Look closely to spot the perfect rows of even stitching on a genuine MCM belt. Feel the belt for fraying and look for discoloration along the edges, which might suggest poor quality. You can buy authentic MCM belts at MCM stores, on their website, and at retailers like Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Your belt will come in a small white bag to protect it from damage.

The serial number should start with 103 and the second line should begin with MX. Read where the belt was made. MCM belts made in the last 20 years should say that they were manufactured in Korea. If your belt was made somewhere else, keep checking to determine if it’s genuine.

Lots of MCM belts come in the classic cognac color, although you can find authentic belts that are black, white, or olive green.

Check the logo that’s on the bottom right corner of the buckle as well as the logos on the belt.

Look at the end of the belt—authentic belts end with the logo, not the curved diamond.

If you can’t flip the buckle around to reverse the belt, it’s probably an imitation.

Imitation buckles usually have a square hinge with only 1 screw. It may feel bulkier, too. This affects the way the belt stays in place. If there are no teeth, it’s more likely to slide around.

Most imitation buckles are also slightly wider than genuine MCM buckles. If the buckle seems too big, it might not be authentic.