How can you tell if a Louis Vuitton satchel is real?

To tell if a Louis Vuitton satchel is real, look at the handles and piping. The handles and piping of Louis Vuitton handbags are constructed from vachetta leather, a natural-toned cowhide that deepens to a rich honey color with age. If you’re looking at a vintage bag with bright, natural handles, move on. The piping is the leather trim that runs along the edges of a bag. On a real Louis Vuitton bag, the piping is made from the same high-quality leather as the handles and should match them exactly in color and texture. The handles are often framed by a contrasting burgundy edge trim that, like the handles themselves, will darken over time. Check for flaws, a plastic appearance or a painted texture in the contrast trim. Finally, check the color and the age of the bag. If you’re looking at a vintage bag with fresh, bright red piping, it’s probably a fake. Since there are many other characteristics to consider when authenticating a Louis Vuitton satchel, you may wish to have a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert assist you. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Louis Vuitton satchels and other handbags.