Not only is the number(s) inside a designer bag one small part of proper authentication, it also oftentimes reveals the time of manufacture or the season of the bag. Here's a guide to tell how old a Balenciaga handbag is just by looking at the tag.

Oftentimes, there is a letter on the stamping of a Balenciaga bag that will date the season and year of the handbag.

On metal tags (Balenciaga tags that have a metal plate), the letter following the first sequence of numbers will reveal the season and year of the bag. For Balenciaga bags with metal plates that are older than Fall / Winter 2003, this letter will be missing.

In the example above, this would be the letter L. Using the lookup below, we see that this bag is from Spring Summer 2012.

On leather tags (Balenciaga tags without a metal plate), some bags will not have this letter no matter what year or season they belong to, making it more difficult to date the bag. However, if the leather tag has this letter that allows dating, it will be located somewhere on the backside of the tag.

In the example of the leather tag above, this would be the letter H. Using the reference list below, H corresponds to a Spring Summer 2014 bag.Here's what each letter means:

A - Fall / Winter Collection 2017
B - Spring / Summer Collection 2017
C - F/W 2016
D - S/S 2016
E - F/W 2015
F - S/S 2015
G - F/W 2014
H - S/S 2014
I - F/W 2013
J - S/S 2013
K - F/W 2012
L - S/S 2012
M - F/W 2011
N - S/S 2011
O - F/W 2010
P - S/S 2010
Q - F/W 2009
R - S/S 2009
S - F/W 2008
T - S/S 2008
U - F/W 2007
V - S/S 2007
W - F/W 2006
Y - S/S 2006
Z - F/W 2005
A - S/S 2005
B - F/W 2004
C - S/S 2004
D - F/W 2003

So, now with the reference seasons above, you can easily date the following bags. 🙂

This bag has the letter B which means it is a 2004 Fall / Winter season bag.

The letter H on this bag tells us that this bag is from Spring Summer 2014.

As stated previously, dating a bag is only one very small part of authentication. This last picture reflects a very common fake tag. Notice how it also has a date letter.

Christian Dior bags are highly counterfeited. Fake replica bags unfortunately are all too common on many resale sites. Test your eye for authentic vs fake Dior bags. Can you tell?

Answers are at the bottom.

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Answers: 1. Authentic 2. Fake 3. Fake 4. Authentic 5. Fake

You may have noticed that most Louis Vuitton bags and wallets have a series of numbers and/or letters imprinted somewhere on the inside. This stamp can reveal the time and country of manufacture.

Here's a guide to what those letters and numbers mean.

No Date Code Stamp

If no datecode can be found anywhere on the inside of your Louis Vuitton bag or wallet, there may be two reasons for this. The item could have been manufactured before 1987, or in/after 2021. Or, if the inside lining is of a soft material, the date code can be worn off.

Early 1980s

Louis Vuitton started stamping some bags in the early 1980s. A date code from this time period could consist of 3 or 4 numbers. The first 2 numbers represent the year with the latter numbers representing the month of manufacture.

Using the example up above (834), we know that the date code represents 1983 in the 4th month.

1980s

For some 1980s and for all bags 1987-1989, the datecode will be 3 or 4 numbers followed by 2 letters. Again, the first 2 numbers represent the year and the latter numbers represent the month the bag was made. The 2 letters represent the location of where the item was constructed. Please refer to the country codes below for corresponding letters.

The date code in the above picture reads 8907 VI. The I is obscured in the image, but it's there. This date code stands for 1989 in the 7th month of the year. The bag was constructed in France, as VI represents a factory located in France.

1990-2006

From 1990 to 2006, date codes are 2 letters followed by 4 numbers. The 2 letters represent the country of construction. The 1st and 3rd number represent the month of the manufacture, while the 2nd and 4th number represent the year.

Using the image above as an example, FL1003 stands for United States due to the FL. 10 represents the 10th month (October), and 03 stands for 2003.

2007-early 2021

These bags also have date codes consisting of 2 letters followed by 4 numbers. The 2 letters once again represent the country of construction. The 1st and 3rd number represent the week of manufacture, and the 2nd and 4th number represent the year.

