Would You Wear A Knock-Off?

posted by Eli

Aug 12, 2008 2:04PM

Are you really that judgemental of a friend? Thats awful.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:05PM

yes i would wear it IF i couldn't find a similar vintage piece or make something like it.

i just can't afford the expensive designer clothes. and i'm not complaining either. i love F21. they are cheap and chic.

posted by KLW

Aug 12, 2008 2:07PM

It depends on the actual item itself. As long as it's fully lined, and the zippers are good, no threads coming out, sleeves put in properly, and it really, truly fits, I will consider it. It's not like any of us are buying couture; plenty of authentic ready-to-wear is of mass-produced construction as well, and if it's as good as the inspiration, why not? And if it's a really good dress, it won't be obvious to almost anyone--I wouldn't buy something that was obviously a knockoff of a more complicated garment, or something that screwed up a distinctive pattern, a la DVF.

Never, ever will I do it with shoes and handbags--cheap leather always looks cheap, and shoes that are designed with a look in mind instead of considering fit, balance, and construction, are murder on the feet, especially with a heel as high as the Tribute pumps.

posted by bastylefilegirl

Aug 12, 2008 2:09PM

I understand both sides of the coin I love fashion, but I dont' make the kind of moolah to spend on "high fashion". I personally have one exception to my no knock off rule and that is shoes. If the shoe is ubbbbbbbber trendy like the Chloe Leather Shoe Boot and won't last until next spring then I would opt for the Forever 21 29 buck knockoff. Now as far as clothes and other items I say No. It's far easier to get "inspired" looks as you mention without buying a complete knock off as far as clothes and other accessories are concerned. As far as ethics I think that it makes everyone cringe to think that something we are buying may come from a sweatshop, but lets not just point the finger at knockoffs because some chain retailers we know and love have been caught in sweatshop scandals, as well as the ethics of many high fashion lines using animal skins which is questionable in itself!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:09PM

Though I don't condone knock off's and wouldn't buy one myself, i think that its fine for someone who likes fashion but can't afford it. I remember back in 2000 I really wanted the Balenciaga Le Dix bag but was not sure if I could commit. I almost bought a knock off by some other designer and then figured if I was going to get the knock off I may as well get the real thing. At the time the bag was $1,000. With inflation and the looming recession, I think its going to be alot harder to buy luxury items and companies like Urban, F21 and Nine West are going to make similar items more available at a more affordable price for people who love the look but can't spend the dough. I don't agree with stealing the intellectual property however every designer has ripped off another designer at some point. Fashion these days is FAR from original.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:12PM

this is america, and egalitarian fashion is awesome. not everyone can afford balenciaga while working as a blogger- in fact, acting superior because you can (or your parents support you) is just wrong.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:13PM

after countless compliments on finds from forever 21, i'm hooked. easy on the wallet. kleenex clothes. wear them one season and move on.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:13PM

"I winced. Such an irrelevant excuse and yet kept in a holster."

umm...hello have you been living under a rock. look times are hard and even if they were not people still want to wear something that is in style. not everybody can afford ysl shoes or balenciaga blazers. what do you expect people to do. buying vintage is fun, but i know plenty of people who like myself love fashion but just aren't in the top tax bracket. therefore we can't afford the real thing or the close to the real thing in vintage stores because even they can price things high. you winced ... you actually winced. please and get over it. not everybody that reads this site has the money to just go and buy expensive clothes, something that your readers have been stating in the comment section for a while now. maybe you should open your mind. not everybody that is in to fashion is rich. i am not saying go down to canal street, but forever 21 and steve madden, and even h and m sometimes. i mean come on of course i would go there on my college students budget.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:16PM

Look, the game is up. "Designer" goods are no longer worth squat, as we all know they are increasingly made in China using the same slave labour as the clothes made for F21 etc. (even more heinous, some designer goods made in Italy are made in Italy...by massively underpaid Asian immigrants in sweatshops). As for the Piet Mondrian design...that image is old enough that it no longer has a copyright, and can be used by any designer, be it couture or a "knock-off".
I was willing to pay more for "original" designer goods when I had faith they were actually made by decently paid European craftspeople. After all, isn't that how they justify those hefty price tags? Now, I would feel like a fool to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars for something made in a sweatshop, no matter who designed it.
If you are going to judge your friends based on their outfits, I would say that your friends need to find someone else to hang out with. I mean, I like fashion, but do you realize there are wars going on? That the U.S. is about to spin into a recession? That there are people out there who don't have homes, food or clean water?
Get a grip.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:17PM

Like 4 said, it really depends on the construction of the garment and what it is. This is especially true for me and mid-market ready-to-wear/diffusion lines. Anyone who doesn't know that mid-market line designer brand items often are of a comparable quality to the people knocking them off obviously doesn't look past the label (which might be GLUED on). I think I made this point in regards to a grey nylon forever 21 tote and a MJ grey nylon tote debate, but there absolutely are times when a nylon tote is just a nylon tote.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:19PM

Some people just don't have the cash to fork over for an original, but still want to look chic. You simply can't hate them for that.

Sure, the copy-cat aspect of the fashion industry sucks, but it's also the nature of the business.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:20PM

WOW, I can't believe this girl is still your friend. You come off as such a judgemental snob. Get over yourself.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:20PM

I have been an avid reader of fashionista for over a year and have rearly commented, but this post made me very angry.
Forever 21 is one of the largest and most profitable stores around. You really think that no one who cares about fashion shops there? That is naive and, as much as I hate to say it because I love this website, pretentious.
It's unfourtunate that these designers are getting their specific items ripped off, but as people have said in comments before, it goes both ways. Designers get their inspiration from other clothing also.
Perhaps the top 1% can buy real designer items. Is it really fair that the rest of us are kept out of cutting edge fashion because of it. There are certainly items to be found in vintage stores, and personally, that is what makes up most of my wardrobe. But if something was made in 1988, it looks different than something made in 2008. Not everyone's look is vintage and that doesn't mean they shouldn't be allowed to keep up with the trends in an affordable way.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:20PM

The cringe factor with knock-offs is that they are blatant copies of something original. While I would sport something clearly inspired by a designer, to wear a full-on rip off (for me) is cheesy.
However, I waiver on the moral aspect of this debate. I'm one of the many people who cannot afford designer clothes, even though I would love to. I have a problem with blouses costing in the thousands and shoes costing in the quadruple digits. Prices are obscene and if somebody feels good wearing an F21 copy, let her enjoy it.
And before posts pop up about the ethics of child labor and all that, I hope that person has checked every label in his/her wardrobe and knows for a fact that every upscale designer does not underpaid and/or child laborers.

