Copy this: an authenticity check of high-end handbags.

You might think that a counterfeit handbag could only be found on the street--sold by hustlers or con men looking to make a fast dollar, Unfortunately, you could be just as easily taken when you shop in a boutique. Such occurrences, however, could be avoided if you know what to look for. Helen Shelton, executive vice president of Ruder Finn Arts & Communications Counselors Inc., owns an assortment of more than 50 authentic handbags. She started her collection 11 years ago, buying a new handbag at the change of each season. The purse guru scoffs at knock-offs and imitations and says beg enthusiasts should shop at major department stores and brand boutiques, as well as consult a trusted salesperson before making purchases. Shelton offers some additional tips:

Look carefully; "Train your eyes," she suggests. "You need to look at the consistency of the fabric, the lining the stitching, where and how the logo is positioned, and the hardware on the bag." Knockoffs are very rarely quality consistent. The stitching may be inadequate or a logo might be glued or pasted in place.

Check certification: Most high-end bags have authenticity cards and most designers' Websites will describe what to look for before you make a purchase. If your bag doesn't come with a card or meet designer standards, it may be a fake.

"I enjoy my bags," says Shelton, "I look at my handbag purchases as investments into my lifestyle."

<<Classic Crystal>>

"Classic" is how Maggy Siegel, CEO of Judith Leiber, describes the company's handbags. Every handbag has a matching coin purse, a two-sided framed mirror, a comb, and a registration card. These elegant handbags range from $1,000-$5,000 and are sold exclusively at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Marshall Field's in Chicago, Bloomingdale's, and the five Judith Leiber store locations. The customer helpline is 886-542-7167. This Moulin Rouge minaudiere with crystals in silver satin retails for $4,250.

<<Swinging the Blues>>

Lana Marks handbags are known for their fine and exotic leather compositions and are often clutched in the arms of celebrities. Oprah Winfrey, Queen Latifah, and Angela Bassett are just a few. An authenticity mark of original bags can be found on the inside pocket of each handbag. There, a gold plate reads "Made in Italy." These charming accessories range from $1,000 to 20,000 and can be found exclusively at Lana Marks boutiques. This alligator Lana Marks Jet Tote, featured above, is $7,205.

<<Suede Satchel>>

Salvatore Ferragamo products embody style and sophistication and are marked by impeccable craftsmanship and keen attention to detail in the Florentine tradition. These chic handbags should bear a "Made In Italy" label on the inside. They range from $400-$5,000 and can be purchased exclusively at Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom's, a few retail shops, and privately owned boutiques, For customer service, call 800-628-8916. This suede satchel goes for $725.