Using the above example (CA4171), we know that this item was made in Spain due to the CA. It was also finished in the 47th week of the year 2011.

Louis Vuitton Country Code Letters

made in France- A0, A1, A2, AA, AAS (Special Order), AH, AN, AR, AS, BA, BJ, BU, DR, DU, DT, CO, CT, CX, ET, FL, LA, LW, MB, MI, NO, RA, RI, SA, SD, SF, SL, SN, SP, SR, TA, TJ, TH, TN, TR, TS, VI, VX
made in Italy- BC, BO, CE, FN, FO, FY, MA, NZ, OB, PL, RC, RE, SA, TD
made in Spain- BC, CA, LO, LB, LM, LW, GI, UB
made in U.S.A.- FC, FH, FL, LA, OS, SD, TX
made in Switzerland- DI, FA
made in Germany- LP, OL

Just because an item has a date code, it does not mean that the bag is authentic.

However, if the country code letters don't match with the "made in" stamp located on the bag or wallet, the item is certainly fake. Example: A bag with date code FL1011 stands for France November 2011, but the item has a made in Spain stamp instead. In this case, you KNOW that the bag is counterfeit.

Louis Vuitton introduces new country codes over time. If your bag/wallet dates to 2018 or newer, there is a small likelihood that the country code may not be updated in this article. Also, as of March 2021, many handbags and accessories will be missing a datecode and "made in" stamp, as Louis Vuitton will be integrating a microchip into these products.

Herve Leger is owned by BCBG Max Azria, and BCBG actually has another version of bandage bodycon clothing that costs a lot less than Herve Leger. BCBG's cheaper version of bandage clothing is commonly called power skirts or power dresses. Because BCBG's power clothing is much better than any other Herve Leger dupes, I thought it would be a great topic to share with other Herve Leger lovers!

I wore a shaper with the BCBG power dress. I really dislike body smoothers, but this dress did not look nearly as good without it. This Herve Leger dress on the other hand provided more shaping and sculpting even without any undergarments to assist. The waistline is smaller and more sculpted and the bust area also got quite a bit of a lift.

BCBG power clothing uses very similar fabric to Herve Leger bandage clothing. This makes BCBG power dresses far more flattering than other brands that I've tried like French Connection, Guess, Bebe, and more who have all tried to copy Herve Leger's bandage style.

But, BCBG is still not nearly as flattering as Herve Leger. The fabric tends to be thinner, and not banded in any way. Here are some examples of BCBG power clothing if you're interested: sleeveless jacquard, BCBG power skirt, and peplum dress.

In Herve Leger, I usually purchase dresses in all colors. But, for BCBG power clothing where the hold is not as firm, I highly recommend choosing dark colors over light colors and to especially avoid white. The lighter colors don't do much to disguise little bulges here and there. 😛

One positive about BCBG compared to Herve Leger is that BCBG power dresses are easier to put on than Herve Leger bandage dresses. No need to have someone assist you in pulling up a zipper! Also, many BCBG power dresses tend to look a bit more casual than most Herve Leger dresses.

The Hermes Clic Clac H bracelet is an iconic piece in the designer world. The bracelets are elegant, timeless, and instantly make a statement. Here's our review of this wonderful jewelry piece.

Before we share our opinion, let's talk a bit about the different clic clac bracelet variations and sizes.

Different Widths, Metals, and Colors

The Clic Clac comes in three primary thicknesses. Narrow is half an inch thick. Wide is one inch thick, and Extra Wide is one and a half inch thick.

As you can see, each thickness has a totally different effect. The narrow has a dainty appeal and would suit any wrist, no matter how small. Whereas, the extra wide H bracelet is very striking and bold.

Clic Clac bracelets are gold-plated or palladium-plated for the silver tone. Hermes has produced this bracelet in many different enamel colors, and each color has its own unique appeal. As a result, some Hermes fans have many many Clic Clac bracelets.

