Buying authentic Louis Vuitton handbags & avoiding the fakes!

Authentic Louis Vuitton handbags are purchased by customers from all over the world everyday!  This is a guide to help you find authentic Louis Vuitton bags at less than retail right here online.  Remember, there is an unbelievable amount of fakes- both online and off.  Louis Vuitton is doing what it can to remove some of them, but you need to protect yourself.  We can only help you weed out the more juicy obvious fakes… and will do our best to help you defend yourself against the “better” fakes- which are getting closer and closer to the look of the real thing.

Was it ever made by Louis Vuitton? This sounds like an easy one, but it’s not!  I am a Trading Assistant here on eBay and had an eBayer mail me a black vernis Louis Vuitton Houston to sell for her.  She’d bought it on eBay and I could still see the glowing feedback she’d left the seller for the $495 transaction.  One problem… Louis Vuitton has never done Vernis in black!  Try your bag on at a boutique, check the VUITTON website, or Elux, buy a catalog- etc, but make sure that the bag you are looking for was ever made by Louis Vuitton.  This is especially common in Multicolore bags- (there was never an Multicolor Backpack, Ellipse, Papillon etc), Cherry Blossom (no CB Speedy, Alma nor Cabas tote, Pegase), Cerises (no Papillon, Ellipse, Cabas Piano, Mezzo or Alto)  or vintage pieces.

Know its parts: What is it “supposed” to be lined in?  Should it have feet?  What does the base look like?  Should it have a d-ring inside?  Where?  Does it have a date code? Should it? Where?You can check the Vuitton website or your local boutique for this information… you can also purchase more detailed guides here on eBay that include such details…  For example:  If it is supposed to be lined in brown cotton canvas, it needs to be lined in brown cotton canvas.  There have never been brown suede linings- even in the vintage pieces.  Alcantara kind of looks like a suede-y material, but it isn’t suede and although is found in a greyish mushroomy color, it isn’t found in dark brown.  A Speedy of any age should have brown cotton canvas lining, so if you see any other lining- you know it isn’t authentic.

Know its Monogram placement: Louis Vuitton has been in production since 1854! Their style is classic, and quality- phenomenal! The traditional Monogram Toile canvas that is so popular today- had its beginnings in 1896. The monogram itself can give clues as to authenticity. Louis Vuitton is very careful about the way that the monogram is placed on any piece. Most of its styles are the same today as they were when they first came out- with a few exceptions. The actual LV monogram is usually (with the exception of some vintage pieces) symetrical from side to side in all monogram styles (traditional, Multicolore, Cerises, Mini mono, Vernis etc.) as you can see in this Louis Vuitton Speedy (notice where the LVs are in relation to the handles, sides, quatrefoils etc)

Watch the stitching: Louis Vuitton is very careful with it’s stitching. Stitching should be very even and regular. The same number of stitches will be found in similar locations on similar bags… for example the leather tab that the handle attaches onto on any size monogram Speedy bag will always have 5 regular, even stitches across the top.

Watch the age: While vintage pieces follow most of the rules that I discuss in this guide, there are definite differences in vintage pieces. For example, all French Company pieces vary slightly… so if you are looking at a French Company Vintage Vuitton piece, it may differ a bit. For instance, the FC Speedy 30 does NOT always have 5 stitches across the top, does NOT have upside down LVs on one side, and does NOT have Louis Vuitton embossed in the hardware. I’m currently writing a guide to help with these vintage gems- so watch out for it.

Made in Spain? Yes, while it is true that authentic Louis Vuitton is made in France, for over 25 years, Louis Vuitton has also produced bags in the USA, Spain, Germany and Italy. It is not true that a Louis Vuitton bag has to be marked “Made in France” to be authentic.

What about the “Upside Down LVs”? People email me all the time about this one… Some styles of authentic Louis Vuitton WILL have “upside down” LVs on the backside. The reason for this is that Louis Vuitton uses one continuous piece of leather that wraps around from the front to back, without a seam on the bottom- and so, the backside has upside down logos. This is true on the Speedy styles (except French Company Speedys), the Keepalls, Papillons, and some similar styles. Most monogram pieces (any piece with a separate piece of canvas or leather on the bottom) will have the LVs rightside up on both sides.

What about the patches? It is true that many older fake bags had patches on the interior and exterior that simply were never there on authentic versions. Fake exterior patch followed by fake interior patch.

The Fonts: Louis Vuitton uses a very specific font. I’ve noticed that a few counterfieters have begun to do a better job at knocking it off… so be careful, but current LV fonts will ALL look like the one on the patch above. Notice the VERY round “O”s. Here is an example of two straps- one authentic, one a “better” fake.

