Jimmy Choo Rosa Lizard Skin purse. Retail $1750.00. Our price $900.
By Alexandria Keener of My Girlfriend’s Wardrobe
One of the questions I get asked the most at my store is “Is this real/authentic/genuine?” Following my answer to that question (which is always yes) is usually; “Why is it so expensive? Didn’t someone use it?”
I love being able to educate people about authentic designer items, and the downside of the replica designer items. Now the people who sell the fakes are turning to Facebook yard sale groups (many of which I’ve been kicked out of for complaining about the re-sale of these illegal items), Craigslist, Instagram and some are even going as far as creating fake versions of a company’s website.
Why should you save up your money for the real thing?
Quality. The quality of a well made bag is like no other. You will clearly be able to tell the difference and appreciate the hard work and dedication that went into making that one item once you own one. Did you know that most designer scarves have hand rolled and stitched edges, and that Louis Vuitton bags have the same number of stitching on each handle and opposite seams? Someone took their time in making that scarf so that it would last you years, and maybe even pass it down in the family.
Burberry Hoxton Bag. Retail $1200.00. Our price $500.
The real deal supports the designer/company, and our economy. The thing about these replica designer goods is that you don’t know where your money is going. Those who choose to re-sell fake items continue to support an unknown industry, as well as the buyer who buys them.
Replica items are illegal. They violate copyright laws, and if you’re found selling them you can be sued, fined, and face jail time. Take the mom and daughter Coach caught selling fake Coach bags for example. Coach sued them for $44 million, and Coach won. The designers and law enforcement are cracking down. There was a sneaker shop on Market Street in downtown York that was busted selling fake Nike, and Air Jordan sneakers among other items.
Coach Sneakers: Retail $108. Our price $45.
Just because you have admitted in your for sale listing that it’s fake doesn’t make it OK. If you went to pay someone in counterfeit money, would you expect them to take it because you told them up front it was fake?
I know that some people don’t want to spend more than $50 on a purse, or shoes, or clothing, on these designer items, that’s what consignment stores like mine, Mish Mash, The Little Green Owl, and some others in our area are for. We authenticate the designer items we receive and turn away the fakes. It is illegal to sell a replica item. My store has received Trusted Seller status through Authenticate First.
Tory Burch Lila Tank. Retail: $225. Our price $70.
Here’s another way to think about it. Some fakes are cheap, some aren’t. Some sellers are able to trick people into paying thousands. If you buy 10 fake items at $50 each you just spent $500 on 10 things that fell apart. You could have spent $500 on one thing that would have lasted you for years. Most designers even offer a repair service, where they will repair your item for free, or a small charge.
I encourage you to educate yourself, and support those who should be supported. When buying online, make sure you look for spelling errors, check the email address listed and the phone number, do a Google search, and check their return policy.
Alexandria Keener is co-owner of My Girlfriend’s Wardrobe Consignment Store in York. Her style is casual, and she can always be seen wearing a bright pop of color. But, she’ll never say no to an opportunity to go all out and dress up.