Sizing

The Hermes Clic Clac comes in two different sizes named PM and GM. PM measures 7.5 inches in circumference, whereas the GM measures 8 inches in circumference.

The PM best suits someone who has a small to medium sized wrist, and the GM suits someone who has a medium to large sized wrist.

If you're not sure what size you may be, simply measure the circumference of your wrist. It should comfortably be less than the measured circumference of the bracelet.

The Clic Clac bracelet that we're reviewing is gold-plated and in the PM size. Isn't it just stunning?

This bracelet has a good weight to it and weighs around 30 grams. The style and iconic H exudes luxury. This bracelet easily rivals and trumps over other costume jewelry.

There's no denying that this timeless showpiece looks gorgeous by itself and literally can be worn with any outfit.

Aside from it being instantly recognizable in the fashion world and its undeniable chicness, this bangle can be stacked and worn with almost any other bracelet. Here are a few examples:

paired with Ann Taylor mother of pearl bangle (here)

I find that the Clic Clac enhances the style of whatever its paired with and makes the other bracelet look more expensive than what it really is.

paired with pearl bracelet (here)

When paired with pearls, it looks so feminine and pretty!

paired with tennis bracelet (here)

And, with a tennis bracelet, it looks especially elegant and luxurious. Notice how silver and gold tones can be mixed with this bracelet. This truly is a very versatile piece of jewelry.

I really miss having a Herve Leger store near me. The Herve Leger selection in department stores, particularly for smaller sizes is really disappointing. The deficiency also emphasizes how great online shopping is; the selection is so much better, and the prices can be deeply discounted... like on Lollipuff! 😉

If the selection at department stores was better, and all sizes were on display including xxs, the demand for Herve Leger would be even greater! All too often, women size themselves larger, and they really miss out in that magical shaping this designer brand provides.

Anyway, enough of my rant. On to a review of six 2015 Herve Leger dresses. 🙂

Lilliana

This dress (here) really surprised me. On the hanger, it seemed like one of those over-complicated dresses that would be overwhelming on a petite or average frame. But, my tune changed the moment I put this dress on. The folds, the neckline, the slimming black color, It is sexy and really really sophisticated!

The hold on this dress was also above average. The dress runs half size big compared to most Herve Leger styles.

Viviana

I guess the advantage of limited selection is that you end up trying on dresses that you normally wouldn't. The Viviana (here) was another very pleasant surprise.

My stature and frame usually doesn't carry a knee-length fit and flare well, but I guess in Herve Leger dresses, it works! 🙂 I loved the shape of this dress, very sweet but also very sexy.

This dress runs one size big. It has average Herve Leger hold.

Akio

The Akio (here) is a very easy-to-wear dress. The lines on the dress further enhance an hourglass shape. And, the dress can easily be paired with a blazer for an extremely chic office look.

This dress runs true-to-size and has average Herve Leger bodycon shaping.

Eva

This gold metallic Eva dress (here) didn't work on my body. It runs one size big and is particularly big around the torso, so the hold was below average for Herve Leger.

Elisha

The Elisha (here) is very pretty. Everyone should have an a-line Herve Leger dress, and this would be a great essential.

The green color is also very refreshing. Before this year, I had only seen counterfeit Herve Leger in a green shade like this. This shade will make certain complexions glow!

This dress ran one size big as well.

Mahala

The Mahala (here) that was tried on was in a size that was 2 sizes too big. But, because it was such a unique dress, I decided to give it a whirl anyway. 🙂

It had above average hold on the top half and average hold on the bottom half. This dress also ran big in my opinion.

Since Hermès is the most expensive handbag designer, it's not surprising that there are many fake Hermes bags out there. Weed out replicas with this authentication guide that covers hardware and stamping features. These tips can be applied to many bags including Birkins, Kellys, Herbags and more.

Main Hermes Paris Stamp

Before we say anything, let's get your first impression. Of the stamps above, which one belongs to an authentic Hermes Birkin bag?

If you're familiar with Hermes, then you probably said the first left-most stamp is authentic. This is correct.

