How to $pot a Knock off De$igner Pur$e

I am not big into designer labels but do own several real leather purses.  They just seem to wear better and last for years.  If you are shopping for a designer purse and find a deal that seems just too good to be true-look for these signs to help you determine if the bag is the real thing or a cheap knock off

1)  Check the stitching.  Stitching on real bags is even, straight and without loose threads or double stitches

2)  The hardware is SOLID (usually brass) and buckles often stamped with the logo. 

3)  Real leather is soft and supple.  Fakes are generally PLEATHER which is cheaper, thinner and brittle, which is particularly noticeable on longer straps.  

4)  LOGOs are perfectly symmetrical, aligned.  Knock-offs have crooked, blurry or slanted logos--always a dead giveaway

5)  Zippers move smoothly, do not stick and Coach purses have a YKK stamped on the pull.

6)  Linings are stitched-not glued

7)  Many have serial numbers in the lining. Check the serial number on the website to authenticate the bag.  

Happy Designer Bag shopping!

When to $hop

USA Weekend offers these tips
Before you shop for that big-ticket item, check the calendar for the best time to buy. Selection is best early; prices are better later, says Mandy Walker, senior project editor for Consumer Reports. Here's when to shop for:

Cars. August and September, when dealers are clearing inventory to make room for new-model-year cars.

Gas grills. September through December.

Lawn mowers. October; it's also the best time to buy winter coats.

Camcorders. November; also best for GPS devices and bicycles.

Appliances. December through January. Post-holiday prices are best on appliances both large (refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers) and small (toasters, blenders).

Exercise equipment January; prices drop in time for New Year's “get in shape” resolutions.

Furniture (indoor). February.

TVs. March — also best for DVD and Blu-ray players, MP3 players and digital cameras.
Computers. The end of each financial quarter — April, June, October and January — when sellers need to move inventory.

Athletic shoes and apparel. May.

Tools. June, also the best time to buy electronics.

Furniture (outdoor). July starts end-of-season close-out sales.

http://www.usaweekend.com/article/20100730/MONEY/8010306/For-deals-worth-waiting-for--know-when-to-shop