posted by hellonheels

Aug 12, 2008 2:23PM

I think knockoffs are tacky, personally. I understand that the vast majority of people can't afford the originals, but like Kyle said, find something vintage that references the look. I don't see what's so chic about Forever 21...it's all synthetic crap.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:25PM

i've never purposefully worn a knock-off that is practically an exact replica of a higher-priced designer item. i think that it's unfair to the ACTUAL designer of the clothing. i prefer to find pieces that are unique in their own way, and might follow the same trend, but aren't someone else's ideas.

posted by Britt Aboutaleb

Aug 12, 2008 2:25PM

Why do so many readers insist on only two categories? There's more than "designer" or "designer knock-off". Get creative. Wear something original, still stylish, and within your budget. No one in our office is wearing anything designer today, but no one's wearing a rip-off of someone else's designs either. That doesn't make us pretentious, it makes us conscious and respectful of the designers we support.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:29PM

How is not being able to afford something an "irrelevant excuse"? I'd love some Balenciaga but I've got a non-profit salary and can barely make rent. Maybe after I make my first million I can spend more time worrying about protecting the creative integrity of Balenciaga.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:30PM

So many of the writers on this site have showed themselves to be elitist snobs. By acting like you are not living in the same world as most of your readers, you alienate them. Sure, hold on to your tiny elite readership and you will have tiny salaries to match. Buy some YSL platforms with THAT!

I highly doubt any of these writers are even college-educated, with the highly ignorant views that they exemplify.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:30PM

wow.

this is the ridiculous thing i have read on a blog for a long time.

the most fashionable people i know are the ones who don't have a lot to spend. what they can spend gets utilised on high street knock-offs and inspired second hand. i've never met a stylish person who spends lots of money on "the real thing" because along with their stylish outfit, they also have stylish, interesting lives. they like to socialise, to dine out, to travel places, to read and watch and do. they have a good quality of life. in short, they love to look good but they are smart enough not to spend all their money doing it.

i also hate to generalise, but i feel this may be an american thing, and evidence of how behind europe they are when it comes to style. everyone likes to have a few coveted pieces that we know will last through the seasons, but in the uk, where i am from, you are consider a vapid fool if you spent your month's wages on lagerfeld and co.'s newest bag.

on a personal note, it seems you have some sort of inferiority issue away from clothing. are you ugly? stupid? can't find a life partner? whatever, having pity upon someone because you don't think their clothes are good enough (when they've shown more creativity than yourself, in mixing it up) makes me think that you need to look into yourself.

and as for your friend, good on her. she's seen the sartorial light. may you and your other narrow-minded minions follow.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:31PM

i don't go for knock-offs, mainly because the construction and comfort is severly lacking (oh my feet!) and because usually when an item has reached the knock-off status it is because it's so highly coveted and everyone and their mother is wearing the same item, be it high-end or the F21 version and i don't want to be another face in the crowd wearing the latest trend. but i would never be so full of myself to condemn a friend for wearing an imitation - if she has found something she loves and feels good in, who are you to cut her down for it. i love your blog but you just sounded like an incredibly pretentious b**ch.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:35PM

I agree. Very pretentious of you fashionista!
"respectul of the designers". Give me a break!I do NOT think buying a knock off at Forever 21 is being disrespectful. Certainly not. It's just what a lot of people can afford and it's not having any affect on any designer.
The fashion industry is disrespectful in itself! Just look at the way models are being talked to/about. Or the way interns/employees are treated by their employers.
I'm way off topic but anyway, just wanted to give my opinion.

posted by bastylefilegirl

Aug 12, 2008 2:36PM

"it's all synthetic crap." umm many "high fashion" lines use synthetic crap like PVC ......

http://fashionista.com/2008/08/pvc_3.php

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:37PM

Britt a little defensve, you all promote countless times how you are buying designer clothes consitently, and then going on and on about about other people try to make it accessible for regular people who are struggling to have some designer looks. Its not like everyone every day is copying designers clothing all week every week. Would you judge someone if some copied a exact look out of a magazine or a runway.

And if someone was orignial but it was from F21 would you judge i am sure you would.

Are so supposed to be impressed no one is wearing designer today.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:40PM

Britt, I actually agree with Fashionista's general policy on designer knock-offs. I don't wear them, but definitely love taking elements from them--which I can do, now that I live in a big coastal city. However, I think you are failing to take into account that many people will not have a lot of access to the kinds of stores where you can find anything else. In the town where I am from (which is very wealthy, and I imagine it is harder in towns which are not), there is Saks and there is the mall, with its Forever 21. There is nothing in between. There are no vintage shops. There are no little boutiques. Sure, there is the internet, but you can't try stuff on and vintage is very hard over the internet. It just makes it so hard. So I feel like I should be a little lenient.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:41PM

Interesting (and quite pretentious for someone who writes for a blog) to be so sanctimonious about knock-offs.

What was so groundbreaking about the Mondrian dress? DVF simply translated a painting to a cotton shift. Does that mean she owns the intellectual property rights to that print? I think not.

Furthermore, you act so high-and-mighty about knock-offs, yet even fashionista staff members occasionally slip and admit to buying knock-offs. EXAMPLE:

http://fashionista.com/2007/07/post_295.php

In short, get over yourself and remember one thing: You might have an in in the fashion industry, but your job description is no different than Perez Hilton's.

posted by KLW

Aug 12, 2008 2:42PM

While I think Britt raises a good point, one thing I feel like you're forgetting is that while lots of people love fashion, not everyone works in fashion. The post isn't pretentious per se, but Fashionista is often a little sanctimonious in their judgements about what other people wear, while seeming to forget that other people have different wardrobe concerns than they do. My friends and I, who need to spend money on business casual separates and pumps for the job that pays the rent often don't have leftover cash for other things.

Speaking as someone who has actually spent some time in the Fashionista offices, your work clothes can also be your play clothes, and vice versa. Not everyone has that luxury. I am of the type that prefers to save my money for the real deal, but that doesn't make my style more or less authentic than someone else who chooses otherwise.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:43PM

There is certainly a lot of ‘gray’ area on the topic of knock offs. I think about this subject all the time. For one I work in the industry and knocking off is considered fair game. Secondly, I love to sew at home and occasionally copy a silhouette from a favorite piece in my closet. So recently I have decided to examine knock off’s on a case by case basis. Take for instance the street vendor selling multiple name brand rip off purses. Personally I don’t like bags with huge logos on the outside that everyone and their grandmother owns so I don’t feel the pressure to buy. However regardless of popularity I’m still not interested in buying a product that has been blatantly copied down to the smallest thread! It’s like a slap in the face to the design house plus it’s fueling a huge illegal industry that is hurting many companies. With this said then I must question F21, is this a civilized street vendor? It really just expands on knock off purses to clothing, shoes, accessories, ect. except instead of being in a small 4’ x 4’ box you are in a clean white walled store. F21 is the epitome of throw away knock off clothing, do you think that a true Fashionista throws away her shirt after 1 month? Probably not, she would save up for the real thing or be a trailblazer and hit up the local thrift shop. I would hope next time your stylish friend would take the more creative road and maybe then even inspire some others to do the same! 

