Friend or Faux?

     I despise knockoffs. They are cheaply made and are an absolute mockery of a designer's hard work and talent. Sadly, knockoffs are as prevalent as popcorn at the movies. I understand that every one's budget is different, but I'd rather save up or wait until I can afford something designer than buy something that is going to be beyond repair after a couple of uses. Sorry Charlie, quality is quality and crappy is crappy. Besides, in the log run you will definitely appreciate it more.
    
     As I mentioned in an earlier blog, I worked at Neiman Marcus during college. Everyday my vision was inundated with beauty. It was definitely an education both in fashion and sociology. It also sharpened my eye to high fashion couture. As a result, I can tell a knockoff a mile away. Don't misunderstand me, if you but a knockoff unknowingly that's one thing, but to be fully aware that the product is a fake is entirely different. First off, they rip or break easily because they are not made of reliable materials. Lastly, they are almost always tacky. Even the best knockoff has a tell.

 

       My friend, Liza, was once given a knockoff Tiffany bracelet by her friend, Teresa as a birthday gift. This was doubly insulting because my friend already had an authentic one. To add insult to injury, Teresa regaled her with an epic tale of how she'd gone through back doors and tunnels in Chinatown in New York to acquire not only the bracelet but also purses and other items for herself. My friend smiled politely and accepted the gift, knowing full well that it was never see its way into her jewelry box. There is no way I would ever put myself in danger in the name of fashion. There is also no way I would ever give a knockoff as a gift. What indirect message does that send about your friendship? This same "friend" has made repeated trips back to New York to score more finds. This is not only dangerous but also illegal. Knockoffs are often smuggled from other countries and made using child labor and/or often slave wages.

  
       Designers have gotten the message loud and clear that everyone wants something nice. With retailers such as Kohl's and Target serving up designer offerings at a lower price point, there is no reason that everyone can't enjoy this bounty. Everyone deserves a piece of the American Dream. Just make sure it isn't a classless mirage.