Is it real leather? If you are able to hold the bags, take a discreet sniff of the interior. Does it smell like real leather? Or kindof plastic-like?

Is the interior a high quality? The inside should be durable and feel like a good material. Since these are designer, they are made very, very well and shouldnt have any signs of a weak interior.

Metal on the bags. If there are metal studs or anything on the bag, be sure to tap them with your fingernail. They should sound hard, like real metal. They should not sound hollow or like a hard plastic.

The tag. While shopping, locate the tag. Misspelled designer names are a dead give away. But also be on the lookout for a “Made in China” type tags. Those are not in authentic handbags.

Where is it sold? Only buy from authorized sellers. Like department stores or the company’s outlet.

I think that hard leather lasts longer and keeps its shape more than a soft handbag. After being out all day with the bag under your arm, you wouldnt want to see a crease. Coach and Louis Vuitton handbags are made to last a long time, and needless to say, are very well made.

I hope this helps you with your search!
–Kayla