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:44PM

I am sorry but if you are willing to buy a F21 knockoff of some hot Chloe shoe then isn't that like the definition of victimization? Instead of cultivating your own style with random pieces, you feel the need to wear imitation whatever to create the appearance of being high fashion....but there is an interesting question here--does the issue go all the way up? Is a J. Crew "Balenciaga" blazer a la f/w 07 the same as those Baker's YSL?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:47PM

Not everyone thrives off mommy and daddy's money. Some people have to actually work for their money, pay their own bills and buy their own clothes. Whatever....In the long those people will always have a better handle on life than the trust fund babies who have no idea what it's like to live in the real world. And really...clothes are clothes .Yes, the higher end stuff is mostly better quality, but not everyone cares about that. I think the bloggers here at Fashionista are just a little bit too obsessed with the name on the tag.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:50PM

Also, just because some designers use "synthetic crap" doesn't mean that it's ok...are we supposed to feel bad because people are such victims that they cannot afford Balenciaga but MUST absolutely MUST look like they are wearing it? There are ways to style yourself without resorting to gross fake or rip off stuff. Honestly I agree fashion is all about mixing and matching high/low, but if you "love" fashion then why hurt the designers and look silly by victimizing yourselves?

posted by Summer

Aug 12, 2008 2:50PM

I'll wear a knockoff if I love the design, not because it's a knockoff of a "designer" piece. That is to say, if I LOVE the look of a dress, a jacket, a print, whathaveyou, I'm going to try to find it and wear it. Since I can't afford designer right now, I would buy what I could afford (F21, H&M, etc).

However, I have little patience for people who buy knockoffs BECAUSE they are knockoffs, who want to mislead and/or claim its designer. That's just lame in my book. Labelistas. I also have no patience for people who simply must fall in line with whatever the IT item is today - a bag, a shoe, a dress - regardless of whether it's flattering or attractive, designer or knockoff. That's just money poorly spent, regardless.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:50PM

whos to say where inspiration ends and knock-off begins? everything these days gets recycled.

posted by helene

Aug 12, 2008 2:51PM

Fashion is so cyclical, eventually everything becomes a knockoff of something that has previously been made. I suppose the "fast fashion" industry of today just takes it to the next level... But you can't overlook the fact that all the major designers of today look to fashion archives for their new creations, and i am positive that we could find an Oscar de la Renta gown that is an exact replica of an old Hollywood dress!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:51PM

fighting over who has the most "original" style is like hipsters competing to see who has the "best" taste in music.

it isn't about WHAT you're wearing for God's sake--whether it's from F21 or not. it's about HOW YOU WEAR IT. style is CONFIDENCE, not a brand.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:52PM

I've accidentally purchased and worn knockoffs a lot before I educated myself about designers and the world of fashion. For instance, I bought a handbag on some random website because I loved the way it looked only to later find out I was carry a Balenciaga knockoff. It has really cheapened what I had previously thought was a great buy.

Now knowing more about designer fashion, I do have a lot more guilt about knockoff fashion, but I'm not sure that it is always going to stop me from buying/wearing it. It does make me stop and think twice though. My fashion philosophy is to wear what I like. If that happens to mean I'm wearing something knocked off, then so be it.

posted by tahl

Aug 12, 2008 2:52PM

I'll say it - I shop at F21. Often.

If a friend of MINE ever turned their nose up at my F21 outfit with the same serious "but I expected SO MUCH MORE from you! I thought you liked fashion!" attitude of this post, I'd make it a point to stop calling that person my friend. Because, really, I don't need that sort of shallow, judgmental crap in life.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:53PM

"I winced. Such an irrelevant excuse and yet kept in a holster."

Lol since when has affordability been irrelevant?

posted by kijjalyn

Aug 12, 2008 2:53PM

I think for me I love fashion without worshipping design houses. I hate the idea of being so caught up in labels that you lose personal style. I think it is less about who makes the item and more about how it looks, how it is styled, how it fits, how it flatters. The only copies that are truly gross to me are items the street vender bags that steal logos, designer names, exact prints, etc., like the Lanvin tee you showed before. But to use an inspired look from the runway and change it slightly make it affordable is kinda what fashion is all about, whether you get it from the Goodwill or Forever 21 or DIY.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:54PM

First of all, yes this post was unnecessarily pretentious and Britt's response, though understandable, is defensive. And I do think it's hypocritical to have this post situated right above a post about Zara's increasing profits due to their ability to rework and copy runway design into mass goods, which many of the Fashionista writers have themselves bought. But there is a middle ground. What does a 'knock off' really even mean anymore? As several high profile news items have suggested, Martin Margiela, Marc Jacobs and Erin Wasson have both ripped off other artists work for their own use. So I don't think it's about "respecting the designer". If you want to wear an outfit head to toe of knock-offs, go ahead, but I don't think it will look as pieced together as someone who bought a cheap imitation at Forever 21 and wore it in an interesting way with other things from their closet. At the end of the day though, people need to face up that the economy is in steep decline, a recession is in progress, while price inflation of luxury goods increases year by year. Does this mean you can't go out and buy vintage? Of course, not. I personally don't buy imitation wares because I'd rather have something cheap and original but I don't look down on others who can wear them in interesting ways. I just don't have the time/patience to do that.

posted by helene

Aug 12, 2008 2:55PM

PS, guest 27, the mondrian dress is also YSL, not DVF

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:56PM

Britt Aboutaleb and Kyle Hayes I hate to break it to you but not only does it make you sound pretentious, but full of shit as well.

posted by kijjalyn

Aug 12, 2008 2:57PM

Also, I don't think that people who wear knockoffs are trying to fool anyone, (if they are, that is sad). They went into a store and bought a shoe or a purse or whatever that they though was cute and wore the heck out of it. Buying a fake bag and lying to everyone about who made it is dishonest, but buying an inspired bag and being upfront about its cheapness and even who it copied, not so much.

PS. I have the Baker's Tributes and they do not look or feel cheap, The most comfortable platforms I own.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:57PM

A very wise man once said "Lighten up.....it's just fashion!"

