Why Do People Buy Fake Designer Bags Or Fake Designer Anything?

[ladysarah]

How can you judge anyone? Purchasing a known fake bag is one thing but some people have ZERO clue about fashion, labels, where a bag is made etc. Some people couldn't point to Italy or France on a map no less know where an authentic bag is made or know it's retail price.


I personally do not purchase fake bags because I can afford to buy designer (blessed & thankful to have an income that many people don't have) nor do I agree with the practices of some fake bag makers BUT I do not sit around analyzing others accessories enough to notice nor pass judgment on them.


Most women get pizzed off when they see a fake bag (other than the obvious) because they paid $1000s & someone else paid $30. Not to mention that person maybe trying to pass it off as authentic & didn't "earn" that right hence cheapening their own status bag.

As someone else said here: "Stay in Your Lane". I think that sums up The REAL reason most people get their britches in a twist & hide behind "Slave Labor! "Child Labor Abuse!"...

I have no idea what you mean by that. Would you mind clarifying? And no I don't think that the reason people don't like fakes is because they paid £1000s while others paid $30. Maybe you think that, but I can assure you that I don't.

 

[MSO13]

How can you judge anyone? Purchasing a known fake bag is one thing but some people have ZERO clue about fashion, labels, where a bag is made etc. Some people couldn't point to Italy or France on a map no less know where an authentic bag is made or know it's retail price.


I personally do not purchase fake bags because I can afford to buy designer (blessed & thankful to have an income that many people don't have) nor do I agree with the practices of some fake bag makers BUT I do not sit around analyzing others accessories enough to notice nor pass judgment on them.


Most women get pizzed off when they see a fake bag (other than the obvious) because they paid $1000s & someone else paid $30. Not to mention that person maybe trying to pass it off as authentic & didn't "earn" that right hence cheapening their own status bag.

As someone else said here: "Stay in Your Lane". I think that sums up The REAL reason most people get their britches in a twist & hide behind "Slave Labor! "Child Labor Abuse!"...

You might want to follow your own advice and stay in your lane.

I'm happy here in my lane. I live in the real world where we're all judging and being judged all the time. I'm judged, sometimes quite harshly on this very forum for wearing fur, buying luxury leather goods, buying exotic skins etc. I've been told that my purchases are "crazy", had my bag purchases shamed because of all the good that I could do in the world with that same money. I've watched members of this forum pass judgment on every other member. You know what, to each their own. It's a public site and they can say what they want.

You're judging me and several other posters in this thread, making assumptions that I'm somehow bitter because I own the real thing and I'm "pizzed" off by fakes. You're totally wrong but that's ok. I don't sit around analyzing anyone's purchases, I'm too busy working for what I have. But the reason I posted in this thread months ago is that several people were defending the decision to buy fakes. I judged them for doing something illegal, stealing intellectual property and for being posers. I stand by that judgement. I'm not hiding behind the illegality of the counterfeit industry. Your assumption is shallow and says more about you than me and the people here speaking about the terrible practices of the counterfeit industry.

So how about you pause for a moment and think about what you're defending? You're defending someone's right to buy illegal, stolen work and exempt them from judgment. That's so big of you.

 

[Shelby33]

I think that outright fakes are here to stay unfortunately. Some people aren't that well educated about how and where they are made. Others are and just don't care.

The truth is most people don't give much thought to handbags at all.

 

[CassieH]

I think the point is how you actually see yourself not how others see you. Most people I come across, would not know how much my bag was or if it was 'authentic' and I doubt they d care. I am the one who has to live with me, so to speak and I try to make choices that don't have a negative impact on anyone else's life ( and eventually mine as well, these things come round) big brands are not in the business of promoting ethics, they want to sell their goods, for the most profit and play on people's insecurities. It's up to the individual to decide ones own worth.

Assume all of my posts come with a "IMHO" disclaimer and they're not objective facts...but it's answering the thread questions based on personal experience

 

[CassieH]

You might want to follow your own advice and stay in your lane.

