Tonight, I went out to grab a coffee and in a two block radius I saw not one, not two, not even three, but four obviously knocked off handbags (Chanel and Louis for those of you curious).
Now, here's the thing... back in high school I did own two fake handbags, but then I came across the Harper's Bazaar campaign FAKES ARE NEVER IN FASHION and to be honest I had no idea that fake or 'replica' handbags, perfumes, sunglasses ect all contribute to the works of human trafficking and are usually linked with drug & weapon trafficking and terrorist organizations.
To be honest, I don't think I was alone. I first heard of the campaign in 2007 and since tossed my fakes and vowed to never purchase another (mind you at the time I didn't have the respect for the industry I do now - I loved fashion, but was more concerned with being cool... ahh high school). Now I'm an avid activist against the manufacturing, selling and purchasing of fake or 'replicated' designer goods.
In my personal opinion - these design labels are as high-end, expensive and exclusive as they are for a reason... they manufacture top notch, top quality products. If the people replicating these goods had any of the creativity, skills and craftsmanship that the designers and design labels they rip off have, well, they would have made their own successful, high-end labels...and so those who can't do, fake.
Seriously, if you can't afford the classic Chanel bag you've always wanted - opt for something similar, there are tons of adorable Chanel-inspired handbags you can purchase without supporting counterfeit goods.
