Replica Designer Items

[blueblueindigo]

I don’t think anyone said designer brands are without criticism.

And no, flexing an animal skin probably cannot be considered truly ethical, but the point is that it is more ethical than saying “well duck it, an animal had to die for this bag so I’ll buy the cheaper fake one that also had an animal die for it, probably in less humane ways, a copied design so less people got paid for it, stiched together by trafficked children in a health hazard warehouse, paying to support a drug baron who murders people”.

This argument will NEVER make sense to me.

You just need to google "luxury fashion slavery" and up will pop numerous articles using research by Fashion Revolution highlighting issues with transparency over whether their supply chains are fairly paid and non-exploited. This concerns European factories too, not just places like China. I'm not ignoring that the Replica market has even less transparency and assurance, but this thread basically turned into people being rather snobbish at other women who too are living in a society where these designer goods are aspirational, it's like knocking down women for getting plastic surgery without addressing cultural norms about women ageing and men's ideals. Both designer and counterfeit production have issues yet there is very little introspection about the designer side.

I love the Cartier love bracelets but can't justify the price.

I've had a look at DH Gate and there are loads of replicas that look pretty good. Has anyone else bought one from there?

Probably not what you are looking for, but Etsy has a lot of options for flat gold bangles if it doesn't need to be a replica?

 

[Readread]

Hi all. Just found this thread.. I've not purchased a bag but I have purchased a load of fake clothes and accessories from TaoBao after having a friend fill me in on how she manages to constantly have pricey clothes and accessories whilst not earning a massive salary lol..

The bits are all v good quality, process was fairly easy, basically copy and pasting the link to the item from taobao into superbuy (shipping agent) and then superbuy sends you photos of the item once it arrives in their China warehouse, you check the item meets your needs and then you tell them to ship it over. They declare the value of items as like $12 for customs purposes (have to pay import tax on anything above like $20 usd or something).

It arrived within a week-10 days ish, mostly decent stuff, even comes in original packaging etc. Most the stuff on TaoBao has reviews too similar to amazon so you can weed out the tit stuff. Learning how to reverse image search on tb is key too!!

Happy to answer any q's here or pm me!

Not sure why the top rated posts on here are all people on their high horse about a few people buying knock-offs. I know rich people and poor people who buy fakes, so often its not a case of 'you cant afford the real thing' I think they're having the last laugh because quite often these days the real designer items aren't worth anywhere close to what they charge for them!

And I know people like to talk about 'you don't know the factory conditions where they make these fakes' etc.. I hope you buy all locally sourced organic ethical fairtrade food and meat that isn't from a factory farm and trainers that weren't made by a child in India for 50p etc. There's likely just as much shadiness in the replica designer world as there is in any widely known low-end clothing manufacturing etc

X

Edit: in fact PM me if you have questions or wanna talk replicas lol.. I had a read of the rest of this thread and I think some people really have their backs up about others' choices to buy fake stuff so I won't be revisiting. People get v upset about a couple bracelets and some leather bags ffs. Relax x

Any chance you can revisit the FleurDeForce thread though? Seeing as you didn't spill the tea there...

 

[Lanavalentine]

You just need to google "luxury fashion slavery" and up will pop numerous articles using research by Fashion Revolution highlighting issues with transparency over whether their supply chains are fairly paid and non-exploited. This concerns European factories too, not just places like China. I'm not ignoring that the Replica market has even less transparency and assurance, but this thread basically turned into people being rather snobbish at other women who too are living in a society where these designer goods are aspirational, it's like knocking down women for getting plastic surgery without addressing cultural norms about women ageing and men's ideals. Both designer and counterfeit production have issues yet there is very little introspection about the designer side.

Because that’s not what the thread was/is about. Posters criticised the purchase of replica goods and thus, those purchasers brought up the lack of ethical standards for designer goods in response. Nobody denies that legit fashion brands have worrying standards. However, they are not equally as bad as counterfeit goods, as I’ve said several times. It’s a false equivalency and a poor argument. One is bad, the other is much worse. I can’t keep saying it!

