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louis vuitton sac plat bag
Louis Vuitton has been showing off the Louis Vuitton Sac Plat bag in their display windows all over the world.

In spite of the non-flattery name in French: Flat bag, Louis Vuitton Sac Plat bag seems like a great bag to have, as Louis Vuitton website put it:

“Elegant lines combined with Monogram canvas to create the timeless Sac Plat. Perfect for business or leisure, it fits neatly into luggage so it is ready for use at any stylish destination.“



Angelina Jolie demonstrated just that. She’s taken the Louis Vuitton Sac Plat bag everywhere in Europe.

Admittedly Angelina is one of these genetically blessed people, who would probably look good in anything. But out of all the available Louis Vuitton models, it seems that she’s particularly fond of this Louis Vuitton Sac Plat bag. Some people might think Louis Vuitton Sac Plat is more like a serious business bag due to the shape and the size (it’s big enough for a good sized laptop). But Angelina does it better.

In London (photo from Internet)

louis vuitton sact plat

In Melta (photo from Internet)

louis vuitton sac plat

Dressy – With Brad in France: (photo from Internet)

louis vuitton sac plat bagBusiness like, visiting visiting Ramstein Air Base, Germany (photo from Internet)

louis vuitton sac plat

And more:(photo from Internet)

louis vuitton sac plat bag

I have a funny feeling that Angelina was gifted her Louis Vuitton Sac Plat bag but let’s say you like her style and wanted to get one as well.

 Vintage VS. Modern Louis Vuitton Sac Plat.

Sac Plat is a classic Louis Vuitton model that has been around for decades. It has one spacious interior, large opening  for easy access, dual rolled leather handles and washable lining.  Over the years Louis Vuitton has made some changes to the interior of Sac Plat, mainly in 3 areas:

  • Vintage Louis Vuitton sac plat bags don’t have brass key ring inside. Each of the modern LV sac plat bags has 1 brass keying attached on a little leather tag inside the bag.
  • Vintage LV sac plat bags have no wall pockets inside. Modern sac plat bags have 2 interior wall pockets on one side, one smaller, one larger.



louis vuitton sac plat bag-001

Vintage Louis Vuitton Sac Plat Interior, 80s & 90s – no pocket inside

 

louis-vuitton-sac-plat-1112-1-of-91-300x300

Modern Sac Plat Interior – After 2000


  • Date code location:

1980s LV Sac Plat – the date code is horizontally aligned to the top rim:

louis vuitton sac plat1990s LV Sac Plat- the date code is parallel to the side seam:

louis vuitton sac plat bag

From 2000’ onwards, the date code is still parallel to the side seam but closer the to top corner of the bag:

louis-vuitton-sac-plat-1112-3-of-91-300x300

More blog posts on Designer Handbag Guide.

Let’s face it, Louis Vuitton bags are expensive. I hear a lot people say: I’ll never spend over $50 on a handbag. I’m fully supportive of this statement. It makes perfect sense if this is your financial principle. There are many beautiful, functional handbags out there available for less than $50. Just make sure of this: don’t spend that money on a fake Louis Vuitton bag. If it is a must to have a Louis Vuitton bag in your collection, it’ll be better to save up for a real one. Here are 5 reasons to buy real Louis Vuitton Bags over fakes.

5 Reasons To Buy Real Louis Vuitton Bags

1. Fakes are illegal.

It is the main and obvious reason of not getting involved in counterfeit products. Selling fake designer goods is illegal. In countries like France and Italy, buying and carrying fake bags can also be prosecuted.

2. Louis Vuitton bags are good investment.

Louis Vuitton has been named as the world’s most valuable brand in luxury for seven consecutive years. LV bags give you the perfect balance between style and money: Although the brand name stands for one of the most valuable name in the fashion industry the products it produces are however relatively affordable and economical. On comparison to what value the brand name holds, the company charges it customers for the quality it provides with its bags and not for the brand name they carry. This makes them the perfect value for your money.

3. Louis Vuitton bags are classic and timeless.



Some of the iconic models like Keepall, Alma, Noe and Speedy are still available to date since they were designed back in early 1930s. Classic bags will always be popular. They are true beauties that can endure the test of time and never go out of style.

4. The quality of Louis Vuitton bags is exceptional.

The brand name Louis Vuitton stands for quality and durability. Louis Vuitton has worked hard to the reputation as the best in their field. The immaculate finishing and materials not only gives the bags a fabulous look but also gives them that strength to last long. Fake models can only copy the superficial appearance but they will never be able to copy the superb craftsmanship and feel that the real Louis Vuitton bags possess. Remember? – You get what you paid for.

