How to Spot a Fake Hermes: Five Tips!

Everyone loves a good deal when it comes to buying high fashion, but it is important to be educated to avoid getting scammed. Michael's Luxury Consignment has been authenticating luxury handbags for over 70 years and we have developed a keen eye for spotting fakes. Knock off handbags or 'dupes' have become a real problem in the fashion industry. It has become harder and harder for the average consumer to tell real and fake apart. You can watch this video to learn more about the consequences of inauthentic handbags and the threats it poses to everyone. One of the most sought after designer brands, Hermes, is also one of the most copied. Our team of authenticators have developed this blog to give you five simple ways to make sure your Hermes bag is the real deal before you make a big purchase!

Branded Stamps

The first thing to look for when inspecting any Hermes bag are branded stamps! There are many to look for and the location of them depends on the style of bag. Stamps can say Hermes Paris, Made in France and the serial ID. Serial ID's consist of letters, numbers and shapes. Normally, there will be stamps on the top of the bag in the center, on the inside corners of the bag, underneath flaps and on the back of the closure strap. Please reference here for all the stamps your bag should have.

Perfect Stitching

One of the most obvious tell tale signs that an Hermes handbag is fake is sloppy stitching. All Hermes bags are hand stitched by atelier artisans with years of experience in their craft. This expertise should be reflected in the stitching that creates every Hermes bag. Stitches should be evenly spaced, level along lines and finished neatly on the ends. If your bag is uneven and unfinished, there is a good chance it is fake.

Quality Leather

There are many reasons why Hermes bags are priced at the high point they are. One of those reasons is because of the quality leather that they're made from. Soft sided bags like the Evelyne style, should be soft to the touch and movable. If your soft sided bag is stiff and not smooth when opening, it is likely a dupe. Hard sided bags, like the Kelly, are going to be firmer. To tell if these are real, you can easily smell the difference. If the leather produces a plastic, chemical smell then you've got your answer. 

Lock & Key

If the style of your bag has keys, as many Hermes pieces do, the keys should be attached with leather as opposed to a separate metal ring. The leather strap is slipped through the keys and looped to attach to the bag. All locks and keys will also be stamped 'Hermes' with serial numbers on them.

Heavy Hardware

The metal used on any Hermes handbag should feel heavy in your hand. Dupes are often constructed using plastic that has the look of metal, but the real deal is much sturdier. These ensure your bag lasts longer and is more durable. Just remember-the heavier the better!

Watch our full Hermes video series here and click here to shop our selection of Hermes.

Unfortunately there are some really well-made and constructed counterfeits out there that are disrupting and destroying the industry. As a consumer, you need to educate yourself with as much information as you possibly can before purchasing. Knowing what to look for is half the battle… the other half, is knowing from whom you are buying. Make sure the seller has a 100% authenticity guarantee, experience to back up their product and, most importantly, a brick and mortar presence so you can speak to an actual person if you have a question. At Michael's, we have been authenticating and selling Hermes bags for 70 years so we are definitely sellers you can trust!