With so much advertising about designer handbags and “cheap discount deals” on replica designer handbags– YOU NEED TO KNOW the difference between authentic, knockoff, replica and fake designer bags, BEFORE YOU BUY.

Reading an article about “replica” designer handbags this morning, I realized the author had no clue about the difference between a fake and a knockoff – and there’s a mile wide difference between the two.

A knockoff is a style similar to a designer bag. Sometimes knockoffs look like a designer brand from a distance, but it’s obvious they’re not the real deal upon closer inspection. These knockoffs are most often very cheaply made, and don’t hold up well when you use them. They’re not usually marketed by reputable department stores and discount outlets, but you’ll see them at flea markets and the like.

Most low to moderately-priced brands sell their version of knockoffs based on popular high-end designer styles as well. These versions aren’t really copies of designer bags, but can be similar in style. The manufacturers put their own label on the bags, and usually market them in mainstream deparment and discount stores. These lesser brands provide access to stylish, trendy looks for those who can’t afford to spend thousands on designer goods and the quality is certainly acceptable. Copycats like this have been around as long as people have been lusting for the look of the elite at a price they can afford, and they’re not illegal to sell.

A fake is made to mimic a designer bag, label and all. The bag says it’s a Gucci, Louis, or Chanel, but it’s not all that. Some fakes are really good these days, and they’re not cheap. You can pay hundreds for a fake bag that will fool the average person. However, someone well-versed in designer goods will likely be able to tell the difference with scrutiny.

Oh, in case you’re wondering, “replica” handbags are fakes. Replicas, fakes, tributes, counterfeits – it doesn’t matter what you call them – they’re all phoney and illegal to sell. It’s wrong to buy from businesses marketing them whether you’re shopping out of a car trunk on the street corner or patronizing an e-store on the Web.

The bottom line here:

Buy the best authentic bag you can afford, like the genuine Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton bag if you want true quality and craftsmanship. If that’s out of your league, you might just happen to feel better about yourself for a number of reasons when purchasing a quality, authentic Calvin Klein or Coach handbag for $200-300 instead of spending the same amount on a bag with a fake high-end label. If that’s still too rich for you, take advantage of knockoffs to achieve designer looks on a budget and save your pennies toward a genuine designer bag splurge at some point in the future.

Pamela Wiggins writes for Examiner.com. Read more of Pamela’s articles at her Home Page.