I'm happy here in my lane. I live in the real world where we're all judging and being judged all the time. I'm judged, sometimes quite harshly on this very forum for wearing fur, buying luxury leather goods, buying exotic skins etc. I've been told that my purchases are "crazy", had my bag purchases shamed because of all the good that I could do in the world with that same money. I've watched members of this forum pass judgment on every other member. You know what, to each their own. It's a public site and they can say what they want.

You're judging me and several other posters in this thread, making assumptions that I'm somehow bitter because I own the real thing and I'm "pizzed" off by fakes. You're totally wrong but that's ok. I don't sit around analyzing anyone's purchases, I'm too busy working for what I have. But the reason I posted in this thread months ago is that several people were defending the decision to buy fakes. I judged them for doing something illegal, stealing intellectual property and for being posers. I stand by that judgement. I'm not hiding behind the illegality of the counterfeit industry. Your assumption is shallow and says more about you than me and the people here speaking about the terrible practices of the counterfeit industry.

So how about you pause for a moment and think about what you're defending? You're defending someone's right to buy illegal, stolen work and exempt them from judgment. That's so big of you.

It probably wasn't fun for you to go through with being judged for others for your purchases...but
can one believe that it is possible to disagree with the act of buying fake bags without prescribing labels on the person?

Or if you do prescribe labels or names, can one give the most generous assumption about others even when they are making choices you disagree with? It's not saying that you disagreeing with them is wrong per se, but I think assuming the best of people usually helps deteriorate a lot of negative feelings. Generally, it's better for the brain.

If people's conscious are clear after buying fake bags, it isn't any much of my business nor did they ask for my opinions. I know in my heart I will never intentionally buy an illegal counterfeit bag as a consumer, and that's not really others' business either

And when another TFP member gets hate or judgement for their purchases, perhaps the best thing to say is "I acknowledge your disapproval and thank you for taking the time to raise awareness to causes you believe in on this forum. But beyond that, my decision is my decision." No need to apologize for your purchasing choices. I hope that soften the blows for you, hmm...perhaps try this tactic for next time if you get criticized next time. Good luck!

It's up to the governments and wealthy brand names to combat fakes, if the companies only care about the bottom line...they should care about that as well.

 

[loogirl]

Exactly, this thread keeps going off the rails. Not inspired, not contemporary or fast fashion copies, not outlets. Counterfeit, illegal bags.

It's all well and good for everyone to go on about not passing judgement but I do judge those that purchase fakes either knowingly or out of naïveté.

Fast fashion and most brand stuff nowadays is made in the same types of factories as fakes, so they aren't morally superior in any way. The whole fashion and clothing industry is shady as eff and no one here can sit up on a high horse, since most are shopaholics fueling this machine.

 

[Jewels24]

Fast fashion and most brand stuff nowadays is made in the same types of factories as fakes, so they aren't morally superior in any way. The whole fashion and clothing industry is shady as eff and no one here can sit up on a high horse, since most are shopaholics fueling this machine.

I completely disagree. While I do acknowledge it is likely/possible that some fast fashion brands utilize questionable manufacturing practices, counterfeit purchases are much more morally reprehensible. Just a few key points- counterfeit goods are known to be used in drug human and weapon trafficking, utilized by terrorist groups to raise funds, operate without abiding to any/all laws, regulations and taxes/fees and not to mention the large amount of legitimate jobs that are taken away by the sale of counterfeit goods.

Further, your generalizing statement that "most shopaholics are fueling this machine" makes a huge assumption about the spending habits of "most" shoppers; not to mention that it is based entirely on the veracity of your first statement that brand name clothing is the same, on a moral level, as counterfeit goods, a statement I have already refuted.

A large portion of my clothing wardrobe is Brunello Cucinelli, a designer who not only uses favourable practices and employs most of his home town, but invites clients to tour his manufacturing facility. May I suggest that if you have an issue with regular brands that you consider brands like Cucinelli who employ more favourable practices.

