Q&A for How to Spot a Fake Coach Bag

Coach bags are known for their thick, buttery cuts of leather that withstand the test of time. The thick stitching used to construct Coach bags helps them maintain their durability and gives an elevated, high-end look to their bags. The C logo print is also a highly recognized feature that is incorporated into Coach bag designs in many different ways, both inside and outside the bags.

Many (indeed most) authentic Coach bags are made in China. To determine authenticity of the bag, you need to look at all of the indicators discussed in the article above, not just where the bag has been made.

Not all real Coach purses have a serial number. Some examples of Coach purses that may not have a serial number include: the clutch, swingpack, and mini. However, most Coach purses will have a serial number, so if it’s not one of the exceptions, then the bag should carry this identifier.

It is quite possible for a Coach bag made in the Philippines to be authentic; some Coach bags and purses are made in the Philippines for the company. To identify the authenticity or otherwise, check all of the indicators outlined in this article.

A Coach bag can be cleaned at home, usually by using Coach cleaner. Details for cleaning Coach bags and purses can be found here: How to Clean a Coach Purse .

The YKK zipper mark is not present on all Coach bags and purses. Some Coach bags may have YKK zippers, while other Coach bags may have no marks on the zippers or a different brand name mark. This alone is not definitive of the authenticity or otherwise of a Coach bag or purse; check for other official identifiers before deciding on the bag's provenance.

File a complaint with the company you bought from. Also, always research before buying unless you know what you're really getting.

It depends on the style of the bag you purchased, as some bags like the clutch and mini do not come with serial numbers. Also, Coach does make some of their bags in China, so this does not automatically make it a fake.

It depends on the appearance of the serial number. If it is just stamped or inked onto the inside of the bag, then it is most likely fake. However, if the serial number is embossed onto the Coach Creed, it is more likely to be real. Try checking the make/model of your bag and serial number against authentic bags online.

They can be made anywhere. Some look like infinity symbols or have them all over the bag. Re-read the summary to compare. If any of your friends have them, make sure to ask nicely if you can compare.

You can call Coach directly, or search for the number on Google instead. If you do an image search and it's authentic, you should find a number of bags like the one you intend to purchase. You can use this as a starting point for comparison to see if your bag is real.

There is no number to call to verify authenticity. Coach also is not allowed to verify the authenticity of bags. If you purchase from an authorized retailer, they’re obviously authentic. The only way around this is to get the style number and call the store to see if the item is available. It is likely they will look it up and see if it is. If it’s not correct, they will tell you.

Visit a Coach store to have them send it in for repair. Repairs are costly, so get a quote first, because it may be more beneficial to purchase a new bag. They may only send small, easy-to-do parts if available, such as a turn lock part.