How to Spot Real vs. Fake YSL Bags

YSL bags are expensive, and buying a fake one for the price of a genuine one can be extremely painful.

In this article, we’ll give all the needed information so you can purchase a genuine bag without the help of professionals.

However, if you still feel like you need a helping hand, don’t hesitate to contact Legit Grails. We’ll give you a precise authentication for your luxury bag!

• Material Quality
• Logo and Stamping
• Inside Label
• Serial Number
• Stitching
• Hardware
• Dust Bag and Packaging
• Authenticity Cards
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Material Quality

YSL is one of the biggest and most respectable brands in the world. The bags produced by YSL are made out of the best materials. Soft leather, precious metals and suede – that is what you should expect from a YSL bag.

If the bag feels rough and plasticky, you might have a counterfeit version of the bag. Also, the texture of the leather might be inconsistent – another sign that the bag is fake.

Logo and Stamping

The YSL logo is crucial for spotting an authentic bag and should always be polished and precise. On a genuine YSL bag, the logo is crafted with great attention to detail. The left arm of the "Y" should be slightly thicker and sit under the "S," while the right arm should be on top.

The middle of the "S" overlaps the "L," with its curves thinner at the top and bottom than in the middle. The bend in the "L" should be just over 90 degrees, and the left side of the "L" should be thinner than the right.

Some authentic bags have four small mock nails in the corners—two at the tops of the "Y," one at the bottom left of the "S," and one at the bottom right of the "L." However, these nails are not a foolproof indicator of authenticity, as not all genuine bags feature them.

Counterfeit bags often have visible flaws in the logo. Look for uneven lettering, incorrect fonts, or misalignment. The logo may appear blurry or have inconsistent spacing between letters, which are signs of poor manufacturing quality.

Inside Label

The inside label of a genuine YSL bag is a key detail to check. It usually features the brand name and key identifiers like the style number and art number. This label is typically located at the base of the flap or behind a pocket wall inside the bag.

It should say "MADE IN ITALY" in all caps, followed by the style number (usually six digits) and the art number (four to five digits). For vintage bags, you might see a 12-digit serial number.

Newer bags will also have a prefix and a dot before these numbers, consistent with other Kering brands like Gucci and Balenciaga.

Fake bags often have poorly made labels. Look out for errors in the font, misaligned printing, or shallow embossing. Some counterfeit bags might not have a label at all, or it may be poorly placed. If the label is missing, doesn’t match the standard format, or lacks the style and art numbers, it’s likely a fake.

Serial Number

The serial number on an authentic YSL bag is a vital element for verification. It is typically stamped or sewn into the interior of the bag and serves as a unique identifier. Genuine YSL bags have serial numbers that are clear and properly aligned. The format and location of the serial number can vary depending on the model and year of manufacture.

In contrast, fake YSL bags often have incorrect, missing, or poorly printed serial numbers. Some counterfeits might have a serial number that does not match the format of authentic ones, or the number might be smudged and hard to read. For example, if you find that the serial number on the bag doesn’t match the format provided by YSL or is difficult to verify, it could be a sign of a counterfeit.

Stitching

The quality of stitching is a crucial sign of genuine YSL craftsmanship. Real YSL bags have precise, even stitching with no loose threads or uneven lines. The stitches should be uniform in color and spacing, showing the high level of workmanship.

Many YSL bags use matelassé stitching, a French technique that mimics hand stitching. The rows of stitches should be consistent, and the number of stitches on each side of the bag should match. If both sides have the same count, the bag is likely authentic. However, some YSL bags might not have edge stitching; instead, their sides are glued together. But most YSL bags are stitched.

Fake YSL bags often have stitching issues. You might notice uneven stitching, loose threads, or mismatched colors. If the stitching looks sloppy or threads can be easily pulled, it’s a strong sign the bag isn’t real. Authentic YSL bags are known for their meticulous stitching, reflecting their quality and attention to detail.

Hardware

The hardware on a YSL bag, including zippers, clasps, and decorative elements, is key to spotting a fake. Authentic YSL bags feature high-quality metal hardware that feels solid and smooth. The finish should be even, and any engravings, like the YSL logo, should be clear and precise. For example, real YSL bags will have “SAINT LAURENT PARIS” engraved on the buttons in capital letters, with neatly spaced text that is not painted.

In contrast, counterfeit bags often have hardware that feels cheap and lightweight. Fake zippers may use inferior metals like aluminum, making them flimsy and less durable. If the zipper feels light or the finish wears off quickly, it’s likely a fake. Counterfeit buttons might also have uneven or poorly done engravings due to lower-quality production.

For YSL bags with chain straps, the chain should be curb-style with flat links, and a metal connector should read “SAINT LAURENT.” Leather straps should have neatly stitched edges and embossed lettering that says “SAINT LAURENT” or “SAINT LAURENT PARIS,” depending on the width. Any flaws or inconsistencies in these details could indicate a counterfeit bag.

Dust Bag and Packaging

When you buy a genuine YSL bag, it should come with a high-quality dust bag. This dust bag is made from soft, premium fabric and will have the YSL logo or the words "SAINT LAURENT" and "PARIS" in different fonts. The word "PARIS" should be smaller than "SAINT LAURENT," showing the brand’s attention to detail.

Counterfeit bags often come with dust bags that feel cheap or have inconsistent printing. For instance, if "SAINT LAURENT" and "PARIS" are the same size, or if the dust bag feels rough and low-quality, it’s likely a fake. Always compare the dust bag and packaging with images of authentic YSL products to spot any differences.

Authenticity Cards

Authenticity cards are another important aspect to check. Genuine YSL bags come with authenticity cards and care booklets that include information about the product and care instructions. These cards should be high-quality, with consistent fonts and clear printing.

Fake YSL bags might include authenticity cards that have discrepancies in the information or quality of printing. For example, you might notice spelling errors, poor print quality, or inconsistencies in the design. If the authenticity card looks cheap or the information doesn’t match what you’d expect from YSL, it’s a strong indication that the bag might be fake.

FAQ

What Should I Do If I Suspect My YSL Bag Is Fake?

Start by examining the bag using the guide above. If you still have doubts after that, try contacting a professional from Legit Grails.

We will give you a 100% correct review of your purchase, and, if it is authentic, we’ll give you an authenticity certificate that will make your bag more valuable.

Are There Authorized Places To Verify The Authenticity Of My YSL Bag?

Yes, there are. If you have access to a YSL retail store or an authorized reseller, you can try and go there for a verdict.

If not, contact the specialists at Legit Grails for a 100% correct review of your purchase.

Can The Price Of A YSL Bag Help Determine Its Authenticity?

No, the price alone can’t be an indicator of an authentic YSL bag. Coupled with some more information, the price can help you determine the authenticity.

Alone, the price is just a number.

Conclusion

So here you have it, a complete guide on how to identify a fake YSL bag. Using these tips will let you authenticate a bag by yourself, without using professional help.

However, if you still have doubts after going through all the tips, don’t hesitate to contact Legit Grails for some help!