Burberry is a renowned British luxury fashion brand that has gained immense popularity over the years. However, with its fame comes the risk of counterfeit products flooding the market. As a discerning shopper, it is essential to know how to spot a genuine Burberry item from a convincing fake. In this guide, we will provide you with valuable information on how to verify the authenticity of Burberry products, particularly focusing on the Burberry Smoked Check pattern.
The History and Revival of Burberry
Burberry was founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry, an innovative draper's assistant. The brand gained recognition for its invention of gabardine, a weatherproof fabric made from worsted wool and cotton strands. During World War I, Burberry adapted the trench coat for British officers, further solidifying its reputation.
In the mid-20th century, Burberry licensed its trademarks to multiple manufacturers, leading to market saturation and extensive counterfeiting. To restore the brand's image and exclusivity, Burberry implemented strategic changes in the early 2000s. The company removed the plaid pattern from most of its products and focused on improving quality control.
Today, Burberry is back in the luxury market, valued at over $7 billion. The Burberry Smoked Check pattern is one of its iconic designs that have captivated fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
How to Spot a Fake Burberry Bag
When examining a Burberry bag, there are several key elements to consider to determine its authenticity:
The made in Tag
Previously, a made in china tag was a sign of a counterfeit Burberry bag. However, Burberry now manufactures its products worldwide, including China, Italy, Poland, and England. The only exception is the cashmere plaid scarf, which is exclusively produced in Scotland.
The Price Tag
The cost of a Burberry bag varies depending on its era of production. Bags made in the 1990s and early 2000s are generally less expensive than those made after the mid-2000s. Vintage Burberry handbags can offer excellent value for savvy shoppers.
The Stitching
Authentic Burberry bags have neat and even stitching that follows the bag's lines. Pay close attention to seams, handles, and other interconnecting areas. Look for flawless stitches both inside and outside the bag. Loose threads may indicate that the bag is not genuine.
The Label or Metal Plaque
Every Burberry bag features either a metal plaque or a leather label on the inside. On an authentic bag, the plaque or label will be perfectly centered and stamped or engraved with the Burberry name. The metal of the plaque should match the bag's hardware, and the engraving should be clean and crisp.
The Burberry Logo
The Burberry font is distinctive and has undergone several updates over the years. The mounted knight logo, developed in 1901, is a hallmark of Burberry. Pay attention to the details of the logo, such as the shape of the letters and the proportions. Any inconsistencies may indicate a fake bag.
The Check Pattern and Knight Image
Burberry is famous for its check patterns, with the Haymarket check being the most recognizable. On authentic Burberry bags, the check pattern should be perfectly straight, flawlessly printed, and match up seamlessly at the seams. Any deviations or imperfections in the check pattern may indicate a counterfeit bag.
The Care Booklet
Every new Burberry bag comes with a booklet that authenticates it and provides care instructions. Examine the font of the booklet's logo, ensuring it is crisp and centered.
The Hardware
Authentic Burberry bags feature high-quality hardware that feels weighty and substantial. The metal should not be discolored, faded, or chipped. Engraved hardware should have a clear and crisp engraving of the Burberry knight logo. The zipper should open and close smoothly.
By thoroughly examining these elements, you can reduce the risk of purchasing a fake Burberry bag. If you are unsure about the authenticity, consider having the bag authenticated by a professional appraiser.
How to Spot a Fake Burberry Coat
Burberry coats are iconic and highly coveted, making them a prime target for counterfeiters. To determine the authenticity of a Burberry coat, consider the following criteria:
Authentic Burberry coats have several tags sewn into the inside seams. The location and details of these tags may vary depending on the coat's style, age, and country of manufacture. Look for uniformity in size and color, crisp lettering, and neatly sewn tags.
Burberry coats typically have heavyweight plastic buttons with burberry stamped across the top and bottom. The buttons should be securely sewn on and have a crisp appearance.
Materials and Colors
Authentic Burberry coats are made with high-end woven fabrics and feature traditional colors such as red, tan, black, gray, and blue. The materials should feel durable and luxurious, not cheap or flimsy.
The Stitching
Burberry coats have impeccable stitching, with 15 stitches per 5 centimeters on the collar and four lines of stitching across the belt. Some coats may also have a quilted diamond pattern, which is challenging to replicate without expertise and top-of-the-line machinery.
When evaluating a Burberry coat's authenticity, pay attention to these specific criteria in addition to the general guidelines mentioned earlier. If you are unsure, seek professional authentication before making a significant investment.
As a discerning shopper, it is crucial to know how to verify the authenticity of Burberry products, especially the Burberry Smoked Check pattern. By examining key elements such as the made in tag, stitching, labels, logos, check patterns, and hardware, you can reduce the risk of purchasing a counterfeit Burberry item. Remember to seek professional authentication when in doubt. Enjoy your genuine Burberry purchase with confidence and style.
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