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How can you tell if a Louis Vuitton satchel is real?
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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.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
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Shop for Louis Vuitton Handbags and Purses on 1stDibs
Louis Vuitton Sac epaule LV Pleaty 2005 Blue Denim Monogram Canvas Shoulder Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in PARIS, FR
Louis Vuitton Pleaty bag (launched in 2005), in blue monogram denim canvas, natural leather, and gold-tone hardware. It features a wide flap closure with a signature buckle, a mustar...
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Early 2000s French Structured Shoulder Bags
Louis Vuitton 1st Generation Damier Azur Neverfull GM Tote Bag Everyday Carryall
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A beautiful first-generation Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM in Damier Azur from the 2007 introduction collection. This early model features the now-discontinued Articles de Voyage stripe...
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LOUIS VUITTON brown Monogram Canvas POCHETTE METIS Crossbody Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Louis Vuitton Pochette Métis bag in the House’s Monogram canvas features a distinctive S-lock closure with a polished gold-tone finish and a zipped back pocket. Lined ...
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Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Hampstead PM Early Rare Model Collector 2000s Tote Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in San Diego, CA
A beautiful early-model Louis Vuitton Damier Azur Hampstead PM, introduced shortly after the Damier Azur line debuted in 2006. The Hampstead was one of the first structured totes Lou...
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LOUIS VUITTON brown Monogram Canvas PETITE BOITE CHAPEAU Shoulder Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Louis Vuitton Petite Boîte Chapeau is a modern reinterpretation of the House’s iconic hatbox, crafted in classic coated Monogram canvas with natural cowhide leath...
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Vintage Louis Vuitton Y2K Monogram Canvas Looping PM Shoulder Bag Made in USA
By Louis Vuitton
Located in San Diego, CA
A timeless icon of early 2000s authentic Louis Vuitton design, this super rare Louis Vuitton Looping PM Shoulder Bag embodies the effortless sophistication of the Y2K era. Discontinued in 2004, this is a very sought out bag. Crafted from the brand’s signature Monogram coated canvas, it features a gently curved silhouette and structured single-arch vachetta leather handle that sits perfectly on the shoulder.
The interior reveals a soft beige microfiber lining with a zippered pocket and open slot — ideal for everyday essentials. Finished with golden brass hardware and the classic “Louis Vuitton Paris, Made in U.S.A.” heat stamp, this vintage piece carries the date code SD0052, denoting May 2002 production from Louis Vuitton’s California atelier.
An enduring favorite among collectors and style icons alike, the Looping PM offers a chic balance between functionality and French heritage craftsmanship — a true wardrobe staple that pairs effortlessly with modern tailoring or casual weekend denim.
Size and Measurements:
• Height: 8.5 in (21.5 cm)
• Width: 9.5 in (24 cm)
• Depth: 3 in (7.5 cm)
• Handle drop: 8 in (20 cm)
Condition: Good vintage condition with gentle patina to vachetta leather consistent with age. Some minor marks to the lining that cannot be seen when worn. Smooth zipper closure and intact stitching throughout.
Origin: Made in U.S.A.
Date Code: SD0052 (May 2002)
Collection: Monogram Canvas Looping PM
Hardware: Gold-tone brass
Lining: Beige microfiber
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Louis Vuitton Looping PM, 2002 Louis Vuitton shoulder bag, Y2K Louis Vuitton, vintage LV monogram bag, early 2000s Louis Vuitton, Louis Vuitton made in USA...
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