 

[helenhandbag]

While I think everyone can wear whatever they want and I don't want to judge, I do have a problem with cheap fakes as they're usually made under appalling conditions (sweatshops, child labour etc) and sometimes sold by people put under major pressure (street salespeople in some European countries for example). I know this from having worked in the fashion industry. usually I'll ask if people are aware of this, and most of the time, they're not.
I think it's important that people are aware of what they're supporting with their purchases. If they don't care, I do mind but ultimately it's their choice. But we can all try to educate and suggest getting better made alternatives within anyone's budget.

 

[MSO13]

It probably wasn't fun for you to go through with being judged for others for your purchases...but
can one believe that it is possible to disagree with the act of buying fake bags without prescribing labels on the person?

Or if you do prescribe labels or names, can one give the most generous assumption about others even when they are making choices you disagree with? It's not saying that you disagreeing with them is wrong per se, but I think assuming the best of people usually helps deteriorate a lot of negative feelings. Generally, it's better for the brain.

If people's conscious are clear after buying fake bags, it isn't any much of my business nor did they ask for my opinions. I know in my heart I will never intentionally buy an illegal counterfeit bag as a consumer, and that's not really others' business either

And when another TFP member gets hate or judgement for their purchases, perhaps the best thing to say is "I acknowledge your disapproval and thank you for taking the time to raise awareness to causes you believe in on this forum. But beyond that, my decision is my decision." No need to apologize for your purchasing choices. I hope that soften the blows for you, hmm...perhaps try this tactic for next time if you get criticized next time. Good luck!

It's up to the governments and wealthy brand names to combat fakes, if the companies only care about the bottom line...they should care about that as well.

It always astounds me when this thread turns into the "nice police". My post wasn't rude or angry or directed at you and yet here you are trying to analyze my psychological responses, incorrectly I might add. For what? To tell me to be less judgemental? I don't need your nonsensical post about thanking people for their rudeness though I suspect you expected me to thank you for your psycho-babble. Rather then analyzing posts, perhaps you should do some research from up on your high horse of non judgment superiority.

But you asked a question, can one buy fakes without being labeled? NO, they are criminals. Either intentionally or unknowingly but it is illegal. I'm not labeling fake buyers to be petty or because I'm so judgmental. It's illegal! Why is everyone defending this??

It's up to consumers to make the industry fail, if there is no demand then the business goes away. Government and the brands that have been fighting for years but it's the people that buy that get in the way.

So thank you for reminding me why I try to stay out of this thread because everyone worries about painting themselves in a flattering light of serene non judgment and says fakes and their buyers are ok. I say differently and I'm the one who is attacked and judged. Bye!

 

[MSO13]

Fast fashion and most brand stuff nowadays is made in the same types of factories as fakes, so they aren't morally superior in any way. The whole fashion and clothing industry is shady as eff and no one here can sit up on a high horse, since most are shopaholics fueling this machine.

Illegal is still illegal, I'm not on a high horse. I'm an informed consumer who researches materials, country of origin and decide for myself who I will support. I suggest anyone do the same.

 

[LLC]

So how about you pause for a moment and think about what you're defending? You're defending someone's right to buy illegal, stolen work and exempt them from judgment. That's so big of you.

Lol. Did you not read where I said I don't support illegal bags? I. said. it. 3. times.

I have no idea what you mean by that. Would you mind clarifying? And no I don't think that the reason people don't like fakes is because they paid £1000s while others paid $30. Maybe you think that, but I can assure you that I don't.

Someone else said (on the last page) they prefer people to "stay in their own lane" as far as buying designer goods goes...

Can one believe that it is possible to disagree with the act of buying fake bags without prescribing labels on the person?

Yes. That's all I meant by it.

 

[MSO13]

Lol. Did you not read where I said I don't support illegal bags? I. said. it. 3. times.



Someone else said (on the last page) they prefer people to "stay in their own lane" as far as buying designer goods goes...



Yes. That's all I meant by it.

I must have missed it during your finger wagging, head shaking scolding of my judgement. You can see how one might be confused by you trying to put me on blast for being judge-y and bitter because I own the real thing.

Your post reads like you're defending those poor fake bag carriers from judgement of strangers on the Internet. Sounds pretty supportive to me.

