– Make sure you see a photo of the creed tag containing a serial number (implemented only in 1994 +) and “made in” information. counterfeit Coach leather bags, but general guidance is to inspect leather quality and bag craftsmanship for any non-symmetrical sides, crooked or non-even stitching, peeling material that looks like cardboard, etc. – I could not find great guides on signs of authentic vs. I was watching several bags that looked just like small crossbodys, but upon receiving the measurements they turned out to be large messenger bags that could even fit a laptop.

– Be sure to read the listings carefully for measurements (or ask) as several styles may look similar, but could be very different in size.

I don’t recommend including any style names or numbers in the search box, as many listings are not labeled with such. I recommend using the filters on the side for “leather” only, narrowing it down to the color(s) you want, then filtering from price low to high. – If looking on eBay with a specific budget, be patient with your search because there are tons of new options listed every week for pre-owned Coach. Since the extra length of the strap on my bag was so long, I looped it around as shown above, and securely tucked the end through the small holder loop. It’s great for both men (my Dad makes special requests for me to bring mine home) and women for adding extra sizes to belts, handbag straps, and even leather ankle shoe straps. If you don’t have a leather hole puncher by now, then you’ve been seriously missing out. My adjustable strap was still too long for me at the shortest hole, but no biggie…. If strap length is usually an issue for you, make sure to look for styles that have adjustable straps with buckles (some Coach straps are not adjustable, as shown above). Re-sizing Straps – I received this question from readers and figured it is widely applicable for several styles of bags. Lastly, there’s no better testament to item quality and longevity than finding an old bag in excellent condition. The older leathers also feel different from those in-stores now even for the same styles – I don’t know what the difference is exactly, but it feels less treated/coated. Personally, I prefer buying such bags on the second-hand market for greater color and style selection, plus added character.

These also were the most popular colors that I came across in my search – British tan (the caramel brown), navy, red, hunter green (love it), black, and dark chocolate brown (not pictured above)… Image sources: my own, Google images, and here

Vintage coach purse