How to Tell If Your Valentino Garavani Bag is Authentic or a Designer Dupe

authentic versus fake valentino garavani roman stud top handle bag in yellow by FASHIONPHILE

At FASHIONPHILE, distinguishing between an authentic bag and a dupe requires a meticulous eye and a commitment to the science behind ultra-luxury authentication.

 

Each fake is unique in its own way. However, our master authenticators easily spot replica designer bags, dupes, and even what they humorously call “funny fakes,” like this counterfeit Valentino Garavani handbag. While our experts usually notice even the tiniest differences, sometimes the red flags are glaringly obvious. Let’s explore the flaws in this fake Valentino Garavani bag, which aims to offer you not only a peek into our authentication process and how to tell if a bag is authentic, but also valuable insights for making wise choices when investing in authentic designer handbags.

Authenticating the Valentino Garavani Roman Stud Top Handle Bag

It took only a quick glance at this fake bag for our master authenticators to spot issues. In our authentication process, one crucial step is checking the overall design and construction. You can tell this fake Valentino Garavani bag visibly struggles to stand on its own, appearing slouchy and misshapen. Unlike a genuine pre-loved bag that might display signs of wear but retains its design and house codes, the fake bag sets off alarms immediately.  

authentic versus fake valentino garavani roman stud top handle bag in yellow by FASHIONPHILE
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Authentic
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Fake

The absence of proper proportions and key design features that align with Valentino Garavani house codes, along with incorrect leather in the wrong color (a glaring banana yellow instead of a soft butter yellow for this style), immediately grabbed our exeperts’ attention. Loose construction along the edges is another significant red flag, as Valentino Garavani is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail. The irregular stitching quality further reinforces our team’s suspicion.

image of the bottom of an authentic valentino garavani bag showing the stitching and placement of the hardware by FASHIONPHILE
Authentic
image of the bottom of a fake valentino garavani bag showing the stitching and placement of the hardware by FASHIONPHILE
Fake

Authenticating Valentino Garavani Hardware

Hardware on genuine luxury bags is a work of art. On authentic Valentino Garavani bags, the Rockstuds and Roman Studs are iconic. However, the same cannot be said for the fake Roman Studs.  The hardware on the fake bag not only sports the wrong color but also gives off a cheap look due to an overly polished finish. The fake metal plate inside is attached to the bag using Phillips screws, which is a clear departure from the norm in ultra-luxury bags. Even more obvious, the fake Valentino Garavani bag exhibits poor engravings, confirming its lack of craftsmanship and integrity – always a clear sign of counterfeit production. Respectfully, you can’t expect more from such dishonest practices.

close up image of a fake valentino garavani logo engraving plate on the inside using phillips screws by FASHIONPHILE
Fake
image of authentic valentino garavani roman stud hardware by FASHIONPHILE
Authentic
image of fake valentino garavani roman stud hardware by FASHIONPHILE
Fake

Authenticating the Inside of Valentino Garavani Bags

Aside from looking at the overall construction and peeking closely at the hardware, a careful look inside can unveil the real identity of a bag. In this example, the fake bag not only has the lining with the wrong color but misses the mark in several other aspects. As our master authenticators pointed out, this fake bag has the wrong designer ID, font style, and foiling technique. Let the authentic versus fake photos below speak for themselves. 

close up of authentic valentino garavani interior brand foil stamp by FASHIONPHILE
Authentic
close up of fake valentino garavani interior brand foil stamp by FASHIONPHILE
Fake

All in all our brand experts can unmask the fakes in their sleep. Based on the obvious signs from this counterfeit Valentino Garavani bag, it’s clear it’s a replica based on numerous flaws and inconsistencies. The hardware, exterior construction, and interior details all pointed to a lack of authenticity. When shopping for ultra-luxury designer bags, protect yourself and choose to buy authentic!

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: Authentic vs. Fake Valentino Garavani Roman Stud Top Handle Bag

For more authenticity lessons and insights into our accredited authentication process, visit our authenticity page. Making informed choices ensures you invest in genuine luxury, and with our expert guidance, you’ll confidently navigate the world of designer handbags without falling for fakes.