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:57PM

The thing is, I wouldn't ever buy anything because it's a knock-off, but if I liked an item on its own merits (and not because I want people to think it's something else) I have no problem buying it. There are so many other things to think about before I'd worry about the creative provenance of a $20 sundress.

posted by bastylefilegirl

Aug 12, 2008 2:58PM

"posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:44PM said
"Is a J. Crew "Balenciaga" blazer a la f/w 07 the same as those Baker's YSL?"

I think that depends on who you ask, I feel that some people are personally attacking certain companies , forever 21, bakers, steve madden, but forgetting that the Gaps, J Crews, Banana Republics of the world are also doing knockoff-esque looks like the blazer you mention. And yes they may be crafted better, the fabric of a higher quality but where was it made, and why is it better than any other knockoff because the name is familiar and acceptable?

P.S. I got the hot chloe knockoffs because there was no way I was paying 300 + on sale for a shoe that I was only going to wear for not even one season.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:58PM

I'm probably just reiterating what others have said, but

a. YSL ripped off Mondrian to begin with
b. it's pretty difficult to find exactly what you are looking for when shipping for vintage. I don't ship at vintage stores to find an exact item/a cheaper version of a designer item, I shop at vintage stores in oreder to search adn discover.
c. "Designer" duds are expensive/overpriced/have their own shady issues with labor policies.

put a (pricey, I'm sure) sock in it, Fashionista

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:59PM

It's hard to take you seriously when you also post DIY projects for knock-off luxury items, a la prada earrings, drip shoes etc.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 2:59PM

Clothes are clothes....are you on the right blog #31??

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:00PM

I'm pretty sure Zara does almost the exact same thing, just at a higher price point. And didn't you praise them in the post just before this....

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:00PM

I am not a trust fund baby just someone that loves fashion not clothes. The reason I save and budget for a few amazing pieces of clothes a season is because I love the creative and the thought process that goes into producing that item. I love that these beautiful garments are meant to say something about that particular designer at that particular moment. That this collection is a reaction to something in the world around them, a mood, a moment, or simply a thought. I wear what I wear because I connected with the designer and his or her thought process and loved loved loved what they did. The whole things about fakes is that it steals and it becomes about the status of the item not like the creator of the original and his "story."

I agree with the author of this post if you like something use it as inspiration to get that look at your price point don't go and buy fakes and at least if you are buy the nasty ones on Canal Street and laugh it off.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:00PM

Why were you allowed to post this, Kyle?

You know what I realized? People who try to attain a certain level in the fashion industry feel that they must buy or promote the really expensive/brand name items because that is what they feel is expected of them. But when individuals actually get to that higher level in fashion, they actually try to promote/buy the unknown/inexpensive brand (including the pricey things). And I feel that the people here at fashionista.com are trying so hard to get to that higher level that you guys are not actually setting trends or being innoative...you guys follow the status-quo of the fashion industry (which comes off very pretentious to the people who are actually invovled in higher fashion).

Trust me. As long as its a good knock-off, no one gives a damn.

That is my two cents.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:01PM

Did anyone stop to think that Fashionista is, above anything else, an effort in journalism?

Did Kyle's post piss you off, cause you to forward the article to 3 of your closest friends, or IM someone at work to vent about how Fashionista is on its way out?

Mission accomplished, Kyle.

Readership is up.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:01PM

These interns (I'm assuming they're from FIT) need to be let go. These posts are getting seriously ridiculous.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:02PM

Sometimes it's not what you say, but how you say it. The post comes off as bitchy and judgemental, even if it wasn't the intent.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:04PM

I have been a long time reader of this site, and will continue, but this post also made me quite angry.

You get on your high horses about the ethics of knock offs and the people who wear them, while actively judging your own FRIEND for exercising her right to consumer freedom. What about the ethics of judging people based on their clothing choices? Don't you find ANYTHING wrong with that?

There are bigger things to worry about in this world, and while yes, you are fortunate to work in the fashion industry and have access to all of these wonderful outlets of fashion, 95% of the population does not. This does not make them less than you, or anyone who is willing to spend thousands on a designer item. Designers themselves are knocking off each other, or RANDOM PEOPLE ON THE STREET (who *gasp* could be wearing knockoffs!) whom they may feel inspired by. How many times can one reinvent a shoe? It's all recycled in some way or another.

Get creative? Why don't you get up and look outside of the elitist fashion box you have limited yourself to. There is a whole big would out there, of people being creative in all facets, without judging their own friends for their fashion choices.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:04PM

I agree with Guest 26. As a person who lives in a "small town" it's hard to get access to high end stores, fashions, etc. Obviously we're *lucky* enough to have sources like Fashionista, WWD, etc, to lead us in the way we should go (...), but the options aren't always available.

And then there's the financial side of it. I'm NOT going to go buy a $1200 pair of shoes when I'm having to pay the next bill, the next tuition fee, the next anything and everything. It doesn't make sense for the average person to spend that much money on something that might not even be wearable the next season. Which is the reason why "cheaper" stores like Forever 21 are so successful. They're providing something to the public that high-end designers can't/won't provide.

Whether you like it or not, whatever the circumstances or arguments are, that's just the way it is.

P.s. My love for Fashionista has lessened just a little after the pure pretentiousness of this post. (And yes I know everyone is using that word, but that’s the best way to describe it)

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:05PM

It's a shame every post on this question has to deteriorate into name calling and accusations of living off of daddy's money. I think its really unfair and very presumptuous.

It could be an interesting conversation about art and ownership. But it isn't. Sad.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:07PM

It seems strange that Fashionista is supposedly so against the idea of knock offs, yet they have posted do-it-yourself posts on many occasions. The writer of these posts will provide instructions which will illustrate how the reader can recreate designer clothing/accessories at home without the designer price tag. Sure Fashionista is not selling the finished product in massive quantities in order to make money. However, they are stealing the designer's idea, simply so that they can do what the customers of Forever 21 are doing - saving a buck.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:09PM

I also think it worth noting that knock-offs are items that have been heavily promoted in fashion magazines and media, inciting desire for these fashions and "must have" thoughts. Most people, myself included, cannot afford the originals but the advertising and promotion of these designer clothes and styles is quite successful. We want these clothes and styles, even if we cannot afford them and I'm sorry, but expecting people to not buy them because they are knock-offs is ridiculous. It is not like the designers are losing money because I bought a copy, I would never have bought the original in the fist place because I could never afford it. Why am I not entitled to look chic in current styles? As for being creative, I do think that is best (and more fun!), but as most people I know live hectic and busy lives trying to make a living, having something stylish to quickly throw on is important. It just seems you folks at Fashionista are living in a holier-than-thou bubble.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:10PM

I think a big problem is how much knock-offs hurt the industry. While I think the principle is wrong, and am always wary of buying blatantly fake things (because then I look stupid) I often wonder how much a huge brand, like say Louis Vuitton gets hurt through knockoffs. People who buy knock-offs probably do so because they can't afford the real deal.