I agree there is probably a discussion to be had around the intense drive to purchase fake items because of the real thing’s aspirational status, but nobody who purchases counterfeit goods seems to recognise that (on this thread at least).

 

[superficialthings]

Supply and demand. That's what it comes down to. As long as there is a demand for luxury goods, and people who can afford it continue consuming massive amounts of "stuff," there will remain a black market for those that can't buy the real deal. We live in a society where success is measured by what you own - your house, car, clothing, bags, etc. We are always on a quest for a higher social status. Although I was unaware of how big the replica goods industry was until coming across this thread, it does not surprise me that so many people are purchasing counterfeit products to acquire or uphold an aspirational life.

I watched an interesting documentary a few months ago on Youtube about consumerism. They explained the idiom "keeping up with the Joneses" and where it came from. They talked about how the phrase really came to life in the 70s (if I'm remembering correctly) when consumerism in America was on the uprise, as the availability of goods was becoming stronger. People used their neighbors as a measure of who they should aspire to be like. The documentary talked about how at that time, you were striving to keep up with people in similar socioeconomic backgrounds, obviously because these were the people that were physically around you. Now, in 2021, everything is different. We have social media platforms that provide us with access to any and everyone. I can go on Instagram right now and see what the ultra-rich are buying and doing. I can go on Youtube and watch Kylie Jenner's closet tour and dream of Himalayan Birkin. The point is, the Joneses, are no longer just our neighbors. We are now comparing ourselves to literally everyone.

While I'm not trying to say that people who buy replicas are without culpability (although one could argue that many consumers are completely unaware of what their money is funding, as I am someone who never heard that fakes fund terrorism, etc.), I do think that we have to look at consumerism as a whole and discuss why we've made these things, which are literally just stitched leather with some embellishments, as a status symbol.

I think this topic is very fascinating, especially as I am currently attempting to become a more ethical consumer. Glad I came across this thread.

 

[Scorpihoe]

I love the Cartier love bracelets but can't justify the price.

I've had a look at DH Gate and there are loads of replicas that look pretty good. Has anyone else bought one from there?

you can buy any regular gold bracelet from the jewellers, from Etsy etc. Doesn’t have to be fake Cartier. Or if you really want a Cartier bracelet, there are some on the resell market you can look into that are more affordable

 

[DanaScully]

you can buy any regular gold bracelet from the jewellers, from Etsy etc. Doesn’t have to be fake Cartier. Or if you really want a Cartier bracelet, there are some on the resell market you can look into that are more affordable

Thanks. I like the design of the Cartier ones specifically, just haven't got £4000 spare to drop on one.

 

[Scorpihoe]

Thanks. I like the design of the Cartier ones specifically, just haven't got £4000 spare to drop on one.

Ah I see, sorry I can’t be much help. Have you looked into buying it at Heathrow? I think they might scrap the VAT there so it’ll be cheaper for you

 

[kgsd798]

Why are people judging the girls for the SB lifestyle when it’s old rich men paying for it, creating supply and demand?

it’s basic economics and I’m sick of females always being made out to be the offending site. Men are the trash.

 

[Lanavalentine]

Why are people judging the girls for the SB lifestyle when it’s old rich men paying for it, creating supply and demand?

it’s basic economics and I’m sick of females always being made out to be the offending site. Men are the trash.

Men are trash and will always seek to exploit women, I agree. That doesn’t mean all women who take part in that exploitation willingly and actively seek it out are without culpability in perpetuating it.

What I find gross is women attempting to sell this lifestyle to each other, as with the story posted earlier in the thread. That really shocked me because it was almost like propaganda. These are not women who are doing this out of financial need - it’s for entirely shallow reasons. They often think they’re exploiting a system that would still exist if they didn’t partake, but I’m not sure that’s true. I don’t think there is anything empowering about it personally, but that’s just me.

