How to Determine If a Prada Handbag Is Authentic
- 1). Examine the strap on the handbag. Prada uses high-quality material and expert stitching, so if you notice any sign of loose threading or frayed material along the strap, you almost certainly have a fake.
- 2). Examine the hardware for any signs of discoloration, rust or fading. Look closely at the zippers, clasps and chains and note the quality of the brass. Prada uses only antique brass, so poorly constructed hardware is a dead giveaway for counterfeit merchandise.
- 3). Examine the stitch work on the outside as well as the inside of the bag. The stitching should appear consistent and clean throughout, with no loose or uneven threads. Authentic Prada handbags cost more in part because of the company's meticulous attention to even the smallest details.
- 4). Examine the leather. If trying to determine the authenticity of a leather handbag, check for inconsistencies in the color, like light patches on the surface of the bag. Also note the consistency of the leather. If the bag feels stiff, it's likely an impostor, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
- 5). Observe the Prada logo. It should appear on a metal tag on the outside and the inside of the bag. You should also see the word "Prada" stitched repeatedly along the inside.
- 6). Use common sense. If you find the handbag at a flea market for $99, you can bet that it's a fake. If you find it for sale by a reputable dealer in a high-end fashion district like Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, you can buy with confidence. If looking at handbags online, research the seller. Do a quick Google search for the company selling the item and look for ratings from other buyers. If using an online auction or retail site like eBay, click on the seller's user rating and read specific reviews.
