Why this blog?
Apart from the fact that I would love to share the things I enjoy in my life with you, this blog is also dedicated to give you a little bit more (background) information on fakes. With this site I am trying to create more awareness and hope to make this a counterfeit-free world!
What is a counterfeit?
A counterfeit is a fake production of the original. It is against the law to produce, sell or own a fake.
What is a trademark?
A trademark is a sign that differentiates the products and/or services of a company from those of another company. Almost every product, service or a company has a brand nowadays. In the field of designer brands you can think of Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci and many more. Trademarks are someone’s intellectual property.
Why should you not own, buy or sell fakes?
An original product or trademark is property of the rightful owner. He or she owns the rights to this product or trademark. In case this is a trademark it most probably is registered as a trademark. If it is a product it is most highly protected by copyright or even registered as a design. These types of rights are called intellectual property. It is illegal to infringe these rights, since these types of property are protected by law. Producing a (identical) copy of the original is called infringement and is basically stealing someone’s property.
In addition, in many occasions counterfeit products are produced by organized (terrorists) groups. These kind of groups are very well organized that use child labor, sweat shops and slavery to fabricate counterfeits. Apart from these activities they are often involved in human trafficking, selling drugs and weapons.
Apart from the above, safety measures most of the time will not be taken into account by these organizations and these fake products are often of much poorer quality than the authentic products.
I have heard that many large companies of well known trademarks are not producing their products in a fair way either. So I don't see why it is a problem if I buy a fake.
There are some rumors that some ‘high end brands’ have been guilty of slavery, sweat shops or child labor in the past. However, the malpractice of these companies does not give you an excuse to buy counterfeit products, does it?
I have heard that it is allowed to own fakes.
It is not allowed to own fakes. It is against the law. However, it is simply impossible to act against all the fakes in the world.
Authentic products are so expensive, I really cannot afford one. A fake may be a good alternative?
I agree, many authentic designer products are very expensive and completely overpriced. It is totally understandable that you too want to carry that gorgeous bag of those beautiful shoes. However, fakes are never an alternative for the real thing. If you have your eyes set on a designer item, why not try to buy a pre-loved item or rent one?
In case you are looking for a nice designer bag you can take a look on www.sacdeluxe.nl or www.bagborroworsteal.com where you can rent the latest and most gorgeous handbags. Or buy a pre-loved item on www.designer-vintage.com or www.ebay.com or on one of the many online consignment stores.
Finally, let's not forget about the sales. Even designers will have sales. A fantastic time to buy that bag you have always wanted. Take a look at www.net-a-porter.com or www.outnet.com for designer stuff.
What difference does it make that I am carrying a fake, no one will notice.
First of all, you think no one knows you are a carrying a fake. But are you completely sure about that? Lots of people that regularly buy designer items have a great eye to distinguish a fake from a genuine item. Let's not forget that even though you might be able to convince your friends that you have an authentic bag, you will always know that you have a knock-off! How comfortable is it to wear a fake item knowing it's fake?
How to safely trade on the internet if I am not sure whether a product is authentic?
Ask the seller questions about authenticity of the product. Ask for evidence, such as a proof of purchase. Ask for (more) pictures of the product. Especially for details of hardware, labels, hologram stickers, authenticity cards, etc.
If possible try to meet the seller in person to close the deal. First check the product thoroughly before paying.
Try to find more information about the seller on Google. He might be well known for selling fakes.
If applicable, check the feedback ratings of the seller.
Sites such as Ebay offer buyer’s protection. If you decide to purchase something on this site, make sure you are using Paypal and pay with a credit card. Paypal and most credit card companies offer protections for buyers.
Keep all details such as e-mail correspondence until the deal has been completely finished and you are fully satisfied and absolutely sure about the authenticity of the product.
If something just doesn’t feel right, then listen to your gut feeling. Don’t buy it, if you have any doubts! Often your instinct already tells you something is off!
And at last, if something seems too good to be true, chances are that it really is too good to be true…
What should I look for if I want to buy something on the internet and if I am not sure whether something is authentic?
Make efforts to do some research in advance by checking the product in store or online.
Have it authenticated. There are sites that offer authentification against payment, such as www.mypoupette.com. Or have it authenticated on www.purseforum.com for free.
What can I do if I think I bought a fake, thinking it was authentic?
In the event that you bought the product online, check the site’s policy.
EbayClick here for more information about Ebay’s policy on fakes. Here you can also contact Ebay to report a fake.
Designer-Vintage.comContact the owners of www.designer-vintage.com
Why is your blog written in English?
Although I am Dutch, I have decided to write in English. This way, I hope I can reach more people. Since English is not my mother tongue I hope you will forgive me if I make a mistake!
I have a specific question.
If you have a specific question, please send me an e-mail and I will try and see whether I can be of any help! Please note that I am not an expert on spotting all fakes from authentics. I can only speak from my own personal experience. I can however, share my view and advise and hopefully prevent you from buying any fakes.