Prada briefcase: outlet versus full retail

[Caligula]

Hello everyone!


I am shouting out to all Prada enthusiasts. I have been thinking about buying a Prada men’s bag for quite some time now, however, I wasn’t really sure which model I want to go for. Recently, I have finally made a decision and ordered a slim prada briefcase (as can be seen on the attached photos) in nylon retailing for €1250, which is quite a lot for a non-leather bag. However, some days ago, I visited the Prada outlet here in Austria (belonging to the McArthurGlenn-group) and was more than happy to see that the bag I chose is actually available there for -50% off (retail: €620). Sadly, I forgot my wallet that day and wasn’t able to buy it; however, I made some photos to compare it to the bag I ordered (I haven’t removed the tags yet; therefore, it can still be returned).

Apparently, the bag itsis 1:1 the same, however, I noticed a significant difference regarding the part of the strap which is attached to the bag. On the full-retail version, it is a clipped clasp (as on almost every other prada bag); on the outlet version, the clasp is buttoned. After a web search, I have to say that I haven’t found the outlet’s version of the strap in any online shop.



Designers often produce goods which are solely sold in their outlets (especially in the case of Gucci) can anybody tell me, whether this is also the case for this prada bag? Or is it just the way the strap used to look in their older seasons?

I am fully aware of the fact that this is just a detail, but I do not want a bag that can be distinguished as an outlet product at a first glance by connoisseurs - especially since this would be my first designer bag.



I would be more than grateful to receive some input from some prada enthusiasts - thank you in advance!



Caligula

attached photos:
1) outlet version
2) outlet version
3) full retail version

 

[MarkWoo]

I think it is for outlet only and I’m not sure the shoulder strap is removable. If you don’t mind that I think for the price it is really good deal. But outlet bag is probably made in China FYI. One more little thing is the zipper of outlet bag is plastic. That makes it look cheap in my opinion.
this is outlet bag I found in other forum.

 

[Caligula]

Thank you very much for your interesting reply! You are absolutely right, I’ve just checked other photos I took of the bag and the zippers aren’t made from metal, what gives the bag a cheaper look. I have to admit that I am quite disappointed, I thought that this would be a great steal, but I would honestly never buy outlet-only products, even though the difference is admittedly neglectable as in this case. The buttoned attachment of the strap definitely is removable but gives the bag a different look as well..



Do you know whether there usually is a sale period on the official prada homepage?



Anyway, thanks a lot for your reply!



Caligula

 

[miksha91]

Hey there! I have a similar question. I recently set out to purchase my first Prada bag as my collection only consists of LV and Gucci. The big stand alone Prada store in our city was temporarily closed since that area was shut down due to Covid restrictions. The only other place that was open and had a Prada store was Toronto Premium Outlets. I went there and settled on two bags I really liked. Unfortunately, the sales reps there were little to no help. I expected this after reading the online reviews before heading in but none of them were able to tell me anything about either bag (when I managed to finally get ones attention). I’ve attached a picture of the bag along with the tag. Does anyone know if this is a “made for outlet” bag or if it is from a previous seasons collection? The only thing that pops up when I type in the code “1BD200” is the second Poshmark picture I attached (which is not mine). As you can see it has a similar structure but the hardware is very very different. Just like you I really hope I didn’t get a “made for outlet only” bag. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!