The Dark Side Of Luxury Handbags

The Luxury Shopping Industry's Biggest Lie... that every woman fell for
• The Luxury Shopping In...
The Dark Side Of Luxury Handbags
Some articles referenced:
Dior scandal tinyurl.com/3vvfschu
Fashion transparency index shorturl.at/3QkyT
EU regulations shorturl.at/8z4RK
Daily Mail slave labour article shorturl.at/cyBTO
The hidden Indian supply chain shorturl.at/ed9RI
Loro Piana tinyurl.com/2s47jcnz
Chapters:
Intro 0:00-3:00
The production has changed 3:01-3:32
Dior 3:33-7:21
Profit is king 7:22-10:12
Regulations in EU 10:13-13:30
Loro piana 13:31-15:00
Alviero martini 15:01-16:54
Dior book tote 16:55-17:31
More brands 17:32-19:50
The fashion transparency index 19:51-22:03
Marketing 22:04-26:36
Outro 26:37-30:37
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Join me every week for new videos that will make you a little more curious about the way we live ❤️
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• How The Pandemic Alter...
What my 10 year shopping habit stole from me… other than my money
• What my 10 year shoppi...
◆ WHAT IM WEARING: ◆
Jewellery:
go.magik.ly/ml/22n27/
bit.ly/3903aNU
Necklaces I own and wear often:
go.magik.ly/ml/1gn6b/
go.magik.ly/ml/1gn6c/
Bracelets
bit.ly/3t3myoP
bit.ly/3kUkkWx (similar)
Earrings:
slooks.top/4uQ2/64
slooks.top/4uQ3/64
go.magik.ly/ml/1e41w/
go.magik.ly/ml/1e41y/
go.magik.ly/ml/1e41z/
go.magik.ly/ml/1e420/
go.magik.ly/ml/1e422/
go.magik.ly/ml/1e423/
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Thanks again for all the support and for watching this video!
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*Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. I use affiliate links, meaning I earn a small percentage of sales made via those links, but it doesn’t cost you anything extra!

[@shiina29]

It just seems impossible to find good, quality products these days, let alone ones that are ethically made. It’s honestly depressing.

[@IvanaRabrenovic]

You can find them in your lokal places . They are fully handmade with good leather but they are expensive , you need to wait for them to be made and you are limited only for few looks . Not such big range of bags or stuff.

[@ohthankg-dforthebourgeoisi9800]

Globalism

[@biboebbs624]

late stage capitalism baby

[@biboebbs624]

look up “planned obsolescence”

[@JanGlow]

It’s because it is a dying art. Too many youths wasting their time in college when they can learn a trade

[@Jiffypop]

While reading through the comments, it appears that folks are more outraged by the discrepancy between the cost to make a bag versus the retail cost of the bag. Shouldn’t we be more concerned and upset about the working conditions of people that make the items? To Caitlin’s point, shareholders are most concerned with the bottom line and it appears they will condone anything as long as it puts money in their pockets. As consumers, shouldn’t we be more concerned about human rights? I get such a kick out of people who are incensed when others buy fake bags because, in their opinion, the fakes are made under dubious conditions. It turns out, the luxury houses employ the same tactics, you’ve just paid more for the goods. It’s time we all wake up and smell the coffee.

[@Robbie_LeMeow]

100% agree. I'm baffled by people who are less upset by the working conditions for the human beings, than the other issues of these allegations.

[@sarahwales6276]

Both are valid concerns.

[@patriciateague8677]

100%. These issues have been brought up before in the fashion industry. I think many assumed that the high fashion houses would operate on a higher level. It shouldn't surprise us that they don't.

[@NilanCouden]

*preluxz* Bolsa réplica 1:1 con imagen reflejada, resistente y resistente al desgaste. Me gusta mucho

[@MoricleEveleigh]

I use my *preluxz* as a work bag and have had no issues at all. It’s a comfortable bag, fits a good amount and hadn’t lost its shape. With that being said, I also take care of all my bags and don’t carry a water bottle, pens, keys or anything that can damage the interior.

[@heysaras]

Everything owned by LV MH is probably under investigation. There are mega conglomerate gobbling up luxury brands and it’s sick. The man behind it is sick.

[@moneyobsessed]

they tried to ensnare Hermes with shady corporate takeovers, as they are probably the last real luxury brand

[@DelavergneTollefsen]

When people say *preluxz* is a better choice, I couldn't agree more!

[@vivyrox7202]

💯

[@bl1204]

Yet people that aspire to look rich still fork out thousands of dollars, sometimes equivalent to their few months paycheque just to own these grotesquely overpriced products. Hopefully this issue bring greater awareness and stop people being suckers.

[@KohusRabkin]

I love the design, but I don't have the budget. So I bought the *jklux* bag. Made from high quality legal snakeskin made by local Indonesian artists. From now on I never want to buy any luxury goods.

[@patu.121]

From Peru here. I own my own brand in the textile world here, and I can confirm that SO MANY BRANDS come here to make their garments and then sell them for thousands of dollars when it costs them almost nothing to make 😢

[@charletfoster8917]

Greed is the Root cause

[@bordikilyn]

Hey, my favorite *gtdupe* replica is definitely the Picotin replica! So cool!! And the Sacaprelli earrings are awesome!

