Unlocking the Goyard Mystery: How to Authenticate the Goyard St. Louis Tote
Goyard bags are synonymous with exclusivity, and while they follow a selective sales approach, the Goyard St. Louis tote has captured the hearts of celebrities and handbag enthusiasts worldwide. This versatile, lightweight, and highly functional tote has become a favorite. If you’re in the market for a pre-owned Goyard bag and want to ensure authenticity while spotting potential fakes, you’re in the right place. Before delving into the authentication process, let’s explore some key facts about the brand and the iconic St. Louis tote.
The Goyard Essentials: Brand Basics and the Saint Louis Tote
Goyard, with only 36 boutiques worldwide (including 6 in the US), doesn’t sell directly online. They may offer distance order services, but it requires completing a form on their official website and getting in touch with them.
The Goyard Saint Louis tote, available in two sizes: PM and GM, comes in 11 stunning colors: Black, Black & Tan, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Sky Blue, Navy Blue, Burgundy, White, and Grey.
1) Size & Weight: A Foundation for Authenticity
Counterfeiters often struggle with getting the sizes and proportions right, relying on images rather than authentic bags. Ensure the following dimensions for the Goyard St Louis tote:
- PM Bag: 11 in x 5.9 in x 13.4 in (28 cm x 15 cm x 34 cm)
- GM Bag: 13.4 in x 7.9 in x 15.7 in (34 cm x 20 cm x 40 cm)
Real Goyard St Louis totes are incredibly lightweight due to their materials, with a resin-coated canvas exterior and cotton/linen interior.
- PM Bag Weight: 250g
- GM Bag Weight: 350g
2) The Chevron Goyardine Print: A Telltale Sign of Authenticity
Goyard’s printing process evolved in 2006, transitioning from hand-painting every dot to mechanized etching and dye layering. Authenticating the Chevron Goyardine print requires careful attention to detail:
- The texture should resemble hand-painting, with a bumpy feel.
- The dotted pattern and letters should be clear and sharp, not flat or scribbled.
- Colors should be vivid, with no dullness or discoloration.
3) Stitching: Unveiling Quality Craftsmanship
Pay close attention to the color of the stitching:
- Black Goyard bags have black stitching; all other colors feature white stitching.
- Genuine stitching is even and spaced uniformly.
- Authentic Goyard bags feature square stitching, while replicas often have rectangular stitching. Sloppy, messy stitching is a red flag for fakes.
4) Heat Stamping: The Mark of Authenticity
Genuine Goyard bags have subtle, consistent heat stamping on the interior:
- The stamping should include “Goyard,” “Paris,” and “Made in France.”
- The font is narrower but uniformly spaced and easy to read.
- Fake Goyard bags may have deeper stamping and varying font sizes.
5) Serial Number: The Authenticity Indicator
All genuine Goyard items should have a serial number:
- The placement varies based on the year and model.
- Genuine Goyard serial numbers feature 3 letters and 6 digits.
- Fonts and typography vary by series and year.
6) Hardware / Button: Paying Attention to Details
Goyard’s minimalistic hardware can offer valuable clues for authentication:
- The button on genuine Goyard pouches is exquisitely constructed, with clear logo and lettering.
- Authentic “G” on the front of the button is thinner.
7) Lining: The Hidden Side of Authenticity
The inside canvas of a Goyard bag, comprised of natural fibers, presents unique characteristics:
- The braid is uneven, with small holes and knots from weaving.
- Genuine lining is unbleached; an overly white inner canvas is a red flag.
8) Packaging: The Final Authentication Touch
A well-preserved authentic Goyard bag includes specific packaging elements:
- A yellow dust bag made of cotton (not slippery polyester).
- A yellow cloth within the pouch.
- A Goyard book and tags.
- Authentic lettering on the dust bag differs from replicas.
