHandbags.com

6. Credo Patch: Most COACH bags have a "serial number" stamped on the inside, on a square patch of leather sewn into the lining. Some of the smaller purses (the "clutch," the "swingpack" and the "mini") do not have a serial number. The serial number typically consists of a series of numbers or a number-and-letter combination. The last 4-5 digits of the serial number indicate the style number of the bag. Please be careful, though, as some fake COACH bags also have a serial number - so just because the bag has a serial number does NOT mean the it is authentic.

If the patch is not stamped - in other words, embossed into the leather - but is simply printed in ink - beware! The only bags I've seen with the credo patch printed in ink are the newer lines, like the Legacy, where the credo is lettered in gold-colored ink - and even then, it is still stamped into the leather before it's lettered over in gold.

The best advice I can offer you is to do some due deligence, find and establish a relationship with a reputable supplier of Authentic COACH products, and buy only from them. You will be doing yourself, your friends and your customers the biggest favor, and saving yourself the headaches and hassels of buying fake COACH products.