Vera Bradley started selling it's handbags and accessories in 1985.  It issues new patterns every year, with the older patterns retiring.  The Vera Bradley web site lists every pattern that's been issued and which ones are retired.

To ensure that you're buying the real thing - whether new or used...or a just-released or retired pattern - familiarize yourself with the Vera web site so that you know the features of each type of bag (such as number of pockets) and the details for each pattern (exterior and interior fabrics). 

Vera Bradley does not allow retailers to sell on eBay.  Therefore, the items offered on eBay are typically through the secondary market - either resellers who have purchased from retailers, or consumers selling extra goods.  Vera Bradley also hosts an annual Outlet Sale at their headquarters in Ft. Wayne, IN, which is where many sellers pick up their inventory at reduced rates; allowing them to resell for a profit.

Fakes and/or incomplete items are relatively easy to determine.  Here are a few helpful hints:

• All Vera bags feature a fabric zipper pull(s).  Older, retired patterns used the same fabric as the bag for the pull.  Newer bags (including some already retired fabrics) feature a ribbon with the Vera Bradley logo.  The ribbon matches the fabric and the same color ribbon is used for each piece issued in that fabric; so beware, for example, of a Piccadilly Plum bag with a red or black ribbon zipper pull - all Piccadilly Plum patterns were issued with burgundy zipper pulls. 
• Fake Zip ID cases are typically missing the key ring with the Vera Bradley logo - a difficult item for them to replicate.  Either that, or they've used them to make something else for resale, so you're not receiving a complete item.
• All Vera bags, etc. have the Vera label inside and/or outside, with the logo also discreetly placed somewhere in the fabric on the front of most bags/items.
• Confirm that the pattern is listed on the Vera web site and is an exact match.
• If in doubt, compare it to other listings on eBay - from sellers with good feedback.
• Check the features of the item against the description on the Vera site to ensure they match.
• If buying used, make sure that the bag still has the cardboard insert (if it was originally included) so that it will continue to retain it's shape.  Make sure it's complete before you spend your $$s!
• The Vera site states that they do not sell fabric by the yard.  Many sellers make items out of Vera napkins, PJ bottoms, etc. for resale which is use of authentic fabric.  If you're buying fabric by the piece, check the seller feedback to ensure it's authentic.

I'm not affiliated with Vera Bradley, but love their merchandise.  I am not an expert and this shouldn't be construed as expert advice; it's just based on my own personal experiences and is intended only as a guide. 

I hope you found this helpful.  Thanks for looking!!