So, you're strolling though your local thrift store when you come upon a bag that looks like Louis Vuitton.  Could it be real?  Could you really have found a bag worth hundreds or even thousands for only a few bucks? Beginner's Guide to Authenticating L ouis Vuitton Here are 3 quick things you can look for to rule out the obvious Louis Vuitton fakes.  Please keep in mind that there are always exceptions to every rule and getting your bag  professionally authenticated  is always best. Is my Louis Vuitton Real or Fake? 1) QUALITY First look at the overall  quality.  While there may be imperfections here and there depending on where and when it was made - the overall quality of authentic LV should be good and should be reflective of a luxury brand.   So, plastic looking parts and sloppy paint jobs should not be present. Good quality also includes proper alignment of the monogram pattern. Louis Vuitton artisans will line up the monogram patt...