When it comes to Birkin bags, I am always so excited and can never seem to pick just one! But I also don’t want to pick the wrong one, especially when it comes to choosing between a real Birkin bag and a replica. There are plenty of high-quality replicas out there, but sometimes these can be hard to differentiate from the real deal. I’m here to tell you that there are a few things to look out for to help you figure out whether it’s a Birkin bag replica or the genuine article!
To start, you’ll want to take a close look at the material the bag is made out of. Many replicas use cheaper quality leather which can be identified by feeling for a soft and smooth texture, rather than a grainy one. Soft leather will be much slicker and smoother, whereas genuine leather will definitely have its own unique texture.
Similarly, you’ll want to pay close attention to the stitching and the overall workmanship of the bag. A replica bag will have sloppy stitching, the parts won’t line up, and the lines will be wider than they should. On the flip side, a genuine Birkin bag will be stitched tighter, with precise and even stitches. In addition, the zippers should open and close effortlessly and without any catching or jamming.
What’s more, the hardware should look and feel substantial and sturdy. You’ll often find counterfeit Birkins with light gold or brass hardware, and this a clear indication that it’s a replica. Authentic Birkins usually have solid brass or palladium-plated bolt hardware in either silver or gold.
Another way to discern if a bag is a replica is to look at the logo, as the original Birkin bags have the signature ‘Hermès’ located beneath the oval logo. Also, check for the trademark ‘HERMES PARIS’ as this will only appear on a genuine Birkin.
In addition, the bottom of the bag should be covered in a canvas material that softens the contact with the leather portion of the bag. Further, the dust bag provided with the bag should be silk, and it should not have a print, as this is something Hermès doesn’t do for their dust bags.
Lastly, it’s really easy to tell if a bag is a replica if it’s being sold for an unbelievable bargain. Genuine Birkins always go for outrageous prices, so if it doesn’t match up with what you’d expect to pay for an original one, it’s probably a fake.
The best way to ensure the bag is a real Hermès Birkin is to buy it from a reputable retailer and look for guarantees that they are selling the real thing. Research the seller before you commit and check to see if anyone else has had any good or bad experiences with them. That way you know you’re getting the real deal.
But do keep in mind, even after going through all these steps, there’s still no guarantee that you’re not going to end up with a replica. You have to use your best judgement and take a look at the stitching, the hardware and the materials and go by what looks to be the best quality.
If you’re buying from an online market place, it’s best that you ask for pictures of the bag from all angles and read through the item’s description carefully. You should also ask the seller to provide a certificate of authenticity if they can, that way you know exactly what you’re getting.
Lastly, you should consider buying a bag with a warranty. That way, if anything goes wrong, you know you’re covered. It’ll be well worth the peace of mind you get knowing you won’t end up with a replica.
When looking for a Birkin bag, there are a few things you can do to make sure you get the genuine article. It’s important to research the retailer and look for guarantees that they will sell you the real thing. Also, take a look at the material, hardware and level of workmanship so you can tell the difference between a replica and a genuine Birkin bag. And if you’re still worried, buying a bag with a warranty will give you the peace of mind that you’ve made the right choice.