So, now you need to know how to read the Chanel date code chart above. When you find your bag’s serial number, count the number of digits. If it is seven digits long, your bag was manufactured in 2005 or before.

Learning how to tell if a Chanel bag is real has become both art and science. Today’s most respected dealers do not rely on their experience alone to determine a Chanel bag’s authenticity. They also utilize technology to better assess each bag. Yet, many authentication apps have come along that are far less reliable than they claim.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

No one likes the disappointment of investing in a fake product. You want to make sure you’re getting the value you’ve paid for, right? Our team has dug into the details and found some insider tips on how to tell if your Chanel bag is authentic.

You can also look at the logo stamp to see all the letters in “CHANEL” are spaced equally and match the hardware color.

By familiarizing yourself with these signs, you can ensure that you are purchasing real chanel bags, thus owning an authentic Chanel bag.

Other accompaniments like care booklets can also provide valuable insights into the authenticity. The inclusion of a white care booklet containing detailed care instructions is indicative of a genuine Chanel bag.

Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos."X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. history of the Chanel flap bag "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker. Gold speckles appear throughout sticker.

Expect to find rare and collectible Flap and Mini Flap bags in every sale in addition to other popular Chanel bags in pristine condition in the newest colors. Sotheby's handbag sales include rare Chanel bags in limited edition colorways.

Bags that are marked with the phrase "Made in Paris" should be avoided because they could be fakes. Genuine bags are those that are marked with the phrases "Made in France" or "Made in Italy." Additionally, you should be wary of bags that have flat or puffy quilts and leather of low quality.

Stitching symmetry is another fine detail that most replicas fail to match. In a genuine Chanel bag, the diamond quilting on the back pocket will blend seamlessly with the quilting on the bag. 

Bags that are marked with the phrase "Made in Paris" should be avoided because they could be fakes. Genuine bags are those that are marked with the phrases "Made in France" or "Made in Italy." Additionally, you should be wary of bags that have flat or puffy quilts and leather of low quality.

Understanding the unique characteristics of these two types of leather can help ensure that you're investing in a genuine Chanel bag.

As Chanel bags do not depreciate in value immensely, they can be sold and ‘borrowed’ at the owner’s whim.