It can be tricky to tell if a Kipling bag is real or fake. I’ve been duped a few times in my day and I want to help you avoid making the same mistakes. Here are some tips to make sure your Kipling bag is real.
First of all, take a good look at the exterior of the bag—the fabric, threading, shoulder straps, and all the other components that make up the bag. A real Kipling bag will look consistent throughout, with no obvious incompleteness or clumping of materials. Also, make sure all seams are tight and secure.
The interior of the bag should also be examined. A real Kipling bag will usually have a light grey fabric lining, and the bag itself should be strong and fit together perfectly. Check the pockets for smoothness and that they are taut when you move the bag around.
Old models of them will come with a tag sewn on the inside of the bag. The typography should be consistent and look professionally made. Kipling bags usually also come with a key ring with a croc charm. The keychain should also be a smooth and consistent piece, with no obvious roughness or signs of broken molding.
Now that you’ve inspected the bag, it’s time to get online and do some research. Database websites such as Kipling’s official website or eBay will have information on which model your bag is and what it should look like. Doing some homework here will help you to easily spot any discrepancies with your bag.
Not to mention, now is the time to think about price. A signature Kipling bag doesn’t come cheap and if you pick one up for a heavily discounted price, chances are it’s fake. Be weary of sweet deals that seem too good to be true, and don’t be afraid to consult with someone who has experience with brand-name bags.
Once you’ve done your research and inspected your bag, it’s time to think about the seller. Look out for suspicious reviews, and always make sure payment is through a secure platform such as PayPal. If someone is trying to dodge the system by using cash, it’s a huge red flag.
Finally, think about the returns policy. Always make sure it’s there, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if anything doesn’t seem quite right. That way, should you have bought a fake, you at least have the option of sending it back for a refund.
Overall, it’s hard to tell if a Kipling bag is real or a fake, but when it comes to investing in one of these high-end items, it’s always best to be prepared, do your research, and know what you should be looking for. Trust me, one fake bag is all it takes to learn how to tell a real one apart.