The Burberry Blue Label line, a sub-brand exclusive to Japan, holds a special place in the hearts of fashion enthusiasts. Discontinued in 2015, these bags have become highly sought-after in the vintage market, making them prime targets for counterfeiters. A savvy buyer needs to be equipped with the knowledge to distinguish an authentic Burberry Blue Label bag from a cleverly disguised fake. This article will delve deep into the key indicators of authenticity, focusing on the label, craftsmanship, materials, and overall design, ensuring you can confidently identify a genuine Burberry Blue Label handbag.
Understanding the Allure of Burberry Blue Label
Before we dive into the specifics of authentication, it's important to understand why the Burberry Blue Label line is so desirable. It was specifically tailored for the Japanese market, featuring designs that catered to local tastes and preferences. This meant a focus on smaller, more practical sizes, often incorporating the classic Burberry check in a more subtle and contemporary way. The line also offered a younger, more playful aesthetic compared to the main Burberry line.
This exclusivity, combined with the brand's inherent prestige and quality, created a strong demand for Burberry Blue Label items. When the line was discontinued, the demand soared, particularly for vintage pieces like the iconic Burberry Blue Label purses and handbags. This high demand, unfortunately, also attracted counterfeiters eager to profit from unsuspecting buyers.
The Label: A Critical Point of Authentication
The label inside the bag is often the most reliable indicator of authenticity. Counterfeiters frequently cut corners in this area, making mistakes that can be easily spotted with a trained eye.
1. Stitched Label:
* Authentic: Every stitch is precise, uniform in size, and perfectly aligned. The thread color will be consistent and match the overall design. The stitching will be tight and secure, with no loose ends or fraying. Look for clean, crisp corners on the label where it's stitched to the lining.
* Fake: Extra threads, uneven stitching, and inconsistent thread color are major red flags. The stitching might be loose, sloppy, or even missing in certain areas. The label might be poorly attached, with visible gaps or uneven edges. Fraying threads are almost always indicative of a fake.
Detailed Inspection Points for Stitching:how to spot original burberry blue label bag
* Stitch Density: Authentic Burberry Blue Label bags will have a high stitch density. Examine the number of stitches per inch. Counterfeit bags often use fewer stitches to save time and money, resulting in a less secure and less refined finish.
* Stitch Angle: The angle of the stitches should be consistent and uniform. Look for any deviations in the angle, as this can indicate machine malfunctions or poor craftsmanship, both hallmarks of counterfeit products.
* Back Stitching: Check the back stitching, the point where the stitching begins and ends. On an authentic bag, the back stitching will be nearly invisible, seamlessly integrated into the overall design. On a fake bag, the back stitching may be messy, bulky, or even exposed.
* Thread Quality: The thread used in authentic Burberry Blue Label bags is high-quality and durable. It should be smooth and resistant to fraying. Counterfeit bags often use cheap, flimsy thread that is prone to breakage and unraveling.
Beyond the Stitching: Analyzing the Label Material:
* Authentic: The label material itself will be of high quality, often a tightly woven fabric or a durable leather. The texture will be smooth and even, with no visible imperfections. The label will feel substantial and well-made.
* Fake: Counterfeit labels are often made from cheap, thin materials that feel flimsy and easily damaged. The texture might be rough, uneven, or even plastic-like. The label might feel brittle and prone to tearing.
Deciphering the Label Text:
The text on the label is another crucial area to scrutinize. Authentic labels will feature crisp, clear lettering with consistent font and spacing. Look for any misspellings, inconsistencies in font size, or uneven spacing between letters.
* Authentic: The label will typically feature the "Burberry Blue Label" logo, often accompanied by "Made in Japan" or "Designed in Japan." The font used will be specific to the Burberry Blue Label line.
* Fake: Counterfeit labels often have misspellings, incorrect fonts, or inconsistent spacing. The lettering might be blurry or poorly defined. The "Made in Japan" or "Designed in Japan" designation might be missing or incorrectly formatted.
Examining the Material Quality and Craftsmanship
Burberry is renowned for its quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. These are areas where counterfeiters often fall short, providing valuable clues to authenticity.
1. Fabric and Leather:
* Burberry Check Bag Women (Authentic): The classic Burberry check should be perfectly aligned, with consistent colors and no noticeable distortions. The canvas material should be durable, tightly woven, and resistant to wear and tear. The colors should be rich and vibrant, not faded or dull.
* Burberry Patent Leather Bag (Authentic): The patent leather should have a smooth, glossy finish with a luxurious feel. It should be supple and flexible, not stiff or brittle. The patent leather should be free of imperfections, such as scratches, dents, or bubbles.
* Black Leather Burberry Handbag (Authentic): The leather should be of high quality, supple, and have a distinct, luxurious smell. The grain of the leather should be consistent and even. The leather should be free of imperfections, such as scars, blemishes, or discoloration.