Since 1921 Gucci has been a brand associated with luxury and sophistication. It is best known for creating Italian-leather crafted goods, apparel, accessories, and perfumes.
But while many people adore this great brand, it’s no secret that Gucci products come at a hefty price. As a result, Gucci has become a target of counterfeiting. In this guide, we’ll explain how to tell if a Gucci bag is real.
The demand for fake luxury goods, particularly for designer handbags, is rapidly increasing. As a result counterfeiters are becoming better at their craft, making it harder to tell the difference between a fake Gucci handbag and the real deal.
However, not all hope is lost. There are a few red flags that you can look out for so that you can be confident in your Gucci purchase.
10 Hacks to Authenticate a Real Gucci Bag
Over the years Gucci has released hundreds of styles of handbags, however there are a few design classics from this luxury brand that stand out as firm favorites. These include the Gucci Dionysus bag, GG Marmont, the Sylvie and the Soho Disco Bag.
Socialites, influencers and celebrities view these Gucci handbags as a favorite. Because of their popularity there is a demand to counterfeit them, so here’s what you should keep an eye out for before purchasing a Gucci purse or wallet.
1. The Serial Number
Examining the serial number of a Gucci bag is one of the quickest ways to determine whether it’s an original or not. All authentic Gucci handbags have a leather tag with the Gucci logo located near the interior zipped pocket of the bag.
If you flip this tag upwards, you should be able to see the bag’s serial number tag. The number should be between 10 to 12 numbers spread across two rows, with no more than six numbers in each row.
It’s common to have the same supplier code for more than one bag, so even if you find another Gucci pouch with the same code, it’s nothing to be alarmed about.
It’s important to note that no matter what era the bag comes from, the serial number will consist only of numbers. One of the biggest red flags in spotting a fake Gucci bag is if there are letters on the tag or date codes.
2. Leather Quality
Top luxury handbag brands such as Gucci use high-quality leather, so it’s quite easy to distinguish the difference between genuine leather and fake bags. Real leather tends to have an imperfect appearance.
This includes an irregular grain which is quite common on vintage Gucci bags. Fake leather is usually overly smooth and has a plastic-like appearance. Another important indicator of a real bag is the smell of the leather.
Real leather has quite a unique smell, whereas fake leather has a chemical smell, which can be picked up right away especially in new Gucci bags.
3. Interior Tag
Authentic Gucci bags should have a dark brown leather tab which holds the bag’s serial number. The interior tag should also have a heat stamp with the brand’s trademark symbol, double G logo and the words ”Made in Italy”.
Gucci is one of the most famous Italian luxury brands, and they pride themselves on being designed and manufactured in Italy.
4. The Stitching
Another stamp of authenticity is the impeccable stitching. Many of Gucci’s bags such as their Soho and Marmont Collections are defined by their intricate stitching. So one of the best ways to spot a fake is to check the stitching.
An authentic bag will have stitching that will be even, consistent and free from any loose or broken threads.
5. Logo Quality
Gucci’s “GG” emblem is one of the most iconic elements of their bags, and is often one of the details that counterfeiters get wrong.
While the logo displayed on the exterior of the bag may differ depending on the style and make of the bag, the standard Gucci logo is made up of two interlocking “G’s” which should be uppercase letters.
The G’s should also come to a fine point at the top, while having a slightly thicker middle and should overlap each other. If you notice any irregularities in the logo, it is likely a fake bag.
6. QR Codes
QR codes are a more recent addition to authenticating Gucci bags. The QR code can be found on the small black fabric loop on the inside of the bag. The code will be printed in a white font with a 10-digit code.
These codes are similar to serial number tags and hold relevant information about the bag, such as the date code and bag model number.
7. Monogram Pattern
Genuine Gucci bags with the monogram style will feature a pattern that has the double GG logo. It’s important to pay attention to the consistency and spacing of this pattern.
The “G” on the left should be forward facing whilst the one on the right should be facing downwards and backward.
8. Controllato (Authentication) Card
Gucci includes a controllato card (meaning ‘checked card’ in Italian) with all their handbags purchased. This information card ensures that the bag has been verified after manufacturing.
However, they are quite easy to replicate, so pay close attention to the logo, spacing, and centering of the text of the card. Each card should have the word “Gucci” centered in capital letters.
Underneath the card, the words “controllato” should be displayed in lowercase letters.
9. Hardware
The hardware is an important feature of any designer bag. While counterfeiters may get the look right they usually fail to replicate the hardware of the bag.
A real Gucci handbag has hardware that is sturdy and heavy. The YKK zippers, locks, solid metal bottom, and other elements should be perfectly placed and stamped with the proper logos and fonts.
10. Authentic Gucci Dust Bags and Packaging
All real Gucci bags come with high-quality dust bags which protect the item and product information cards. The bags come in a dust bag that is usually dark brown, a light brown, white or black. They also have the Gucci logo or monogram.
Gucci dust bags should also have a soft, silky smooth finish to them. If any Gucci luggage or bag comes wrapped in plastic, it’s one of the first signs that the bag is fake.
Final Thoughts on How to Tell if a Gucci Bag is Real
With the market for counterfeit goods growing larger each day, it’s helpful to know the details of an authentic Gucci bag so that you can purchase one with the fullest confidence.
Buy modern Gucci bags from authorized sellers only, and when buying vintage bags make sure to purchase from reputable outlets.
If you find yourself struggling with identifying the difference between fake Gucci bags and the real ones, you can always consult a professional through an authentication service.
For more information on authenticating designer brand handbags, check out this guide on How to Authenticate Louis Vuitton.
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