Spotting a fake MCM bag isn’t always easy but, with a few key steps, you can become an expert at authenticating them. I’ve been duped too many times, so I want to share the tips I’ve learned to help others avoid obtaining counterfeit bags.
First off, the genuine MCM bags are made with top-quality materials that feel pliable yet sturdy. Fake ones usually feel improperly constructed, making them appear too small or overly large. MCM logo stamps also tend to show up in assorted colors on an authentic bag, while on a fake the letters are often monochromatic. The finish on the snap and zippers tend to look a little faulty or dull, and the print has to be exact. I’ve noticed that the lettering on MCM’s signature “Cognac Visetos” print is oftentimes blurred on fakes, which is worth a double-check.
When in doubt, take a close look at the label inside the bag. On a real one, they usually feature a tan or grey felt lining and have dense stitching. Of course, if it’s made of leather, you should check for that certain smell that it’s famous for. Moreover, knockoffs might not provide a serial number, or the one on the bag might be a recycled number from a previous style of the bag.
Always go for buying an MCM bag from the manufacturer’s official outlet or website to avoid counterfeits. They often feature small details like brightness of colors that copies tend to lack. Authentic MCM bags also tend to cost more, so if a tempered price comes up, it should be a major warning sign.
But at the end of the day, the best way to tell if a bag is real or fake is to educate yourself on the brand and pay close attention to the specific details. Fake bags tend to look almost similar but never the same. If you doubt the bag’s authenticity, it’s best to pass. More often than not, it is a telltale sign that the product is not genuine.
An extra layer of precaution can be following official MCM accounts online. Keep an eye on their website or get a closer examination of the product from an expert. This would also help to make sure you get the real deal.
My last advice is to check the product reviews from their dedicated website or from other sources. If the brand is reliable itself, most of the reviews should be positive. So, make sure to read both the positive and negative reviews and double-check the authenticity of the bag before buying it.
Additionally, always be careful when purchasing pre-owned MCM bags from other sources. Feel free to ask the seller plenty of questions about the bag’s condition and authentication. If the seller doesn’t seem to be knowledgeable or doesn’t have the authentication cards, chances are it’s a fake.
In a nutshell, authenticating an MCM bag accurately is a combination of knowledge and caution. It should not be taken lightly as a small mistake can cost you a fortune. That’s why I pay a lot of attention to bags I buy and don’t just take the seller’s word for it. After all, only a real MCM is good enough!