Good Luck!

I’ve been able to acquire a collection of authentic Louis Vuitton handbags that would not have been possible just 10 years ago (before eBay was born)… OK, I’m wiping away a tear ;) Really, though… eBay is an amazing resource- the ONLY way possible for any non-Louis Vuitton employee to get authentic Louis Vuitton at anything below retail.

We all hear the nightmare stories about the scammers out there, the unbelievable number of fakes online, the increasing quality of newer fakes etc. etc., but if you follow the guidelines in my Top Ten Tips… you really should be able to avoid most fakes. Please be careful. Protect yourself. Do your homework and Enjoy the hunt!!!

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The beauty spy: Shimmering make up

Yves Saint Laurent once said: "The most beautiful make-up on a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy."

I think Clarins had this quote in mind when they created my new favourite thing: Passion Face Palette, or to give it its rather more alluring name - Passion Palette Teint. It is a magical little compact face powder that you apply by lightly sweeping over the face and décolleté with a powder brush. I have always resisted face powder, because my granny uses it, but I am now a convert. Not only does it set your foundation, but it really gives you a much more polished look. And a good quality powder such as this one will reflect the light around you and diffuse it all over your face, which then really brightens up your skin. It lends it an almost luminous quality, making it look ultra-smooth.

With any powder you need a lightness of touch to ensure you don't get the caked look that my grandmother is so fond of.

I am utterly mad about this new Clarins product, especially in these pre-festive-season days when I seem to have events on every night. Not only do I practically glow in the dark, but the next day my somewhat jaded demeanour is easily rectified by a quick flick of my powder brush.

But even this little miracle worker can't do it all, so you should invest in something called Watt's Up! by Benefit. It is a highlighter that you can use on your cheeks, brow bones and your eyes. It is so smooth and easy to use and comes with its own little blender. It is a good, neutral colour that works all over, and a great little emergency product if you need an extra boost.

For your lips I suggest MAC's Dazzleglass Brilliant à Lèvres, which is a seriously shimmering range. My favourite is the Dressed to Dazzle, which is between nude and pink, with lots of glitter. Your lips really are dazzling in this and it is a great pick-me-up whenever you feel a tad dowdy.

For the cheeks I go for something a little less shimmery because I don't want to be mistaken for a Christmas tree. Sephora's Hydrating Powder Blush is a great option, as it hydrates as well as giving you a healthy glow. Also from Sephora is the Brightening & Smoothing Concealer with hyaluronic acid, which illuminates the skin, as well as plumping it up. Talk about useful multi-tasking. Altogether now: ready, steady, GLOW!

Warning on fake Christmas presents

Detectives in Airedale and North Bradford are warning people to ensure they are not exchanging their cash for fake goods this Christmas.

They say counterfeit hair straightness, designer clothes, watches, toys and CDs are among the items which commonly go on sale in the area either through markets or websites.

Officers are currently working with partners in trading standards to investigate offences and are advising that many fake products will not comply with UK health and safety regulations while some, such as counterfeit electrical items, could be dangerous.

Fake goods, most notably pirated DVDs, have often been reported for sale in the Bradford and Keighley area, and police have confiscated a number of discs over the past year.

In the latest investigation, detectives investigating counterfeiting, arrested a 53-year-old woman in Bradford on suspicion of offences.

A number of items of computer equipment were seized and the woman was bailed pending further enquiries.

Det Sgt Dave Marston of Airedale and North Bradford police said: “We have received intelligence about the alleged sale of counterfeit goods in Airedale and North Bradford and would advise residents to be careful of what they buy.

“As a rule, if something seems too good to be true it almost certainly will be and there are absolutely no guarantees about safety or quality with a lot of these products.

“Would you really be happy giving electrical equipment or toys which could be dangerous to a loved one?”

Designer bags are becoming a style statement

Ask any woman and she will tell you how delightful an experience it is for her to own an iconic designer bag. While women and their love for ‘it’ bags has been variously reported and debated upon, if you too, have ever  wondered what is it that makes a designer bag so uber expensive, then checking out the Gucci Artisan Corner will give some insight.

To celebrate its 90th anniversary, the renowned Italian designer label has launched a special initiative in Delhi and Mumbai. The celebrations to take place on December 10 in Delhi, will give a rare platform to all those who want to know what it takes to create an iconic bag.

The brand has flown in its most skilled artisans from Florentine, Italy who will be stationed at custom made workshops to assemble popular and timeless bags from the designer label. And, their customers can experience first hand, the meticulous steps that go in to create an iconic bag.