5. Real Louis Vuitton bags make you feel good.

The brand itself will evoke the confidence within. A fake model can never give you the pleasure and comfort that an original will. Can someone really feel good about carrying a fake LV bag and portending it is real?

If you are considering buying fake a Louis Vuitton bag, think twice. Do you really want to support illegal activities by purchasing a counterfeit product? Do you really want to be THAT girl who carries fake Louis Vuitton bags?

More blog posts on Designer Handbag Guide.

 



louis vuitton speedy bag
louis vuitton speedy bag

(photo from the Internet)

Hands up who doesn’t adore Audrey Hepburn? Look………… she was wearing a Louis Vuitton monogram speedy 25 bag back then! Louis Vuitton speedy bag is a classic piece that it has been an all time favorite designer bag for women around the globe. Due to its low price compared to other Louis Vuitton handbags,  a monogram Louis Vuitton Speedy bag is often the first Louis Vuitton bag a fan would get.

Chic, spacious and durable, Louis Vuitton Speedy bag is perfect for everyday use no matter you are dressing up or down. A must have for women with a love of fashion. Louis Vuitton Speedy bag was introduced shortly after the iconic LV keepall travel bag back in 1930s, it is the smaller version of keepall, a carryall bag for everyday use or travel. What you will like about about the Monogram speedy bags is that they so so light to carry. Louis Vuitton has a heritage in travel so I guess they fully understand nobody wants a bag that weights a ton. The speedy line began with speedy 30, the most popular size among women until today. Audrey Hepburn asked Henri-Louis Vuitton to create for her a smaller version compared to the 30, hence Speedy 25 was created.

People always question about the authenticity of a Louis Vuitton speedy bag because they notice that the Louis Vuitton logos and motifs on one side of the bag are upside down.

louis vuitton speedy bag

(photos from the Internet)

Let’s have a look what “upside down” means:

louis vuitton speedy bag

Yes. Original a Louis Vuitton speedy bag should have the LV monogram pattern up side down on the reverse side of the bag. One side of the monogram pattern upside down is one of the characteristics of Louis Vuitton speedy bags. That is because the body of the speedy is made from a single continuous piece of canvas, so the LV monogram pattern’s backside looks upside down. As a matter of fact, all Louis Vuitton bags that are made of a single continuous piece of monogram canvas have this one side “upside down”  pattern. You can see this pattern from Louis Vuitton keepall, saumur bags as well.

louis vuitton speedy bag upside down-002




More blog posts on Designer Handbag Guide.

This is proven to be the most frequently asked question. Does Louis Vuitton bag come with Authenticity Card? The answer is simple: Real Louis Vuitton bags never come with authenticity card.



True, Chanel, Fendi and Prada… have all introduced authenticity card to go with the package when you buy brand new from the boutique. Original Louis Vuitton bags don’t have authenticity cards stating: “We certify the authenticity of this item…” Instead, they come with one or two little white cards/tags:

louis vuitton cards-001

  • One with the product name and model number on it, the other with the fabric/material name on it. Some bags come with both tags while  others only come with one.
  • The cards/tags are two sided, one side in English and French on the other.
  • They are never attached to the bag itself by any means.

So if it is important for you to buy an authentic Louis Vuitton bag with the original package and receipt, in new condition, maybe it’s the best to buy it from Louis Vuitton store. If you find a brand new “Louis Vuitton Bag” listed on eBay with yellow authenticity card and a (home made) receipt, RUN. Fast.

More blog posts on Designer Handbag Guide.

Want to know more about Louis Vuitton date code? Today I’m going to share another date code related question.

Q: …The date code (of a vintage 80s Louis Vuitton Saumur bag we recently sold) is different to what I have seen, just curious. I’d like to know as much as possible…

Now, let’s have a look at the picture of this Saumur Bag’s date code:

saumer bag-002

Louis Vuitton started to use date codes on their bags since 1980s. There are 6 different date code formats in 1980s, unlike the single date code format (2 letters 4 numbers) on modern Louis Vuitton bags that most people are familiar with. One of the date code formats in late 1980s is 3 numbers 2 letters like this: 893 FC, which means Made in France, March 1989.




Also note it says LOUIS VUITTON MALLETIER (Louis Vuitton’s full name which was mostly stamped on Louis Vuitton antique/vintage items) on the little leather patch stitched on this vintage Louis Vuitton Saumur, while on a modern Louis Vuitton Saumur bag you’ll find “LOUIS VUITTON PARIS made in … (France U.S.A etc)” stamped on the leather patch.

