Look beyond the front photograph. A handbag's usefulness depends on its lining, fastenings, handles, strap attachments and dimensions as well as its outside appearance. Ask about repairs and alterations before assuming a low-priced bag will be easy to restore.
The aim here is to understand condition and everyday usability. It is not a designer-bag authentication guide or a valuation service.
Inspect the bag from the outside in
| Area | Evidence to request | Why it matters to your decision |
|---|---|---|
| Base and corners | Clear close-ups of every corner and the underside | A front photo can hide the areas with visible wear |
| Handles and strap attachments | Each attachment and the underside of handles | Damage or repairs may affect how you intend to carry it |
| Fastenings | Confirmation that each zip, clasp and snap works | A good-looking bag may not close as expected |
| Lining and pockets | The open interior, pocket corners and seams | You may otherwise miss tears, marks or separation |
| Hardware and edges | Close-ups of scratches, edge finish and replaced parts | You can decide which visible changes you accept |
| Size and carrying length | Width, height, depth and strap-drop details | “Small” and “crossbody” are not measurements |
For an example of detailed disclosure, Mulberry's own pre-loved listing describes lining, hardware and edge wear rather than relying on an overall label. It is an example of the information to seek, not a condition standard that certifies other bags.
Check what you need to fit inside
Make a short list of the objects you actually carry. Measure an awkward item, such as a laptop sleeve or glasses case, rather than relying on the bag's category name. External dimensions are useful but do not guarantee the internal opening or usable space.
Ask whether the opening is narrower than the body and whether internal dividers take up space. For a shoulder or crossbody bag, distinguish the total strap length from the strap drop—the gap from the top of the bag to the inside peak of the strap when held up. Ask how it was measured, and for the shortest and longest setting if adjustable. Compare with a bag you carry comfortably. A listing photograph on another person cannot predict where the bag will sit on you.
Ask what has been changed
Repairs are not automatically a reason to reject a bag. What matters is knowing what was done and whether it suits your expectations. Ask about restitching, recolouring, replacement straps, repaired handles, changed hardware or lining work. Request photographs of the altered area.
Coach's restored-bag descriptions provide an example of disclosing restoration work. A repair disclosure is information; it does not establish that all brands offer the same restoration service or accept every pre-owned item.
Do not budget for an imaginary repair
If your plan depends on fixing a fault, obtain an appropriate repair assessment and estimate before buying. Tell the repairer the material, location and extent of the damage, and share the seller's photographs with permission where needed.
Coach's repair information illustrates why assumptions are risky: repairability is assessed and services have limits. That US service page does not promise South African service availability, costs or turnaround for your purchase.
Use three cost lines: the confirmed checkout amount, a repair estimate if needed, and any collection or assessment expense. Keep an unknown repair cost marked “unknown”; zero is not a neutral estimate. Our delivered-cost worksheet explains the comparison.
A useful seller message
Suggested message—not a real buyer review:
Hi! Could you add photos of the base corners, lining, handle attachments and any repaired areas? Do all the zips and clasps work? Please also confirm the dimensions, strap drop and whether any parts have been replaced or recoloured.
Smell, texture and some concealed defects cannot be established through images. Ask about anything important to you, and recognise what remains uncertain. Condition information and authenticity evidence are separate; this checklist does not validate a brand claim.