You'll learn the distinctive hallmarks of true Chanel quality , from serial stickers to leather and stitch count. Be ready to dive into the essential authenticity checks that will help you determine if your Chanel is an original.

If you want to buy vintage designer goods, read our guide on what you should consider before taking the plunge.

Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos."X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker. Gold speckles appear throughout sticker.

The location of the serial sticker can vary depending on the model of the bag; they can be found either on a leather tag or in the bag’s lining.

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Learn about Chanel leathers and look for exceptional quality. Only a fake Chanel bag will consist of substandard materials.

) The date codes that begin with a single digit indicating the year are seven digits long. Those with the first two digits indicating the year are eight digits long. If your bag has a date code with nine digits, it is a fake. The chart below lists the date codes by year. Chanel Date Code Chart

Chanel bag hardware is challenging to replicate, with most replicas lacking the attention to detail that you find in genuine products. Once you know what you’re looking for in the hardware, you can easily separate copyright items.

 Caution: If you are authenticating a used Chanel are vintage Chanel bags a good investment bag that uses a chip technology instead of hologram (early year 2021 and newer) skip to authentication step 2 and then follow detailed steps later in the article that describe how to authenticate newer Chanel bags with NFC chip technology.

Check the back of the lock for brand stamping, which can indicate where the bag was made—France or Italy. The font should be legible, pristine, and beautifully embossed without any raised areas or leaks.

Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos."X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker. Gold speckles appear throughout sticker.

Authentic logo locks are designed with equal width , flat edges to ensure a consistent and precise appearance.

Few accessories in the world of fashion are as universally recognized and celebrated as the Chanel Flap Bag. First introduced in 1955 by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, this iconic handbag revolutionized women’s fashion by combining elegance with practicality.

Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos."X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker. Gold speckles appear throughout sticker.