The craftsmen will be assembling some of the most iconic Gucci bags that can be personalised by hand embossed monogramming of your initials. Clients that make a purchase during this event will also receive a personal letter from the brand’s creative director, Frida Giannini, thanking them for their purchase.

The Mumbai chapter of the event that was held on December 2, saw fashion’s favourite icon and actor Sonam Kapoor at the celebrations. Kapoor says, “I’m glad that Gucci is going back to the archives and getting their classic designs out once again. I’m a self-confessed lover of vintage and I truly believe that nothing speaks better fashion than vintage. I’m quite excited that I now own my very own Stirrup with my initials SK embossed on it right in front of my eyes.”

Actor Monica Dogra says, “I found the Artisan Corner to be a wonderful concept, as often, someone like myself has a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, and the meticulous artistry that goes behind the creation of these handbags.”

The brand’s artisans and Artisan Corner display will be in the New Delhi store on December 10 for public viewing at Gucci Store, Emporio Mall, Vasant Kunj.

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Designer watches the Perfect Gift for just about any Celebration

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There are numerous tales concerning the initial wristwatch. Breguet has recorded in its ledgers a pocket watch offered to the Queen of Naples in 1810, which fundamentally was a ladies’ tiny pocket watch on a steel chain. There also are anecdotal reviews of individuals in the mid-19th century putting on pocket watches other than in their pockets, including on canes, rings even connected to some bracelet.

The ensuing decades witnessed further evolution of the wristwatch. In the 1920s, better sealed cases were developed, such as kinds that had been deemed as h2o and dirt proof. Shock resistant balance mechanisms were created. These days, a wristwatch is considered as much of the status symbol as a device to tell time.

Women’s Crystal watches and Women’s Bracelet watches are in high fashion. From 1810 to this current day, stunning watches from FOSSIL WATCHES, Seiko watches, Michael Kors watches and Fossil watches are elegant and affordable and make a most appropriate present. It is once more that point of the year to take a look at giving a particular present, the long lasting gift that actually gives. It provides time, helps us arrange our days and our weeks. A moment now is greater than a moment later on.

In an age when cellular phones and digital pagers show little quartz clocks, the mechanical wristwatch has gradually become much less of an object of purpose and far more a piece of contemporary tradition. Several of the most dependable time pieces and also the most long lasting are obtainable from DiscountWatchStore. They are effortlessly accessible with the click of a mouse. The G Shock, Invicta, Luminox and Casio watches to mention but a few can be yours tomorrow.

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DiscountWatchStore carries a wide variety of best designer brand name wristwatches at reasonably priced rates. Go to us DiscountWatchStore. We offer a lowest price guarantee on all of our watches. You’ll not be disappointed.

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Are Designer Watches All They Make Out to become – replica rolex watches

A short while back there was a creating pattern within the design whole globe for view earning. Normal view producers are actually becoming pushed in the market by contemporary and fashionable watches by numerous the biggest names within the vogue world.

Much more and much more, we are viewing attire designers transfer their style and design abilities checked out inside the runways of Paris and Milan on in the direction of the wrists of every day individuals these days. The big design houses have skilled a marketplace present marketplace for your well-liked necessity for a lot of people for becoming branded with their extremely personal labels.

This twelve months by your self has noticed American rap have on giants Marc Ecko be a part of the battle for consumer wrist space, bringing to a whole new diploma. Famous female jeans brand name title Skip Sixty may also be on the point of be considered a a part of the now significant ranks of Emporio Armani, D&G, Guess and DKNY to title but a few in launching a line of designer watches. These massive brand name title names and designer vogue houses are bringing haute couture and an increased design on the earth of watches.

With such massive manufacturer names becoming known in the view industry, the shopper is spoilt for choice when it comes to designer watches. One view is no longer enough for all occasions; designer makes like D&G and Emporio Armani are generating stylish watches accessible to all.

The issue surrounding the real question of designer watches is one of quality. Are we sacrificing old trend quality and durability for your flashy title?

Numerous enormous design houses actually license their manufacturer title out into the most well respected view producers to work in partnership. Well controlled licensing has allowed design houses like DKNY and D&G to enter the view marketplace place place without loosing their integrity as a top designer of haute couture goods, and therefore maintaining the highest quality of watches available.