I personally find it a bit tacky to buy direct knockoffs, but that's because I prefer to wear things based on the way, not because they are recognizable. I will buy things that are "inspired," but I suppose if a knock-off looks good, I would invest in one, as long as it's cheap.

posted by bastylefilegirl

Aug 12, 2008 3:13PM

I swear this is my last post I promise....I have no problem with the post sounding "pretntionous" or "bitchy" as some commenters say. What I do have a problem with is that it seems as if sometimes the site "picks on" certain companies. I agree with Guest 41 who finds it as I do funny that this post is above a post about Zara being inspired by runway. Is the reason that Zara, Reiss ( who had a Herve Leger "inspired" skirt and dress in stores now) and Topshop ( although you occasionally address them,but in a much lighter tone) not attacked because the pricepoint is higher and therefore deemed above the "knock off" level? I think that may be what is upsetting some readers that this argument seems unbalanced and attack like.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:13PM

59 --

This could have been a civil discussion about the subject, had Kyle not "WINCED" when his friend revealed the shoes are knockoffs. The general tone of the post is judgmental, and not very open to other trains of thought.

An intelligent debate is rarely formed after such a negative opening statement.

posted by kijjalyn

Aug 12, 2008 3:17PM

Is it possible for us as readers and commenters to leave a thoughtful and respectful post voicing our opinions without name-calling, insulting or getting unecessarily angry? This is not the first time or the last time the topic will come up on this blog, so can we have a mature discussion and disagree without being mean to the bloggers or each other?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:18PM

excellent point commenter #45!

Kyle, if knock-offs didn't exist, how would you stay so high and mighty on that horse of yours?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:20PM

ugh, SHUT UP. christ almighty.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:21PM

Now some people are throwing around the idea that Fashionista doesn't want you to wear cheap, non-designer clothes. I don't think anyone said anything about price tag having anything to do with looking your best. The idea behind the post was don't wear items that are blatant copies, not don't wear cheap, chic clothing. Not EVERY piece at F21 is a copy (thus feel free to wear them), just as not every designer piece is original (ala the post about Bliss). I think the truth behind the argument lies in the ability to educate yourself on the industry and trends and to support originality in yourself and in design.

So go out and buy the most affordable, best looking clothing you can find, just make sure the designer didn't intend for it to be something else. I think everyone at Fashionista would support you in that.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:24PM

Fashionista, is just a hyprocrite they feel that they can judge everyone else including there friends about what they wear and buy it from, and the go ahead and do the same thing when its good enough for them.

Do you really feel so self important that you work on this fashion blog. You guys are just so into yourself and only care about what the label says.

While there are true people who love fashion, and can not get a break. Maybe its people like u who have made me dillusioned and really to leave this industry for good

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:27PM

I always wear knock-offs, and do so knowingly. I understand the issue of intellectual property and ripping off original designs, but I cannot by any stretch afford designer clothing. Forever 21 is, in fact, almost too expensive for me. I do a fair amount of inspiration and approximation as well, but sometimes I just go straight for the direct copy.

I don't necessarily believe that design should be only for the very rich, and as long as prices are inflated beyond anything even remotely affordable I will be buying knockoffs. I specifically went to F21 to buy a pair of Chloe knock-off sunglasses (themselves already knock-offs of a previous designer) because I knew they'd be there and I wanted them. If I could afford the real designer stuff, though, I would buy it.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:30PM

What is ironic is that luxury fashion emerged as a model for others to copy. The court of Louix XIV hired French tailors to create small doll-like clothes in the latest styles "a la francaise" and send them all over Europe for tailors to recreate for their clients.
Fashion is fashion, and certainly not Art. It is meant to be copied by the masses, so stop freaking out that your friend wanted to wear shoes she didn't want to spend $760 on.

posted by Natalie Hormilla

Aug 12, 2008 3:31PM

Gold star for #68!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:36PM

In one day you state that you support and patronize Zara, and then condemn friends who shop at forever 21? you guys have your heads waaayyy up there....

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:37PM

"I have been an avid reader of fashionista for over a year and have rearly commented, but this post made me very angry."

Ditto.
Kyle, you are pathetic and snobby. I'm surprised your friends tolerate you.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:40PM

I tried on the Bakers Tribute knock offs, and couldnt bring myself to buy them, mostly out of fear of breaking an ankle walking in them, but they are on sale for those who are brave enough to try!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:42PM

yikes! people are PISSED.

I have to say, I just buy what I like.. and if something costs the same as my rent, chances are it's going to deter me from buying it.

I stopped shopping at f21 becasue it always falls apart after one wash, but half the time I compliment a friend on a cute shirt/dress/shorts, it's from f21.

Additionally, everyone has time to hunt for the vintage version of something EVERY TIME they can't afford designer clothing.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:46PM

I think fashionista posts these posts to get a rise out of people.... There's no groundbreaking idea here. People will always wear fakes, other will hate them. Fashion will survive.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:50PM

re: the mondrian dress: when i saw it, i thought 'mondrian', not 'YSL archive' or 'DVF' or whatever. and mondrian, my friend, is an ARTIST, something so much higher and greater than any fashion designer could be, and if you're going to accuse f21 of ripping off MONDRIAN, why wouldn't you just accuse dolce for ripping off pollock? it's not exactly like f21 made the dress with 'YSL' emblazoned across it. and if somebody saw that dress and their first reaction was 'ew, YSL rip off' and NOT 'oh, cool mondrian print on a dress,' i'd be disgusted enough that talking to that person would be out of the question.

that being said, i don't shop at F21, and i love luxury goods. but PLEASE. if you're going to do a "would you wear a knock-off" post, can you PLEASE use a RELEVANT example, like topshop's blatant rip-off of balenciaga, prada, and luella (who, by the way, you guys seem to love so much), instead of dragging in a groundbreaking artist from the 20th century? seeing mondrian and YSL together makes me want to vomit and die, and feel sorry for every fashionista who thinks they're partaking in "art."

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:51PM

I sat here and read through (as of now) 76 comments. I agree and disagree, as we all have our own opinions.