I also do judge people in general who are so caught up in chasing aspirational lifestyles that they’ll do anything to obtain designer bags, no matter how damaging or unethical (which I guess is what this thread is about!).

 

[xforeverlove21]

Men are trash and will always seek to exploit women, I agree. That doesn’t mean all women who take part in that exploitation willingly and actively seek it out are without culpability in perpetuating it.

Thank you!
These women have no self respect or shame. They are given the same opportunities as men are, yet chose to take the easy way out in life and do something that is dangerously close to prostitution. Yes the men are pigs but these women are the ones who join these websites and such seeking out such trash men so I guess in essence trash attracts trash. Both are equally bad. These women made the choice to leech off of men and for what...? I'm sorry but a Chanel bag (while doing this behind closed doors) does not buy you class nor dignity. At the end of the day if this is what you do to obtain luxury items then it's essentially worthless.
Agree with me or not but prostitutes absolutely get zero respect in my book.

 

[xforeverlove21]

What I find gross is women attempting to sell this lifestyle to each other, as with the story posted earlier in the thread.

Yasss! The fact that they all kept hyping each other over something so gross and then having other unsuspecting girls aspire to take the same route while they left out major things like how they have to have sex with old men in exchange for these gifts. Why can't they encourage each other to get an education, a good job and work hard for the money to obtain luxury. And TBH if the items are obtained in this manner it is so much more rewarding and you feel good about yourself meanwhile being given a Chanel bag in exchange for sexual favours... surely there can't be no pride in that. I'd feel too disgusted with myself even wearing it if thats how it was obtained.
I am not surprised that they were encouraging each other to partake in basically prostitution when they on a platform that discusses how to do already illegal and unethical things.

 

[xforeverlove21]

you can buy any regular gold bracelet from the jewellers, from Etsy etc. Doesn’t have to be fake Cartier. Or if you really want a Cartier bracelet, there are some on the resell market you can look into that are more affordable

There are also other versions of the love bracelet like the sm size or even the JUC sm which is more affordable.

how she manages to constantly have pricey clothes and accessories whilst not earning a massive salary lol..

And you guys really think that people won't be able to figure it out with this alone...?

 

[Scorpihoe]

There are also other versions of the love bracelet like the sm size or even the JUC sm which is more affordable.



And you guys really think that people won't be able to figure it out with this alone...?

totally agree! Someone made a great analogy here earlier that if you see a house or a car you can’t afford, you simply accept it’s out of your budget and move on to something within your price range. Why is it not the same for luxury items? Also I have a question for women who buy fakes - if someone “calls you out” or asks whether your item is real, do you say yes? Or do you admit it’s not?

 

[superficialthings]

totally agree! Someone made a great analogy here earlier that if you see a house or a car you can’t afford, you simply accept it’s out of your budget and move on to something within your price range. Why is it not the same for luxury items? Also I have a question for women who buy fakes - if someone “calls you out” or asks whether your item is real, do you say yes? Or do you admit it’s not?

I'm not sure what your financial background is, so maybe you are not around these types, but there are A LOT of people out there that buy homes and cars out of their price range. Have you ever heard of being "house poor"? It's when you buy a house out of your price range and are left without money to pay for other essential needs in your life. There are people who live with their parents at 30 just so they can own a luxury car to appear wealthy to their contemporaries.

Yes, many people accept things are out of their budget and move on. I'm that way and it sounds like you are too. But there is something deeply psychological/sociological happening in our society that is making people feel the need to create this false image by any means necessary.

 

[Its_Me]

totally agree! Someone made a great analogy here earlier that if you see a house or a car you can’t afford, you simply accept it’s out of your budget and move on to something within your price range. Why is it not the same for luxury items? Also I have a question for women who buy fakes - if someone “calls you out” or asks whether your item is real, do you say yes? Or do you admit it’s not?

It was me that said that I wanted to respond to the Love bracelet question when I checked back in to see what I had missed (can’t help myself) with the same line but I thought I’d keep my mouth shut for once

But there is something deeply psychological/sociological happening in our society that is making people feel the need to create this false image by any means necessary.