Hermes Paris stamps are usually very clean and neat. We picked one of the messiest Hermes Paris stamps we've ever seen to use in this example. Hermes has also used a multitude of different fonts over the years, so recognizing incorrect font requires a lot of expert knowledge based on the year of manufacture and bag style. So, don't feel bad if you got this wrong.

So, what's so wrong about the stamping on the black and red bag?

The stamping on the black bag suggests that it was pressed in. For silver or gold font, you will never see stamping so deeply depressed.

On the red bag, the silver ink is very spotty, and the Hermes Paris stamp is placed too far away from the stitching at the top.

Easy Facts and Tips on Hermes Paris Stamping Authentication

- Experts will look at the font of the stamping, but this is difficult to do for most as it has changed very frequently.
- Stamping is usually very clean and perfect.
- Bags made with exotic crocodile, alligator and lizard leathers will also have an additional marking, like **, □, ^, -, or =.
- Hermes has lots of symbols. Some bags made for people associated with Hermes have a shooting star symbol, and some special order Hermes bags have a horseshoe stamp next to the Hermes Paris stamp.
- Know where the Hermes Paris stamp should be located on the bag. For instance, for Hermes Birkin and Kelly bags, the Hermes Paris stamp is usually located very close to the top edge of the bag. Many counterfeits place the stamp too low.
- The stamp will be silver, gold or an imprint. If it is a metallic color, it will match the hardware color for that bag.

Blind Stamp

The blind stamp shows the year of manufacture and the craftsman. So, which is the fake blind stamp?

If you say the light blue bag is the counterfeit, you are right!

Again, Hermes authentication is tricky. Authentic stamping can be sometimes crooked, placed in different spots, and font and font size has not been consistent through the years.

Given our expert knowledge, we know the Q in the square (symbolizing 2013 for the year of manufacture) should be smaller on the blue bag.

- Contrary to popular belief, not all authentic Hermes bags have blind stamps.

Zipper

Hermes has distinct zippers. Which of these is the replica zipper?

Sorry. Trick question. Both zippers are authentic Hermes zippers.

Easy Facts and Tips on Hermes Zippers

- There are several variations of zippers that Hermes has used. They vary based on the bag style and year of manufacture. A vintage bag's zipper will be very different from a more current handbag's zipper.
- The zipper pull is horizontal to the teeth; it should not hang down.
- If "Hermes" is imprinted on the zipper pull, the bottom of the word will be towards the leather attachment.

Lock

Many Hermes bags don't come with locks, but for those that do, it's an easy inspection point that a lot of fakes don't pass. So, is the silver or gold lock the fake?

This one was easy, right? The lock on the right is a horrible copy! Can you believe that people try to sell stuff like that as authentic designer goods?!?

Easy Facts and Tips on Hermes Locks

- There are several variations of lock imprints that Hermes has used.
- Font will always be clean and crisp.
- Lock number will match the number on the accompanying keys.
- If a bag made of exotic leather like ostrich and croc has a lock, the lock body will be covered in the same exotic leather, hiding any lock markings.
- Counterfeitors use lots of different lock and key numbers, but 121, 212, and 102 are used very frequently on fakes.

Hardware Plate

This hardware part can be found on Birkins and Kellys, 2 of the most popular Hermes bags. Which one is the fake?

The fake hardware is the silver one. The font is ever so off from anything that Hermes ever produced. And, you can also tell in the background that they really messed up on the leather finish. What leather is that supposed to be, togo, epsom? All people really familiar with Hermes will agree that the leather grain looks disastrous!

Easy Facts and Tips on Hermes Hardware Imprints

- There are several variations of fonts that Hermes has used based on year of manufacture and bag style.
- Font will always be clean and crisp. Fonts on more recent bags are very thin.
- Hermes metal is incredibly resistant to color fade or change.
- Non-gold hardware will not have a gold-plating stamp.

To make this authentication guide useful to most, we focused on easy key features that counterfeits often goof up on. Proper and thorough authentication requires inspection specific to the bag style, year and make, and many additional features are also reviewed.

Don't worry though. We've got you covered. If you need a professional screening, you can always rely on Lollipuff's authentication service.

