Most consumers would never knowingly buy a knockoff of a designer handbag because they consider it unethical or view the items as being of poor quality. Many people are not aware that some retailers sell “dupes,” which are versions of luxury brands that offer the same results at a fraction of the price. Dupes can take the form of clothing, shoes, or handbags.
Unlike knockoffs, dupes do not claim to be genuine designer merchandise. They are similar enough in design that an unsuspecting customer or member of the public could easily confuse them with designer goods from a distance or in a photo. Knockoffs are illegal, but dupes are not. However, they can still pose a threat to fashion designers, although it can be difficult for them to do anything about it.
Counterfeit goods that copy designer styles and logos are illegal and can be punished under the law. In many cases, however, it is hard for designers of handbags and other goods to protect their designs. In some instances, designers are unable to get their designs copyrighted, patented, or trademarked. This is because American copyright law does not protect useful articles in their entirety.
This is why so many designers find it difficult to fight back when a company copies their creations if it is not directly violating a copyright, patent, or trademark. Companies that make their products slightly different from the originals can protect themselves from legal action.
Since designers find it difficult to protect their products, the number of dupes has been steadily increasing. This enables fast fashion retailers and fashion websites to offer customers dupes even before original designer goods make it to stores in some cases.
While some designers try to stop others from copying their designs, others consider imitation flattering. Some believe that copying designer goods creates healthy competition, while others believe it dilutes brands.
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