Real or fake? How to authenticate your Prada

You’ve purchased a brand new or pre-loved Prada handbag but you’re skeptical of its authenticity.

In this article, we have listed a few features that you should look out for when telling a fake Prada handbag from an authentic one!

Point 1: Check the logo

Be it the Saffiano Lux Tote, the Jacquard Bag, or the Nylon Backpack, the Prada logo will always be a constant in the House’s designs. Hence, when authenticating a Prada bag, it should always be one of the first few elements you examine.

An authentic Prada logo should have a notch between the right leg of the letter ‘R’ and the rest of the letter. The letter ‘A’ extends past the top of the letter with an angled cap and its right leg is always thicker than its left.

The Prada logo can be spotted in many places such as the interior and exterior of the bag, hardware (zippers, bottom studs), authenticity cards and dust bags. It is always important to check that all logos, except those on the Prada fabric lining, feature the characteristics mentioned.

However, from vintage to current models being produced, Prada’s logo has many inconsistencies. For example, it is not always the case that the triangle plaque would feature the notch between the right leg of the letter ‘R’ and the rest of its body. Although the logo is an important element to take note of, it should not be the only determining factor of authenticity. It is always important to use a combination of other factors, that will be mentioned below, to determine the authenticity of your Prada bag.

Point 2: Check the triangle plaque

Many handbags from Prada feature the triangle plaque. If so, these triangle plaques should always be securely attached to the bag and of the same colour as the body of the bag. The triangle plaque should be rounded in its corners and not sharp. In addition, the plaque should also mention these three things: Prada, Milano and Dal 1913. Sometimes, counterfeits would feature the word “Milan” instead of “Milano”.

Point 3: Check the interior tag or plaque

For many designs, the interior would feature a securely attached rectangular plaque with the Prada logo and the word “MILANO” (seen under Point 1) or the logo and the phrase “MADE IN ITALY” or even all three; the logo, the word “MILANO” and the phrase “MADE IN ITALY”.

In other instances, a leather tag would be found instead and it should be stitched securely and printed or embossed with the brand logo, “Milano” and “Dal 1913”. If you are purchasing a pre-owned handbag, it is normal for the lettering to have faded.

As always, the above is just a general rule and there are always exceptions.

Point 4: Check the hardware

Authentic Prada handbags should always feature good quality hardware and when applicable, clear and consistent brand engraving. The colour of hardware used should also be consistent throughout the handbag (either gold or silver). When purchasing a pre-owned Prada handbag, it is normal for the hardware to be tarnished.

 

Most authentic Prada items also use RIRI or Lampo branded zippers. While fakes for these zipper brands exist as well, the engravings on such zippers are usually poorly made or might not even contain any engravings.

Point 5: Check the top stitching

The top stitching should always be neat, even, and slightly angled. Most counterfeits use a normal straight stitch. Note that even for authentic Prada handbags, the colour of stitching does not always match the body of the bag.

Point 6: Check the inner lining  

For many of Prada’s handbags, the interior would feature a fabric that is decorated with the Prada logo and the rope chain motif. If not, the interior would be made of genuine leather.

For the fabric lining, it is important to check that every other line features the Prada logo flipped upside down. For instance, the first Prada logo line should be upright, followed by the rope chain motif and then the Prada logo line flipped upside down. The Prada logos on the fabric lining should not feature an ‘R’ that has a curved notch and an ‘A’ that overhangs as seen in the normal Prada logo. Counterfeiters often get this wrong.

Point 7: Check the factory tag

The factory tag can be found stitched onto the interior of a Prada bag. It is a small white tag printed with 1 to 3 numbers in black.

Point 8: Check the packaging

If you are purchasing a brand new Prada handbag with wrapped handles, it is important to ensure that the handles are wrapped in paper and not plastic. Brand new Prada handbags should also come with an authenticity card and a black-coloured cardboard product card.

The authenticity card should be white and made of plastic. It should feature the Prada logo and the phrases “Authenticity Certificate Card” in Italian and then in English on its front.

Ultimately, if it is too good to be true, it probably is. It’s always important to trust your instincts and deal with a reliable luxury dealer. Here at EcoRing Singapore, our experienced appraisers have dealt with a wide variety of items from various luxury brands. From Prada handbags, to Hermes bag charms, all luxury items are carefully examined before being bought in and sold.