Designer Handbags - Replica or Authentic?

By Anne Clarke

Handbags are no longer just items of practicality, but have become a symbol of style and self-identification and the demand for fashionable designer handbags shows no sign of slowing.

From practical to flamboyant, fashionable brand names create any and every size, style or color to pique every woman's unique desire for style. As with any accessory, handbags also serve as an extension of the wearer's personality; whether or not you're flashy or low-key, you can find a bag that suits every outfit or mood.

Today's fashion designer handbags cost upward of $1000 or more, and even if you can afford one, it's inevitable that a new "it" bag will come along next month, making yours dated. Not only are designer replica handbags a fraction of the price, many even have the signature designer insignia - making them practically identical to each other.

Most women long for a brand name to wear on their arm, but most cannot afford the $1000 or more price tags on these designer handbags. There are many designer inspired handbags just as good looking as the originals.

Some advantages of designer inspired handbags are that they're vastly more affordable than a major designer label. They match the current trend, and the craftsmanship of some is so good that distinguishing between a replica and a real bag is becoming increasingly difficult.

If you're worried about the lack of authenticity, designer inspired handbags are by no means cheap knockoffs of a real bag. They serve the same purpose and, in many cases, are made from the same material as an original, which means the only thing you're paying extra for is the name and where it's made (usually China or Italy).

Online is a great place to search for designer handbags (replica or non), including styles made popular by Luis Vuitton, Gucci, Coach and Christian Dior. Since replicas have become such a big trend, manufacturers and retailers give more attention to detail, ensuring that your bag will look identical to the most popular designer labels.

The major concern when buying designer handbags of the replica variety is figuring out if they share the quality of an original. Here are some tips:

Only buy replica handbags labeled "inspired by" instead of those that claim to be authentic. There should be small, but visible differences so that the replica bag has the look and feel of the designer bag that inspired it.

Still be prepared to pay a good amount of money for a quality replica designer purse ($200-$500 range). The "designer inspired" version will not require thousands of dollars, but still expect to pay for things like quality and hand stitching.

When shopping online look for disclaimers. If the disclaimer states that the handbag is inspired by or in the style of the designer, rather than a copy of the designer original or falsely claiming to be authentic, you won't be breaking any laws by buying one. Reputable companies will issue valid disclaimers and they will sell quality merchandise. Carefully examine any company selling replica purses for the quality, workmanship and customer service feedback.

Replica handbags will still cost you a weeks' salary - so make sure the quality is worth it. Just because you are buying a replica doesn't mean you should settle for poor construction or cheap materials. Know the quality of the original to know if the quality of the replica is acceptable.

Choosing replica handbags involves more than thinking you've found a deal that's too good to be true from a street vendor for $50. Just do a little homework - understand the disclaimer statement, become familiar with designer quality and carefully examine replica handbags before purchasing.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes health and fitness, gardening, and fashion. For more of her useful articles on designer handbags, please visit Handbags, supplier of fine designer handbags and replica designer handbags.

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