The licensing agreement between Fossil and Giorgio Armani’s Emporio Armani brand name title is widely accredited as one in the most successful of all licensing agreements in the view industry. Fossil Inc has since attained licensing agreements with the likes of DKNY, Diesel and Burberry because in the great success that they have had with the Emporio Armani line of watches. Fossil have created designer watches for these makes that are not only fashionable and fashionable but will also be well manufactured and come with fantastic guarantees that prove that the products are fit to put on the designer names such as DKNY and Emporio Armani.

Fossil are not on your personal inside the creation of designer watches though licensing. Over the past seven years, one inside the most important sensations continues to become that of D&G timepiece range, creating iconic watches like the Jaclyn, a view that made accessible and wanted by women across the world.

The licensing with the D&G brand name title to Italy’s greatest, most respected view manufacturer Binda Group has noticed the D&G brand name title grow into a planet famous view label. This agreement has viewed consumers build an in inexhaustible thirst for D&G watches.

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Though tightly controlled replica rolex watches, the licensing of these massive designer names has created a new area of interest during the view sector place. The quality on the build of these watches is at the cornerstone of this new marketplace place. With numerous in the classic makes now trying to force their way into this present marketplace be sure that designer watches are here to stay. Buying a designer view is just as safe as buying a Rotary or a Seiko view yet you now have design that would never previously be thought of until the designer names brought their abilities with the planet of designer watches.

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Christmas Alert: Fake Designer Gifts Flood British Ports

Major airports and ports in Britain are flooded with counterfeits of major designer brands from China and other Asian countries ahead of Christmas, authorities say.

The UK Border Agency counterfeit team at Heathrow is making huge seizures of fake products every day at the airport. According to them, 70 percent of the fake products are coming from China. Products from India, Thailand and Turkey are also flooding the ports, the Daily Mail has reported.

"This has been our busiest year yet. We are making seizures every day and across a huge range of goods," the Daily Mail has quoted Peter Herron, member of the Border Agency counterfeit team in Heathrow, as saying.

The urge to go bargain-hunting in hard times encourages the flow of fake products into the country. And it is very difficult for  consumers to tell the fake product from the original.

The seized items include fakes of bracelets from Links of London, Mont Blanc fountain pens, Cath Kidston handbags, UGG boots, make-up from fashionable brands such as Mac and Bobbi Brown and Jo Malone scented candles. There are Rolex watches and all the latest gizmos such as the iPad 2 and iPhone 4 among the items seized over the past couple of weeks at the Heathrow airport.

Children's favourites like Hello Kitty jewellery boxes, the latest Nintendo DS, soft toys from TV show In The Night Garden, Smurfs and familiar faces from Thomas the Tank Engine also make an entry through the ports.

In the past few days, the counterfeit team at the Heathrow has seized two consignments of fake Dr Dre headphones estimated to be worth more than £38,000. Another big haul at Southampton docks found 45,000 pairs of fake Ugg boots which is estimated to be worth millions of pounds, the newspaper has reported.

There are also incidents of these fake products featuring in popular online websites like eBay and Amazon. A study by Which? magazine found out that 23 per cent of goods bought from Web sites, including online giants Amazon and eBay, were not genuine and there were no indications that these companies would be aware, the Daily Mail has reported.

According to the survey by Which?, one in 10 people have bought counterfeit products without realizing it. Statistics from the Intellectual Property Office has revealed that 7 percent of all goods sold in Britain are believed to be counterfeit, the newspaper report has pointed out.

Majority of these products are not made according to the EU standards and pose serious health problems to the people. Many of these products are not made in a sterile environment and often contain banned ingredients.

Here is the list of some of the fake items in branded labels that can be found in the shopping centers across the country, according to Christine Heemskerk, lead officer in consumer and product safety for the Trading Standards Institute.

Hello Kitty jewellery Box: Though it is very popular with preteen girls, the counterfeit of the product could cause serious health issues. "It is likely the jewellery box is made using phthalates, which means there are health concerns," Heemskerk told the Daily Mail.

"The headphones probably won't have the right volume controls and could damage young ears. The lamp is a fire risk - the shade could melt - and the wiring is suspect," she added.

Dr Dre headphones: Fake copies of the designer headphones are abundant in the market which may not even last for Boxing Day, Grant Miller, senior detection manager of the freight division at Heathrow, told the Daily Mail.

Links of London friendship bracelet: It may not be made from sterling silver like the originals and may contain banned metals which could cause rash, warned Heemskerk, according to the Daily Mail.

Precious Limited Edition Gift Set: The hair straightener and hair dryer have not been tested for EU standards, warned Heemskerk.

There are also fake copies of Walt Disney complete DVD, Cath Kidston Day bag, UGG Australia boots, Bobbi Brown make-up brush which are not made according to the safety standards, warn the experts.