The Louis Vuitton Ellipse PM bag is a structured classic perfect for everyday outfits. Here is a review about its size, design, and functionality.

Size

The Louis Vuitton Ellipse PM bag measures roughly 12.5 inches wide, 10.5 inches tall and 5.5 inches deep. I consider this to be a medium-sized handbag. It easily fits a lot of essentials. With plenty of room to spare, it carried my wallet, phone, backup charger, cardigan, sunglasses, keys, tissue paper, and chapstick.

For those who like the look of this bag but carry a LOT, or like a bigger handbag, the Louis Vuitton Ellipse MM may be a better option. It measures approximately 16 inches wide, 13 inches tall, and 8 inches deep. Comparing Louis Vuitton Ellipse PM vs MM, the MM is considerably larger, and its size is similar to the Celine mini luggage handbag.

For sizing reference, I stand 5 feet 5 inches barefoot. I gravitate towards small to medium-sized bags, so I prefer the PM over the MM size.

Design

I adore the structure on this bag. It is very very rigid, and it would take a completely reckless owner to ruin the shape. To me, this discontinued bag is much more beautiful than the Speedy bag due to its polished structure and design. It is simple yet interesting, making it a very classic handbag.

Vachetta leather is only used on the handles and trim of the monogram Ellipse. Since exposure to dirt, sunlight, oil, and moisture darken vachetta leather, this bag will age considerably better than a monogram Alma bag which has vachetta leather for the entire base.

The neutral brown and tan colors of the monogram bag allow the bag to match most casual and semi-casual outfits. Most of the bag's exterior is LV monogram canvas which is very resistant to wear and damage. Not only does it look good, but the monogram is awesomely durable. Aside from the iconic LV pattern, there are reasons why Louis Vuitton monogram is so popular. 🙂

Functionality

The opening utilizes 2 zippers and can be opened very wide. The inside is one large space with one small side pocket. I find this bag to be very convenient to use. And, given the hard exterior, you really don't have to worry about anything getting squished.

For the longest time, I stayed away from bags without a shoulder strap. But, recently, I can't seem to get enough of bags with handles. Surprisingly, I am not inconvenienced by a bag resting on my wrist, and the resulting look is very lady-like.

How to clean or wash a Herve Leger dress is probably the most common question that we get related to Herve Leger. According to the carelabel, Herve Leger clothing should always be sent to the dry-cleaners. However, from our experience, this hasn't been the case.

Even though most Herve Leger carelabels instruct owners to send their garments to the dry-cleaners, we can't tell you how many times people have reported ruined Herve Leger due to dry-cleaning.

Through the many years that we've dealt with Herve Leger, we found that the washer can actually be your friend!

***The following method does not apply to Herve Leger with beading, embellishments, and metallic or rubber finishes. The following method is also great for washing BCBG power skirts and dresses. Even though we have always had great success with this method, please proceed at your own risk. ***

For this step, turn the Herve Leger inside out, so the tag, hangtags, and carelabel are on the outside. Throw the Herve Leger into the washer with a small amount of Oxiclean .

Set the washer on delicate cycle for a short wash with low spinning. Cold water must be selected; this is most important!

After the Herve Leger is washed, do NOT put it in the dryer. Instead, lay it flat on a large clean colorfast surface like a bathtub. Turn the Herve Leger over one or two times a day until the garment is completely dry. Do not wring.

Due to the heavy fabric, it may take a few days for the garment to completely dry. Until then, do not stretch or try on the Herve Leger.

And, then, turn the dress outside out with the tags facing inwards, and it's done!

This is how I personally have washed my Herve Leger for the last year. The dresses and tops come out so fresh, and I have not noticed any thinning or any other damage caused by doing this. Because this new way has helped me out so much, I wanted to share it with all of the other Herve Leger lovers out there!

I didn't even realize how matchy matchy this outfit was until I looked at the images. Denim and interwoven chains seems to be the theme. Gold links with interwoven black leather are so beautiful. In my opinion, it's one of the most major design innovations ever in fashion. Thank you Coco Chanel!