Again, why can't this topic stay on fakes? why must members of this forum continually try to appear morally superior in defense of something that is both illegal and immoral. I don't care how many people think my judgement is "wrong" it's my OPINION and I'm entitled to express it constructively as long as it pertains to the topic of the thread.

 

[Shelby33]

I'm wondering what we can do about this besides not buying fakes?
Also someone mentioned checking clothing for country of origin, does this mean checking the label inside?

 

[Carrierae]

I still don't understand the point of this post? Is it to really understand why others buy fakes, or is it to cause judgement, mockery, or tear down?

Obviously, everyone has their own reason. I don't care either way. I refuse to judge someone who has a fake just because they don't know any better. Maybe they just thought they got a really good deal? I don't know....when I was in college, I almost bought a designer bag on eBay...I thought it was a really good "deal" and didn't know they were fakes. It was still a lot of money at the time, and I decided not to. I'm so glad I did because now I'm confident those were fakes.

I'm not going to pass judgement on those who just don't know any better. I expect the ladies on the forum to know better because this is their hobby....of course they know the difference, but I don't expect someone who is not infatuated with handbags to know the difference or really care.

If you want to pass judgement, that is your own choice. Since this is MY opinion, I am far more likely to pass judgement on ladies who max out their credit cards for their "collection" or live in a double wide or trailer yet has over 20 or so LVs (which I've seen on this forum). Yes, poooor ladies for getting judged for their designer bags. If you look like trash and I'm passing you, I'm going to assume your bag is fake...I'm not even going to care to look or evaluate. You might throw a fit on this forum over others buying fake, but I'm not going to even give your real bag a fighting chance if you don't look the part. If you carry a fake or a low end bag, I don't care either...I probably won't even notice. The only ones that get my attention are the ones I admire from a far. Anything else is just white noise.

Yes, I also buy designer and no fakes. I currently love Mulberry and Chloe. You can judge me thinking that I can't "afford" other bags because I like a particular brand...but I would just smile and think, "that's sweet." My world and passions go well beyond the spectrum of handbags and you'll never see 1,000+ posts under my username.

 

[Shelby33]

I still don't understand the point of this post? Is it to really understand why others buy fakes, or is it to cause judgement, mockery, or tear down?

Obviously, everyone has their own reason. I don't care either way. I refuse to judge someone who has a fake just because they don't know any better. Maybe they just thought they got a really good deal? I don't know....when I was in college, I almost bought a designer bag on eBay...I thought it was a really good "deal" and didn't know they were fakes. It was still a lot of money at the time, and I decided not to. I'm so glad I did because now I'm confident those were fakes.

I'm not going to pass judgement on those who just don't know any better. I expect the ladies on the forum to know better because this is their hobby....of course they know the difference, but I don't expect someone who is not infatuated with handbags to know the difference or really care.

If you want to pass judgement, that is your own choice. Since this is MY opinion, I am far more likely to pass judgement on ladies who max out their credit cards for their "collection" or live in a double wide or trailer yet has over 20 or so LVs (which I've seen on this forum). Yes, poooor ladies for getting judged for their designer bags. If you look like trash and I'm passing you, I'm going to assume your bag is fake...I'm not even going to care to look or evaluate. You might throw a fit on this forum over others buying fake, but I'm not going to even give your real bag a fighting chance if you don't look the part. If you carry a fake or a low end bag, I don't care either...I probably won't even notice. The only ones that get my attention are the ones I admire from a far. Anything else is just white noise.

Yes, I also buy designer and no fakes. I currently love Mulberry and Chloe. You can judge me thinking that I can't "afford" other bags because I like a particular brand...but I would just smile and think, "that's sweet." My world and passions go well beyond the spectrum of handbags and you'll never see 1,000+ posts under my username.

Judging by OP's first post yes, her aim was to pass judgement, and it wasn't because of child labor or the funding of terrorism. While good points concerning legalities have come up, this point has also been used to justify judging other people's choice of handbag. Like I said before, most people just don't give that much thought to handbags.
Also, in 7 days this thread will be 10 years old.