There are some of you that said that knock-offs have a very grey line and I completely agree. If you are carrying a blatant knock-off of something where it's pattern for pattern, color for color and basically down to all the specs of the item: that's where I believe the fine line is definitely in the "DO NOT DO" area. Not only are you stripping designers of their hardwork and artistic rights, but you're completely undermining their work. For example, if you're a teacher and one day a machine (or a college student t.a.) just came in and did your lessons word for word and was paid not even 10% of what you make, wouldn't you feel undermined? Almost like what you do for a living is constituted as if it was nothing? Do you maybe think that's how some of these designers feel? And I can hear the other side now saying "Those designers/companies make enough, so it doesn't even make a dent." True. But if you feel that knock-offs are okay, what about the smaller designers? Does your heart go out to them? Do you feel like it's unfair? Isn't that being a hypocrite?
Companies like Forever 21, H&M, Zara aren't the only ones copying each other. EVERYONE DOES IT. It's just the scale of how you do it. Inspirations (in another word, "I really like that, let's make something LIKE it.), are more socially acceptable. You're not completely undermining artistic minds in that case.
In other words, I completely agree with comment #62.

The next and last thing I'll say is going to get people to call me a bitch/pretentious/spoiled/etc...
You come to this site to cause you either love fashion, want to know more about fashion, or are fashion conscious. (hence the name of this site, FASHIONISTA!) In that case, if you're the girl next to me on the subway carrying the horrible Marc Jacobs knockoff and reading this site, you might want to re-consider what fashion is and means to you. Fashion is vastly used an expression of who you are. If you don't care about fashion and about what you make as a statement with your clothing, you're on the wrong site. There's a huge difference between the girl that just wears jeans and t's and the girl who wears the same thing but adds something unique to it.

Knockoffs are inevitable. Some are more judgmental than others, others don't care, others don't know.

And lastly, I agree with Natalie. #68 does some kind of prize.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:55PM

I don't know who is worse, Kyle for his ignorance or Britt for sounding like an idiot. I'm sure neither of you have a garment or accessory in your closet that was not influenced/inspired/KNOCKED OFF another designer.

Good job alienating your readers. Are the people running this site listening?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:55PM

if you're going to invite debate Fashionista, be prepared for the heat. be a little opened minded and respect that your readership comes from such a wide range. from teenagers who know all too well the pains of fitting in with their clothes, to the few who can afford the items you post daily about.

it's those smug looks that alienate and depress those of us who just can't break the gilded ceiling of elite fashion.

i'm all for encouraging personal style, which often is better than anything that comes down a runway. but at the same time, can you blame those of us who shop stores like forever 21 and still have reality to come home too? i think most people who shop f21 aren't die hard fashionistas but regular people who see something they like and better, can afford it. and hopefully like fashion more and more so they can learn about designers and their products. so one day, they don't have to settle.

till then, we do what we have to do and hopefully look good trying.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 3:57PM

p.s. if you saved that desinger-spending-money and put it into a ROTH IRA, you'd have millions of dollars when you retired.

WHAT?! WHAT!?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:00PM

What many people are missing is the difference between fashion and style. Fashion is what you buy and style is what you innately have. Hello, the blog is called fashion ista. Obviously, it's mostly about the goods. Likewise, it's a bit tacky and not-so-stylish to wear cheapy knock off designer goods and call it 'fashion'. It's not - it's a knock off. Totally agree with Kyle on this one. You can't knowingly wear those things and feel good about yourself... you're wearing a stolen shoe.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:05PM

For Guest 68,
How are we supposed to make sure that the designer didn't intend for it so be something else? Contact them personally with a questionnaire? Run around the store in a frenzy asking anyone with ears if the piece is a knock-off? Google it? Check Fashionista.com? My shopping trips aren't intended to be research projects.

If I like it and can afford it, I buy it, I wear it. It's just that simple.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:08PM

That is very pretentious! Not everybody makes enough to afford Prada, Balenciaga, or even ebay! If a person sees something and likes it then that's their business. Why spend the money on the original? This is a very negative post. Fashionista has become very arrogant and shallow.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:09PM

As concerning Fashion/Style:
"it isn't about WHAT you're wearing for God's sake--whether it's from F21 or not. it's about HOW YOU WEAR IT. style is CONFIDENCE, not a brand." (36)

As concerning this post:
"Britt Aboutaleb and Kyle Hayes I hate to break it to you but not only does it make you sound pretentious, but full of shit as well." (43)

As concerning knock-offs/F21:
I don't come from money- I own several high-end designer and mid-range designer clothes/bags/shoes that I have invested in and were usually bought on sale.

I also own one knock off handbag and have bought some for friends while in China. They're fun & cheap- kinda like going to a dive bar!
For the most part I don't like buying direct copies of items (esp shoes) not because I think wearing knockoffs is tacky, but because often times they are total crap in terms of construction and material. The knock-offs I have bought are either dirt cheap joke items (ie. ghetto gold) or well-made but still dirt cheap (it is china after all) some are stolen items from production facilities...so real but still illegal. Marc Jacobs might frown upon such purchases but he's still in Ibiza with Kate Moss and I saw his gigantic apartment in Paris so I have a hard time mustering up much sympathy for his & LVMH's intellectual property rights, plus I think I've more than compensated for my subversion by buying REAL MJ items.

I do like shopping as F21- good jewellery and I've found some really cute dresses and tops there. These have not been direct copies of designer items. I don't think shopping at F21 automatically discredits any style points one might have accumulated- nor does wearing a knock-off, just as wearing head to toe designer doesn't make you stylish.

It's not who you are wearing but what you do with what you have that counts.

posted by etoilee8

Aug 12, 2008 4:11PM

Whoa fast fashion cowgirls. I think 90% of you are totally missing the point of this post. Fashionista isn't saying you have to buy only designer and nothing but designer. But when did we start living in a world where everyone has to ride a trend for two minutes and throw it away? Ladies, it is soooooo much better to save for a couple of nice/pricey items which you love rather than have a closet full of disposable f21 pieces that you'll be sick of after two weeks. And let's not even get started on the ethics of it all. We complain about the state of our environment but do none of you think for a second that buying fast fashion constantly, doesn't contribute to this? Use it and throw it away, such a selfish attitude. Instead of buying a new hand bag every six months, why not save for an amazing handbag that you're gonna love for four years (and sell on eBay when you stop loving it)? Instead of buying five new f21 tops. . . save and buy something nice online that you're gonna wanna wear for three years. I am not wealthy at all and my parents don't give me hand outs. But I hate knock offs and I hate cheap. . . f21 stinks of cheapness. There are very few of my friends who can pull their clothing off, clearly I'm not one of them. I just look like a girl in a cheap dress. Not the look I'm going for.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:16PM

Wow guest 83, why don't u get off your high horse. Then again i bet you are not the ones paying for these designer clothes. Style is about not looking like everyone else and does not matter where you got it from. Who cares where you got it its not stolen. How come you do not judge this site when they do there DIY's which i am sure you do as well.