Louis Vuitton Saumur bag

Louis Vuitton Saumur Bag Heat Stamps

Louis Vuitton Saumur Bag Heat Stamps

Louis Vuitton Saumur bag has always been popular after since it was introduced. It is shaped like saddle bags and has two separate compartments which makes it a great travel companion or an every day bag. Apart from the classic monogram Saumur bag, Louis Vuitton has introduced many other versions of Saumur bag, the latest being these 2 in Cruise 2012 collection.

Louis-Vuitton-handbags-13-of-13

(photo from Louis Vuitton Ads)

louis vuitton alma bag

Like Speedy and Noe Bag, Louis Vuitton Alma bag is one of the classics in the house of Louis Vuitton. It has been around for decades; people never get enough of it. That’s probably why when a very obvious fake Alma bag appeared on eBay, lots of buyers put their best bids forward. It ended up $370 in total. Not a bargain at all considering imitations like this are easily available from markets in Thailand or KL China Town for below $30.



Here are some photos of the fake Alma on eBay, can you spot the differences between this one and an authentic Louis Vuitton monogram Alma bag?

Fake louis vuitton alma bag on ebay

It might help if I put up some pictures of an authentic Louis Vuitton monogram Alam bag for you to compare:

louis vuitton alma bag

 

Clue number 1: Louis Vuitton uses a particular type of font with a well-rounded O. See the difference?

Clue number 2: Real Louis Vuitton Alma bags never have large center pocket divider inside the bag.

I adore the photo below… that Alma bag is still looking gorgeous in a very dark patina. One thing for sure, authentic Louis Vuitton bags age well.

Stay fabulous.

Louis Vuitton, a trunk-maker in Paris since 1854 built up his legend around travel by creating luggage, handbags and accessories that were as innovative as they were elegant. Over a century and half, the fashion house of Louis Vuitton has introduced many product lines. Some stay permanent,  some became discontinued.  I’m trying to compile a comprehensive list on materials used for Louis Vuitton handbags, wallets and accessories here. It takes time to gather all the information so while this Louis Vuitton Material guide is being completed, it will have the TO BE CONTINUED note in the end:).




Louis Vuitton Material

Louis Vuitton Material

MONOGRAM CANVAS

MONOGRAM CANVAS

Louis Vuitton’s symbol of quality since 1896, The monogram canvas is lightweight, supple, strong and sturdy. Completely waterproof, it is highly resistant to surface scratches – perfect for travel and contemporary life style.

Louis Vuitton Material

MONOGRAM MULTICOLOR

The Monogram Multicolor canvas is a sophisticated colouring of the famous Monogram canvas, with 33 silk-screened colors: a real technical achievement. A complete line of city bags, small leather goods and travel bags, Louis Vutton’s icons and new products, declined in white or black background. Developed for the Spring Summer 2003 show, the Monogram Multicolor canvas is now a permanent line.

Louis Vuitton Material

MONOGRAM MINI

MONOGRARM MINI

The Monogram Mini canvas is a small and colorful version of the Monogram canvas that comes in five colors: beige, blue, cherry, blue tone on tone and khaki tone on tone. The Monogram pattern has been reinterpreted on a light, supple and textile canvas to create a casual, fresh and very feminine collection. The Monogram Mini canvas line has  been discontinued.

Louis Vuitton Material

MONOGRAM SATIN

MONOGRAM SATIN

The monogram design was subtly enhanced with the addition of black satin weaved with metallic threads. This tone on tone pattern highlights a feminine collection of evening bags and accessories. Louis Vuitton Monogram Satin line has been discontinued.

Louis Vuitton Material

MONOGRAM VERNIS LEATHER

MONOGRAM VERNIS LEATHER

Inspired by the spirit of Louis Vuitton’s ready-to-wear collections, Monogram Vernis is a vivacious, sparkling, ultra-feminine line. Patent calfskin bags and accessories in a range of unusual, subtle colours highlight the famous Monogram canvas pattern.

Louis Vuitton Material

DAMIER CANVAS

DAMIER CANVAS

Designed in 1888, Damier canvas remains contemporary over the decades. Its geometric pattern and sober elegance have made it timeless. Since 1996, Louis Vuitton Offers a range of luggage and accessories in Damier canvas, for city or travel.

TO BE CONTINUED.




While buying a pre-owned Louis Vuitton bag, it is a must that you get your money’s worth and that the product you buy is genuine. If you want to know how to buy authentic pre-owned Louis Vuitton, here are a few tips on how to identify whether the pre-owned Louis Vuitton that you are about to buy is a genuine one.

