Is it rude to ask...

When you ask somebody where they got it and say something in a complimenting way then there's nothing wrong with that. I hate when people ask me - is that real? How much did that cost? That's TACKY:yucky:
 
I agree that it would be a compliment. I think that perhaps the people who act so bothered might be carrying fakes? I do this even with inexpensive bags--found out abt the J Crew madras bag that I love this way (and would have never known, b/c I don't shop at J Crew).
 
I think it'd be a little awkward to ask someone in person how much their purse was, but not weird online. To ask what it is, no matter in person or online would make them feel warm and fuzzy inside that someone loves their bag as much as they do :}