I think its funny i was reading something Blake Lively said last year how before she got on GG and she would get cute stuff from F21 and get complimented by press and as soon as she said where its from they turned there back, to the point she began to lie.

Who cares wheres its from if it looks good it looks goos.

And you point being anyone who can not spend atleast a 1k on outfit is not stylish, because when can not afford to buy designer all the time, or even vintage which is expensive as well.
I will sleep fine tonight knockoff or not

posted by Natalie Hormilla

Aug 12, 2008 4:16PM

Guys - believe me, we're loving the debate, but if you're going to post several times as a different "guest" then please just take the extra minute to create a sign-in name. Thanks.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:16PM

comment 79

smaller designers don't get knocked off likw Chloe/Dior/YSL do- what happens to them? They go to interviews at big companies like Aritzia or Topshop toting their portfolios and those big companies decide if they can rip off their designs instead of having to pay these struggling artists for their work. No one says anything because these designers don't have the platform LVMH & Gucci do. Does that make you shop less at Topshop or Aritzia? I don't think so.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:16PM

Thanks #83...finally someone else who agrees. all the talk of pretentiousness and "high and mighty"--seems a lot like guilt on behalf of the f21 crowd...I can afford this stuff but many friends cannot...one friend who cannot has more style than I ever will, but she never wears knockoffs, just nice stylish stuff from no name places--exhibit a: vintage fur, velvet leggings, random boots, ribbon necklace a la Lanvin that she made herself. DIY is different--sure you may be imitating but not for profit and sometimes it's not a coveted item to convey status...those YSL Bakers, though, are obviously YSL inspired to anyone that knows/follows fashion....

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:19PM

Recently i found out that over the past 5 years I spent $70K at a small designer boutique that I love - and that doesnt go back the 5 years before when they didnt have a computer system. F21 knocked off one of their summer pieces and i have to say it was sorta cute. I wouldnt buy it, but it was cute. The sad thing is that it was an original design, not a rip off of a painting but actual embroidery etc. And I still shop at f21 - I but their necklaces and bracelets and yes teh bracelts sometimes do break after a few days but many times people think that its a KJL piece or a cool prada or marni necklace when really it was omething simple and chich for $5.70. At teh end of the day f21 is offering something to people who can't afford it - as are top shop and H&M. And I have to say stuff from top shop, H&M and zara arent made any better.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:22PM

Is it just me or did anyone else forget the Mondrian dresses of the 60's and 70's? The go-go dresses?

My mother and my aunt always speak fondly of them from when they were teens, and I'm pretty sure that the dresses were not designer because they didn't grow up rich. So who is copying who??

posted by marc lover

Aug 12, 2008 4:22PM

i'm sorry, but i don't think the baker's version of the tribute sandals are knock offs. that's a pretty basic sandal - it's not like it has a freaking logo on it anywhere. i have them in tan and i love them and don't care who people think they're by! no one i know even knows anything about ysl or the tribute sandal. they just think they're cute!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:25PM

Two points:

1) Listen, I respect art. And I agree, there's something absurd about F21 copying something like the Mondrian dress in such a literal way. It reminds me of grade school, when kids would trace pictures from magazines -- what's the point, really? The original is better (though personally, i don't love the Mondrian, even though normally I'm into mod). But that's just it -- the original is better. Why is it somehow immoral or unethical to wear an inferior version of a designer product? Anyone who recognized the F21 version as a knock off of the YSL would also be able to spot it as a knock off instantly, because they're going to know something about fabric, cut, and craftsmanship. And people who don't aren't going to care, because they don't care about the YSL to begin with. So it's a victimless crime -- your friend couldn't afford the YSL (so YSL didn't lose a customer), and anyone who could afford the YSL is going to look down on the knock-off (so you don't really even get brand dilution, since YSL is selling luxury and craftsmanship, and the F21 dress offers neither).

Personally, I love F21, H&M, Zara... but not for literal knock offs because they look cheap to me. But it's not immoral to buy the knock offs. It's just not fashionable.

2) As others have said, I'm confused when you say your friend offered no explanation for wearing the knock off. She couldn't afford the original. This is not just a reason for buying a knock off -- it's THE reason knock offs exist. Because of all the aforementioned issues with craftsmanship, knock offs are obviously targeted at a demographic that can't afford designer. I'm fine with you guys taking a principled stance on knock offs (though I think your argument is flawed, see #1), but any conversation about knock offs must begin with recognition of the fact that the luxury market creates demand for knock offs specifically because it is a luxury market. Basic economics, my friends.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:28PM

I've been struggling with whether to jump ship from this site for some time. the pretentious tone and hypocritical attitude toward knock-offs have been creeping me out. like a lot of readers, this one was just too much. i mean, even your INTERNS cop an attitude!

based on the reader responses, a common theme seems to be emerging: we don't want to be party to your creepy and judgmental assessment of your friends. (does she know you posted this??) or your creepy and judgmental assessment of people who patronize f21 or any other low-price-point store.

i personally don't buy knock offs but i respect the perogative of others to assemble their outfits as they see fit. i find that assembly process -- and the end result -- interesting. and i thank god that everyone doesn't dress (or shop) just like me...

maybe you should consider reserving the superiority complex for those who actually have contributed to, and helped shape, the face of modern fashion, whether that's sidewalk sartorialists or ms. wintour herself...

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:28PM

honestly - whether YSL or f21, these platforms make girls look like cheap hookers.

i've read this blog since the day it went live and it's just turning into: a) a silly rant of college kids who don't really know too much about anything; b) a flip book for magazine editorials that fashionista did not produce; c) a listing for bad internships/positions at places like showroom seven

what a shame...

posted by fauvism3

Aug 12, 2008 4:31PM

#93--Kyle is a student at FIT as fashionista has said....but who are you to presume his income, his parent's jobs, and whether they support him or not? My parents pay tuition for me but do not buy my clothes, so I have a job and I save and yes I have some nice designer stuff. But I think it's laughable that you are trying to determine someone's life story...who knows??? maybe you are right about kyle, maybe not...but don't judge based on one blog post. props to kyle for generating such a discussion. I am pretty sure this is Fashionista's intent--as someone else said they are journalists, this is their job. And from the discussion, they are doing a pretty good job.