Monogram Placement: Check for the symmetry in the monogram placement. This is a very important indicator of an authentic Louis Vuitton piece. Most Louis Vuitton monogram bags and wallets, regardless of the style, have a side to side symmetry except for few very old vintage bags.



 how to buy authentic pre-owned Louis Vuitton

Side to side symmetry in the monogram placement

Countries Manufactured: Louis Vuitton has many factories outside France. Based on the model, LV bags are currently being manufactured out of France, in countries such as USA, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland other than the obvious France. So, do not think that your Louis Vuitton bag is a non genuine one just because it is manufactured outside France.

 how to buy authentic pre-owned Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton bag made in Spain

Eye for Details: Louis Vuitton is very particular about their stitching and lining. The stitched would be even and regular and there will be the same number of stitches in different bags of the same model. The lining material would invariably be made of cotton canvas material and never suede. The color of the canvas is often brown.

How to Buy Authentic pre-owned Louis Vuitton

LV speedy bags have 5 stitches going cross the handle tab.

Fonts: Louis Vuitton uses a particular type of font with a well rounded O. Verify this to check for the authenticity of your bag.

How to Buy Authentic pre-owned Louis Vuitton

Note the even and regular stitches and round “O”.

Tags: When a brand new Louis Vuitton is purchased from a store, there are usually two tags that are supplied along with the bag but provided separately. The first tag would have “Louis Vuitton” and the material of the bag. The second one would have the model number, the bar code and the bag’s name in French. The tags are never attached to the bag. Sometimes you get a care booklet. However, there is no authenticity card that accompanies a Louis Vuitton bag, and if someone offers you a LV bag with such a card, then it is in all probability a non genuine one.



Receipts: Some non genuine sellers may try to convince you by saying “comes with the original receipt”. A pre-owned bag with receipt doesn’t guarantee you buy authentic pre-owned louis Vuitton. Remember that a receipt can easily be counterfeited and the presence or absence of one does not in any way tell you whether the bag is genuine or not. A genuine LV receipt would be on watermark paper and the size would be smaller than an A4 paper. You can also verify whether the store address given in the receipt actually exists. It should also have the name of the sales person who sold the bag as well as the complete contact details of the buyer.

Dust bag: The earlier dust bags were made of soft cotton flannel material with a very tiny LV embossed on it. The later versions are more yellowish and are made of thicker linen like material with LOUIS VUITTON more prominently displayed across the front. But any further advertisement or writing on the dust bag – and you should know that it is not genuine.

Date Codes: It is very important to understand the meaning Louis Vuitton date code in order to buy authentic pre-owned Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton bags manufactured after 1980 would have a date code, but you can get genuine older models without the date code as well.

 

 



Have you been to the new Louis Vuitton store in Sydney? It is Maison – magnificent. 3 times bigger than the old store, it is still filled with shoppers even on a weekday (what GFC, financial hardship?). On the other hand, lots of bargain hunters have been busy too, shopping for used Louis Vuitton bags for much cheaper than retail prices. But it all comes down to this question: is that near new, highly sought after Louis Vuitton bag you found on eBay a real bargain or is it just a hard to tell, super expensive fake? Someone asked me to have a look at this item listed on eBay. He liked this Louis Vuitton Christopher Backpack Bag but not sure if it’s the real deal.



Celebrities with Louis Vuitton Christopher Backpack

Celebrities with Louis Vuitton Christopher Backpack

The cool and discontinued Louis Vuitton Christopher backpack bag has been spotted on many famous musician and basketballers. No wonder when one emerged on eBay, many people started to bid eagerly.

From the main picture, this bag looks kind of similar to a real one. It’s even got a serial number/date code AR0031 printed on a little tag inside the bag with the seemingly right country code and date format. Below 2 pictures are from the actual eBay listing:

fake-louis-vuitton-back-pack

One picture has some other designer look alike items piled next to the bag itself. That obviously impressed some bidders. Winning bid for it was US$4,276.96. Not cheap. Judged by the price alone, it got to be real right? Sadly the bag is not real. It is not even a sophisticated copy.

It’s fairly easy to tell this “Louis Vuitton Christopher backpack bag” is fake from the date code provided:

1. Wrong production date: The Louis Vuitton Christopher backpack bag was from Louis Vuitton Autumn – Winter 2004 -2005 men collection. What does the date code “AR0031” on this eBay bag tell us? Made in France, March 2001. Yeah right, back in 2001 this Louis Vuitton style didn’t even exist.

2. Wrong date code font, color and stamping technique. If you’ve seen or owned a Louis Vuitton Christopher backpack bag, you’ll know the date code on a real bag is not printed in red letters as displayed on the fake bag. It should be heat stamped on the little leather tag in side the bag like this:

LV-backpack-date-code-1-of-1-300x300Yes. auction bidding is exciting. But before making a purchase like this, it pays to do some research first. Who would like to get on hold of a second hand fake Louis Vuitton Bag?