My best friend is obsessed with Issey Miyake Bao Bao bags and has been wanting one for a while now, so when I stumbled across a (seemingly) good deal on one, I knew she would love it! But before committing to the purchase, I wanted to do some research on potential fakes and replicas that could be out there. After spending some time going through various articles and reviews, I must say I was really surprised at all the information – both good and bad – that was out there.
The first thing that stuck out to me was how hard it can be to determine if a Bao Bao bag is a fake or a genuine article. Genuine Issey Miyake products typically cost an arm and a leg, so it’s understandable why people would want to buy a replica or fake version that looks just as good but costs much less. Unfortunately, the clues telling a fake from genuine are often subtle and, for the most part, can only be seen up close and in person.
Things like the JR logo displayed on the bag, the thickness of the material, the stitching, and the hardware are all aspects of the bag that can give away it’s authenticity or lack thereof. Additionally, fake bags tend to have a blander design due to duplication problems; genuine bags have unique patterns that can act as further proof of their origin. Lastly, it is worth noting that most genuine bags are made in Japan, whereas replicas are often produced in other countries. All this information was incredibly useful in helping me decide if that discounted Bao Bao bag was a legitimate find, or too good to be true.
Luckily, through some serious sleuthing, I was able to determine it was a real Bao Bao bag, and have since gifted it to my friend! She was thrilled and over the moon with happiness when I handed it over, which in turn, made me feel really good about myself. In the end, though, it was a great reminder from just how easy it could be to become victim to knock-off Issey Miyake products. Do your homework, and always keep these tips in mind before you purchase any designer items!
The consequences of buying a knock-off Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag can be a bit of a headache. Sure, it may look like the real deal, but quality-wise, there can be a drastic difference. It’s not always a case of getting what you pay for, as false replicas can still cost a pretty penny. When it comes to Issey Miyake Bao Bao bags though, investing in an original piece is definitely the way to go.
To start, brands that produce genuine designer goods will typically have better quality control and assurance compared to those offering replicas or fakes. While a true Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag may be expensive, it is also an investment – it is made with the most luxurious materials and is guaranteed to last. Genuine items will also (usually) come with a warranty.
The end result of having an Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag in your collection is simple: something that is timeless, stylish, and classic – the perfect accessory for any look. From the moment it is unveiled, you can feel the difference in quality. You know the bag was made with precision and craftsmanship: it has a sturdy structure, soft but strong material, and high-quality hardware. Plus, the reputation of the brand is worth considering; if you carry a real Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag then you will definitely look and feel like royalty.
Even shopping for genuine Issey Miyake products online can be tricky, and not risk-free. To ensure you are getting the real thing, it is recommended that you purchase from reputable websites that specialise in genuine products, such as Issey Miyake’s own website. This way you can guarantee the products are 100% authentic.
Finally, condition is also a key factor to consider when shopping for Issey Miyake. When ordering online, read product descriptions in detail and check out multiple photos of the item before deciding. If you are shopping in person, then inspect the bag in detail, paying close attention to signs of wear and tear, and be sure to ask as many questions as you can get answered. It’s important to be smart when it comes to purchasing any Issey Miyake items, regardless if it’s a Bao Bao bag, a pair of pants, or a perfume bottle.
Inevitably, the most important thing is to trust your judgement. If something seems off, don’t be afraid to walk away from the deal. Another helpful tip is to talk to a friendly salesperson: even if they don’t specialize in Issey Miyake, they might be able to help you differentiate between real and fake designer goods.
Although I can’t guarantee my approach will work for everyone, I can say beyond a doubt that I am thankful for the knowledge I have gained from the experience. In the end, I am happy I made the right decision for my best friend, and I’m sure I will benefit from this knowledge in the future.
Since then, I’ve been more careful when buying Issey Miyake items; when shopping online I tend to read through the website reviews thoroughly, and pay special attention to air tight return policies. I also make sure to check shipping and delivery information: poor delivery could be another red flag alerting me of potential fakes. Additionally, most sites will list their payment options: I’m guessing the more options the better, as this is a relatively good indication of trustworthiness.
All in all, I’ve gained a better understanding of the tell-tale signs of a genuine Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag. Whilst this is obviously helpful when it comes to buying my own items, I also find it rather satisfying being able to distinguish between real and fake on my own. I’ve even started giving small tidbits of advice to friends and family when they go to buy designer items, or share stories of when they almost purchased a fake.
Not to mention, I’m now far less hesitant when it comes to buying discounted designer goods. Let’s face it, it’s tempting to buy them – who wouldn’t want to save a bit of cash here and there! That’s why, although I still pay close attention to the reviews and product descriptions, I no longer immediately distrust a good deal. In reality, Genuine items can often be found discounted, so a deep discount on a Issey Miyake Bao Bao bag doesn’t always mean it’s a replica!
Furthermore, by getting creative when shopping around, I often find I can get huge bargains on designer items. Not only is it great for my wallet, but also for my conscience – now I know that I have actively helped prevent the circulation of counterfeit goods in the market.
Whether I’m buying a Bao Bao bag, or any Issey Miyake item for that matter, the key is to always stay vigilant and alert. Be sure to check the item in person for subtle clues, and don’t be afraid to ask the right questions. Don’t forget to use the internet to check comparisons, and research the market for up-to-date pricing information. Above all, trust your gut feeling – if something seems off, then you are better off not taking a risk and walking away.