Natalie--been meaning to make an account for a looong time, sorry about posting so much, am sure others did too.

posted by katfancy

Aug 12, 2008 4:32PM

absolutely, not all of us have the luxury of being so snobby. i like fashion and just because i dont make the kind of money to afford it, or get samples sent for free does not mean i should have been fashionably inferior.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:32PM

I have a huge issue with alot of these comments here.

First off, to one of the comments, people who write blogs ARE college educated, like myself, in English Literature and an upcoming Fashion Communications Degree.

Second, we do not all thrive off of mommy and daddy's money (to another comment: 31). I go to school 18 hours a week, work two part time jobs (totalling 40 hours a week), intern one day a week and am the fashion and lifestyle editor for my school paper. I too, have to buy everything (yes, everything) on my own. And no, it's not because I am all "grown up" (21, thank you very much), but I have been doing so since I entered highschool. (also-31 blogger, if you think you've had enoughof the bloggers on Fashionista, stop reading it. You're bringing some serious negativity into this space).

Ibelieve in theintegrity of a designer and the hard work, time, and effort that goes not only into designs, put the creation and formation of clothing and ideas.

I believe wholeheartedly in quality and not quantity. I own quite a few designer goods, but I have worked hard for them. If I really want a designer piece, I'll work for the money, save up, and then buy it. And if I don't want it by the time I have saved up enough cash? Then I must not have wanted it bad enough.

Counting on cheap retail stores to supply knock-off designer pieces is ridiculous. How about specialty/boutique/vintage/thrift stores? And, if you don't have any near your home, what about a retail store like The Gap? They have their own creative direction team that is unique on it's own. And what about Traget? Loads of high-end designers are created low-prices lines so people CAN afford it.

And, now that I'm at it, in relation to the piece by Kyle, when you friend mentioned that nobody would know the difference between the designer piece and a F21 label? I think that's a bloody lie. Just take into consideration things like cut, fit, fabric, etc.

You can't tell me you can't spot a fake LV bag a mile away.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:34PM

@ guest 27.

LOL Perez Hilton? Ouch!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:38PM

@ Guest 84:

I am going to give you the benefit of the doubt and take your question as sarcasm. Of course not every shopping trip will be a research project. Surely you are not twisting my words around that much. I will say this: Fashionista is a fashion blog. It is a blog for those interested in fashion. Fashion trends. Designers. Models. Fashion magazines. Etc. Etc. With that said, the general population of readers (not all, mind you, but most) will be familiar with the latest trends in the industry (not necessarily by reading Fashionista.com, but through exposure through a variety of mediums (magazines, advertisement, runway coverage, etc etc). Knock-offs are generally produced as copies of extremely popular items (not all, mind you!) and thus it seems that one might easily be conscious of their wardrobe choices being that they already enjoy "researching" fashion by doing what they love (looking at magazines, admiring models, commenting on blogs, whatever pleases you most). Certainly not everyone is perfect 100% of the time. Maybe that MJ coat I bought last week was a knock-off of something at some point and I didn't know it. The point is, if you are mindful of knock-offs most of the time and do your best not to perpetuate bad business then life is good. So please, don't turn your shopping trips into retail insanity on my account. The point is, this debate is concerned with the ethics involved in designer knock-offs and what that says about someone who knowingly participates in this extremely judgmental industry. I think it's awesome if you can afford something and you love it, you wear it. But just don't be naive enough to think that a blog which concerns itself with the fashion industry might have a different opinion.

xoxo Guest 68

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:45PM

Sorry, YSL, not DVF.

Here's a tricky dilemma. Richard Chai for Target: He knocked-off his OWN design for the capsule collection. Should we not buy it because it isn't the exact original design? Hmmm....

-guest 27

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:46PM

It's hard to engage in meaningful discussion when the original post is full of so much attitude and judgments. Of course, people will get defensive.
Nonetheless, I think what this post shows how Fashionista itself isn't sure of what its identity is. Zara has tons of knock-offs--I know because I shop there all the time. You praise Zara and then just above the post knock knock-offs. What the heck? You say that Topshop doesn't make appearances in the Adventures in Copyright section because they produce inspirations. Two days later, I imagine after being bombarded with emails stating otherwise, you really stick it to Topshop with one post after another about their copied pieces. It seems the readers are finally catching on. I also don't understand why you throw out these obviously complicated questions, let the readers throw their sometimes very well constructed criticisms or observations around, and then never return to the topic. There is no engagement or rebuttal, but maybe just ad revenues?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:47PM

Haha! My biggest problem is the combo of the sandals with the dress!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:52PM

HAHAHA guest 105, that may be the best argument yet!

-27

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:53PM

god you sound like the biggest bitch ever. i really hope your "friend" doesn't read this.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:57PM

#88, you missed my point (referring to #83). You can be more stylish by wearing an outfit you made yourself, with vintage pieces or cute TopShop/F21/Zara items (a la guest #91). I don't understand your 'I bet you do not pay for it' comment because I do... so it's a rather moot point. But I will not purchase an item I know was stolen and then mass produced. That's disgusting.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:59PM

http://www.newyorker.com/talk/financial/2007/09/24/070924ta_talk_surowiecki

posted by etoilee8

Aug 12, 2008 4:59PM

Guest 100 took the words right out of my mouth in a highly articulate manner. Well said. (Coming from one girl who works hard for the money and buys nice merchandise to another. When I was in college, ages ago I worked three jobs at once. And still bought my odd Marc Jacobs purchase).

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 4:59PM

I do not believe in wearing knock-offs. Like a few of the commenters have stated it is tacky to wear a completely knocked off item. Designers work just as hard as the rest of us to design for houses like YSL and Balenciaga; to have Bakers rip off a shoe and produce a cheap carbon copy. Tacky!

I prefer to work hard and save the money and buy the originals. Lets face it, I'm not a Hearst and my mother is not Ms. Wintour. Im far from rich but not poor either! Hard working middle-class struggling fashion stylist here. I have several designer goods that I have worked hard to obtain; no freebies for me. That's what makes those pieces that much more special because I worked hard to get those new Gucci lace-ups.

With that said would I wear a Knock of, absolutely not!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 5:00PM

i agree with you. i would never wear a knockoff. haters 2 the left!

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 5:00PM

highschool?

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 5:00PM

Wow you are a terrible friend

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 5:04PM

I buy and wear whatever I think is cute...if it's a knockoff..so be it.

posted by guest

Aug 12, 2008 5:06PM

Guest 27: of course not. He's not ripping anyone off of that design. He created it, only in two seperate ways (for two different price points)himself. The design, whether at Target or in boutique still belong to him.

-Guest 100