My point throughout this thread, it’s something I will never understand. I get that the higher end/more expensive things more often look better but it’s the ‘look rich’ when you’re not and doing some low level tit that is disturbing to me. I do blame social media.

 

[Scorpihoe]

I'm not sure what your financial background is, so maybe you are not around these types, but there are A LOT of people out there that buy homes and cars out of their price range. Have you ever heard of being "house poor"? It's when you buy a house out of your price range and are left without money to pay for other essential needs in your life. There are people who live with their parents at 30 just so they can own a luxury car to appear wealthy to their contemporaries.

Yes, many people accept things are out of their budget and move on. I'm that way and it sounds like you are too. But there is something deeply psychological/sociological happening in our society that is making people feel the need to create this false image by any means necessary.

yeah I agree with you, if I see something out of my budget, I accept it’s not for me and forget about it. I would never put myself in debt or empty my savings for an item, it’s never worth it. Unfortunately social media influences people to purchase things out of their budget, which can lead down a dangerous path such as debt, loans, and even crime.

I’ve not heard of the term house poor, so thank you for mentioning, but I can see why this would be a harmful and toxic behaviour pattern to fall into. It reminds me of the saying “buying things you can’t afford, to impress people you don’t like”

 

[Its_Me]

I’ve heard of cash rich house poor but I actually thought it meant someone who flashes the cash but doesn’t have a home or any solid foundation, just ‘stuff’. Like a pay as you go lifestyle.

 

[superficialthings]

My point throughout this thread, it’s something I will never understand. I get that the higher end/more expensive things more often look better but it’s the ‘look rich’ when you’re not and doing some low level tit that is disturbing to me. I do blame social media.

Oh, social media is absolutely a major part of this. As I said in an earlier comment, the idea of trying to keep up with those around you is nothing new, but social media has definitely brought the pressure to new highs and the goals even more unbelievable.

 

[Scorpihoe]

Oh, social media is absolutely a major part of this. As I said in an earlier comment, the idea of trying to keep up with those around you is nothing new, but social media has definitely brought the pressure to new highs and the goals even more unbelievable.

it causes the replica market to thrive, because the demand increases, so people turn to this so they can get the same “look” for cheap. But of course this comes with its own ethics such as funding for terrorist organisations and child exploitation as mentioned before

 

[xforeverlove21]

I'm not sure what your financial background is, so maybe you are not around these types, but there are A LOT of people out there that buy homes and cars out of their price range. Have you ever heard of being "house poor"? It's when you buy a house out of your price range and are left without money to pay for other essential needs in your life. There are people who live with their parents at 30 just so they can own a luxury car to appear wealthy to their contemporaries.

Yes, many people accept things are out of their budget and move on. I'm that way and it sounds like you are too. But there is something deeply psychological/sociological happening in our society that is making people feel the need to create this false image by any means necessary.

Yes but how long does it last?
Won't be long till the bank comes knocking on the door and you're forced to foreclose. This is just a huge financial mistake that's short term and destined to end up in huge amounts of debts and eventually having the bank seize your property.

it causes the replica market to thrive, because the demand increases

Not just the replica industry but the authentic designer brands too... they all somehow turned into fast fashion. Instagram is the main reason for this and there's constantly a new "it bag" every few months or so.
Everywhere I look I see someone with a designer bag but 5-10 years ago I barely saw any and it was mostly the usual MK, Kate Spade, Coach.... and only a few people would be seen with high tier luxury brands. These days even kids in High School are somehow able to get a PSM (worth over $2k) among many other things. Unpopular opinion: but I am starting to not care for or want to spend money on luxury bags if it's something everyone and their grandma has... it just doesn't feel special anymore (at least to me). I am starting to believe that high-end designer bags will soon no longer be a symbol of wealth or luxury. I honestly rather spend the money towards buying stocks, crypto, real estate.... and turning money into more money rather than buying things that are pretty much common and nothing exclusive/special these days.