How to Authenticate Your Chanel Handbags

Timeless and classy, Chanel handbags are considered among the most iconic handbags in the world. From its iconic shapes, rich history, interlocking CC’s and classic quilted pattern, Chanel truly represents fine taste and luxury. However, being such an iconic and coveted brand, many counterfeits are flooding the market. It has now become more critical than ever to learn how to identify small differences and determine whether or not a Chanel bag you’re considering purchasing is real or not. Authenticating a Chanel bag is a real skill as there is no one single way to determine whether it's real or not. To assist you in distinguishing an authentic Chanel bag from a fake one, we’ve compiled a list of steps taken by our very own authentication team to determine the authenticity of a Chanel bag. Keep reading and never get scammed again!

Examine the CC Lock

The most widely recognisable feature on a Chanel bag is the CC lock. A replica lock will feature minor mistakes such as the style and shape of the interlocking C’s, or the placement of extra metal above it. The original CC lock can feature either flat or raised finishes with the right C overlapping the left C at the top and the left C overlapping the right C at the bottom. The lock on the famous Chanel 2.55 comes without any logo or stamping and is rectangular. Chanel bags are manufactured with both style of locks, so don’t despair if your bag features the rectangular version! Furthermore, you can also take a look at the actual lock stem: Original lock stems are manufactured from 24k gold (or silver) and will retain their condition, even when used for a lengthy period of time. Replicas, on the other hand, are only plated with gold which will likely start peeling off after use. Lastly, inspect the press studs for a quality feel and check. Replicas will likely fade and peel away quickly, while genuine press studs will maintain their appearance after use.

Inspect the Quilting

The quilting pattern is one of the most distinguishable factors of a Chanel bag and can be a great indicator of its authenticity. The best place to check the quilting is at the back of the bag: Ensure that the stitching is consistent with the diamond pattern and lines up perfectly. Please remember, however, that this feature can only be checked on a brand-new Chanel bag as it’s possible that wear or stretching of the leather has led to the lines getting slightly out of place.

Check the Back of the Lock

Stamping marks depend on the style of the bag and where it was manufactured. If your lock doesn’t feature a stamp it means that it was made in Italy. If, however, the lock has a stamp, your bag comes from France. The real distinguishing stamp factor on a real bag, compared to a fake, is the stamping mark on the backplate, which can be seen if you open the bag and look at the back of the turnstile lock. Chanel replicas may be made using various fonts and lettering on the backplate, and a vintage Chanel flap bag attaches using flat hand screws only alongside a clear font with even spacing, however, Chanel later transitioned to a proprietary 6-star screw-like those found on original Chanel Boy Bags.

Examine the Leather

Chanel only makes use of superior leather, usually lambskin, which has a visibly smooth appearance and feels soft to the touch. An original Chanel bag will always feel softer than a replica. Caviar skin is another well-known leather choice used by Chanel. Caviar leather is more textured to the touch and has a bubbly appearance. This type of leather is more durable and less likely to scratch and mark than lambskin leather.

Inspect the Logos or Branding

Checking the quality and font of the brand stamp can be another indicator of authenticity. Often, replicas rush the branding, so it looks like it's sitting on the leather, instead of being adequately embossed, and uses a thinner font.

Look at the Zippers

There are different kinds of zippers used on an authentic Chanel bag, namely the Lambo zipper, the EP zipper, the three C’s in a circle zipper, the DMC zipper, the OPTI DMC zipper, the YKK zipper, the éclair zipper and the 'no mark' zipper which can be found on vintage Chane bags.

Examine the Chain Strap

A Chanel handbag is famously known for its leather and chain strap. Modern Chanel bags feature leather straps folded back on themselves and stitched through each link, while vintage Chanel bags feature a link without leather threaded through it. Replicas generally don’t have a link without the leather threaded into it. Check details closely!

Verify the Bag’s Shape

Original Chanel bags are manufactured with high-quality material and have a square shape to them. Replica bags are generally boxy shaped and poorly constructed with poor quality materials that are not turned out properly.

Count the Lining/Stitching

This can be a great way to distinguish between a fake and original Chanel bag. Chanel bags are manufactured using up to eleven stitches per panel which is the distance of one side of the diamond shape. Additionally, the lining is another feature that you should be checking to determine whether a Chanel bag is real or not. The lining of a genuine bag will lie flat against the material without any visible bumps or lumps. Replica bags generally use inferior leather which could either be loose or crease easily.

Scrutinise the Authenticity Cards and Serial Codes

Original Chanel handbags from the mid-1980s are accompanied with authenticity cards embossed with a serial number. This serial number will match the serial number that appears in a sticker found somewhere within the handbag’s interior lining. The Chanel logo, hologram design and sticker will vary according to the year they were manufactured. At Luxity, we ensure that each and every Chanel bag we buy or sell is 100% authentic. Purchase your very own Chanel bag at Luxity today. Craving authentic Chanel handbags, high heels, sunglasses and more? Get shopping at Luxity's online store now!