Michael Kors Handbags Authenticity
Michael Kors, a renowned fashion brand established by visionary designer Michael Kors in 1981, has captivated the world with its exceptional designs and impeccable craftsmanship. It's worth noting that Michael Kors has been honored with numerous awards throughout its history, including the prestigious CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year award in 1999 and the CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year award in 2003. These awards serve as a testament to the brand's undeniable talent and contribution to the fashion industry.
With counterfeit goods flooding the market, it is crucial to be able to authenticate your beloved Michael Kors handbags confidently. In this article, we will walk you through the key factors that will empower you to distinguish genuine Michael Kors pieces from imitations. Let's delve into the world of Michael Kors and protect your cherished pieces!
Logo and Branding
Indicators of Authenticity
The logo and branding of Michael Kors serve as significant indicators of authenticity. Over the years, the brand's visual identity has remained consistent, featuring two distinctive symbols synonymous with the fashion house.
The original Michael Kors logo, introduced in 1981, showcased a bold and confident monogram. Enclosed within a thick circular frame, the "MK" monogram consisted of two letters joined together, sharing a vertical bar. This iconic emblem continues to be used for the brand's second line, Michael by Michael Kors and Accessories, and its simplicity and strength make it a recognizable hallmark of authenticity.
In 2006, Michael Kors underwent a redesign that revitalized its visual identity. The new logo adopted a more traditional approach widely seen in the fashion industry. The monochrome logotype, written in all capital letters, employed a clean, straight sans-serif typeface with rounded shapes and distinct letter edges. The spacing between the two parts of the inscription created a sense of balance and lightness, further enhancing the brand's overall aesthetic.
When determining the authenticity of a Michael Kors handbag, paying attention to the logo and branding details can provide valuable insights. Authentic Michael Kors bags will feature the appropriate logo based on the specific line or collection, and any inconsistencies or variations in the logo design may indicate a counterfeit piece.
Hardware
A Reflection of Quality
Michael Kors' hardware exemplifies the brand's unwavering commitment to top-notch quality. Examining the hardware is one way to authenticate your Michael Kors bag.
Authentic Michael Kors hardware is weighty and boasts a flawless, mirror-like shine. You can feel the substantial weight in your hands, and the hardware should be free from any chips, flakes, or cracks. Crafted as one piece, the brand name is engraved clearly and finished impeccably, showcasing the brand's dedication to craftsmanship and luxury.
When inspecting a Michael Kors bag, pay close attention to the handles. Genuine bags feature slightly rectangular joint hardware with rounded edges. One side of the hardware often displays the expanded logo, adding that distinct Michael Kors touch. Authentic handles should feel solid and well-made, contributing to the overall quality and durability of the bag.
The zipper is another crucial component to examine. Authentic Michael Kors bags typically have brass-finished zippers with a long zipper pull. The pull will feature the expanded Michael Kors logo engraved with precision. In contrast, counterfeit bags may have rounded handles without any stamping, indicating a lack of attention to detail. The joint hardware on fake bags might also show inconsistencies in design and finish. Counterfeit zipper pulls often have a rounded logo made from plastic with a metallic finish, which can easily break or chip, revealing their inferior quality.
Stitching
Craftsmanship at Its Finest
Authentic Michael Kors bags boast impeccable stitching that showcases the brand's commitment to quality and meticulousness.
Genuine Michael Kors bags feature precise, even stitching, and are free from irregularities or loose threads. At the end of each sewn line, you'll often find a signature triangle stitch, which adds a subtle yet distinctive touch. Conversely, counterfeit bags tend to have inferior stitching that may be uneven and lack the triangle closure.
When examining the handle of an authentic Michael Kors tote, you'll notice it is crafted from premium leather and should not show any wrinkles around the foam tube. Leather tabs conceal the edges of the handle, creating a clean and polished appearance. In contrast, counterfeit bags may have exposed edge stitching or less attention to detail in covering the handle edges.
Take a close look at the stitching of the strap. On classic MK bags, the loop that holds the strap to the tote body is stitched above the seam, providing durability and strength. In counterfeit bags, these loops are often stitched into the seam, compromising the strap's durability and making it more prone to snapping. On other models, the straps are typically sewn neatly on the outside of the tote body, with precise stitches and tidy leather tabs concealing the handle ends.
Leather
Luxurious Materials, Exquisite Touch
Michael Kors is renowned for its luxurious leather offerings, exemplifying opulence and a commitment to quality. The brand carefully selects premium leathers such as pebbled, Saffiano, and smooth calf leather, ensuring a supple and sophisticated feel. In particular, the original Saffiano leather will have a slight gloss. These high-quality materials reflect the brand's dedication to providing a luxurious experience.
Authentic Michael Kors leather pieces showcase flawless craftsmanship without visible scratches or imperfections. The grain of the leather should be seamless and consistent, demonstrating the brand's unwavering devotion to excellence. Depending on the specific collection, Michael Kors leather may feature a subtle sheen or an elegant matte finish.
Canvas
Fashionable Designs Beyond Leather
While Michael Kors is primarily recognized for its leather creations, the brand also offers fashionable canvas designs, particularly for accessories and bags. The canvas frequently showcases the iconic MK monogram pattern, meticulously crafted and aligned throughout the piece. Authentic Michael Kors canvas pieces should feel robust and free from any signs of damage or cracking. The monogram pattern should appear uniform, with no inconsistencies or misalignments.
Manufacturing Tag and Serial Numbers
Valuable Authentication Markers
The manufacturing tag and serial numbers play a vital role in authenticating a Michael Kors handbag.
The manufacturing tag should display a 12-digit code containing essential details such as the serial number, style number, color, and place of manufacture. This code serves as a valuable reference point for conducting online research and comparing it to the specific bag you are examining. Clear, legible, and easily readable text and letters on the tag indicate the piece's authenticity.
The manufacturing tag should also feature a 4-digit number indicating the month and year of production. For example, a code like "0910" signifies that the purse was manufactured in September 2010. Preceding this code, two letters should represent the country of origin. Michael Kors commonly uses "CO" for Colombia and "PH" for the Philippines as standard country codes. These details provide valuable insights into the bag's authenticity and manufacturing history.
Authentic Michael Kors products are celebrated for their extraordinary quality, meticulous attention to detail, and timeless designs. As a discerning shopper or seller seeking to invest in luxury pieces, comprehending these key factors is crucial. By bearing this guide in mind, you can confidently navigate the world of Michael Kors, ensuring you acquire genuine luxury pieces while maximizing your style and investment.