The handles and the leather
The handles of Louis Vuitton bags are made with Vachette leather. It’s a cowhide that has a rich honey color that darkens over time. When the leather is exposed to use, heat, air, and time, it changes color. The same is not true of a knock off. If you’re considering buying a vintage bag at an estate sale or estate auction, and it has bright new looking handles, its a fake. Louis Vuitton considers the natural change of the color of their leather to be a badge of honor…like a great leather jacket that gets better with age.