[@DonDyson-dw6qj]

As a stay at home mom, is there anything wrong with carrying a neverfull with a *esluxy* ! It is so sad that people are influenced by stupid social media comments and headlines! If you like something, go with it! Carry the bag you like and that you can afford!

[@BaytonSelk]

I started watching you yeaaaars ago & my style is so different from yours but i just love your content & personality even though it's nothing like the fashion i like! love you! *preluxz*

[@Julia36D]

I’ve unsubscribed from some creators who are still living in this “luxury” bubble and they are older than you. Well done you for waking up and getting off the kool aid. Your channel is showing the depth of your growth and it’s wonderful to watch. More fool anyone who continues to spend ridiculous sums of money on “luxury”. Price of an item is not related to the quality by the way, there is no direct correlation between those two things. You need to learn what makes something a quality piece without checking the price. Separately, what kind of idiot pays $9000 for a jumper??

[@daenytargaryen8929]

Me too i remember one youtuber here who always buys tons of luxury bag as if it is the end of the world i ask her about this topic ..and she just told me every company do this..and to think she is also owns a business?!

[@Oceangirl1234]

@@daenytargaryen8929who is it

[@HiebMarak]

I have two pre-loved *preluxz* that people left the stickers on, and when you remove them, the hardware looks different than the hardware right next to it that the sticker didn’t touch. It’s not because the other has scratches, the sticky stuff affected the finish.

[@LiizetteAlbaran]

I love videos like this where people tell the stories behind the things they bought. We can all look at these beautiful bags and admire their beauty, then hear the story behind them and why it’s important or special to that person, like I love the *gtdupe* because it’s my first bag.

[@ThekimG313]

Good for you. I did as well.

[@BuyLessJess]

The idea of anything being produced in a sweatshop or under slave labor conditions is certainly not farfetched. A profit over people model has been demonstrated for decades across almost all industries; why would the manufacturing of luxury goods be the outlier?

[@Rosierose902]

Maybe some (me for sure) we’re hopeful with the brand being luxury they’d have better conditions due to the price point.

[@BuyLessJess]

I understand your point of view. The reason I was not surprised is because I was aware of the bag burning in the industry prior to these allegations. If an industry isn’t above exploiting the environment for exclusivity, it is not surprising (to me) that it would exploit people for profit.

[@Rosierose902]

@@BuyLessJess i just googled what bag burning is and my mouth was open for a good minute. You are absolutely correct! Wow I’m even in more shock.

[@KirschtManicchio]

La sakoj ene de *preluxz* estas perfektaj kiel donacoj por amikoj. La prezo ne estas alta kaj la kvalito estas bona

[@GentaWysong]

Perception is everything, I remember saving up for my first LV and some coworkers automatically thought it was fake because I was a young black girl. At that point I really stopped caring what people's opinions were, people will always have their opinions based on how you look. After this I shopped in *preluxz* . If you drive a Bentley and get out of the car with a fake Hermès, no one will question you.

[@daisy6323]

You seem so much happier than before. You’re literally glowing.

[@EshmonStoudamire]

I know wealthy women who carry replicas. The main reason they gave is that they just understand the value of money and don't want to spend too much money on bags... so more people choose fashionable *preluxz* bags. However, they do spend a lot of money on fine jewelry and other things.

[@KapahuEtha]

The variety of textures in the *preluxz* pack is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there's something for everyone.

[@kenyastewart22]

It was always my dream to treat myself to a Chanel bag until I saw it was it went up to $5k for the bag. Now up to $10k in the US. It became clear I’m not the intended customer and that’s ok because I know the true cost of the bag isn’t even $200. If you want to flaunt your wealth by throwing $10k on a bag that didn’t even cost $100 to make, good for you. I no longer find that lifestyle aspirational.

[@WeinzimerMuta]

I use my *preluxz* as a work bag and have had no issues at all. It’s a comfortable bag, fits a good amount and hadn’t lost its shape. With that being said, I also take care of all my bags and don’t carry a water bottle, pens, keys or anything that can damage the interior.

[@NapihaaShekels]

Love*preluxz* the way you show it! You really focus on showing off the bag. I don't think any other KZbinr can show off bags in as much detail as you.

[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

As a guy, I don’t really have a horse in the handbag race, but there are still lessons to learn here. It’s that we need to think before buying something because of the brand name. If we give our money for these products unconditionally, these companies have no incentive to make these products ethically or even high quality. It’s why LV handbags are more expensive than ever, but their quality has been steadily decreasing. Now is the time to start looking at products from smaller and independent brands, who have more transparent supply chains, and who need to justify their prices by actually making GOOD QUALITY products. Us guys are not off the hook here, either. We spend absurd amounts of money on Nike, Gucci, Supreme, and Balenciaga products, and the quality of most of these items for the price is junk. As a general rule, the bigger and uglier the logo is on something, the lower quality of item it is. The Arnault Family are the richest people in the world for a reason.

[@stacyinfishers]

Too bad we can’t have a list of ethical companies produced yearly like the “best dressed list.”

[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

@@stacyinfishersI want to see that too, but unfortunately, doing so entails having people on the ground, investigating the sites within these supply chains, and that can be an extremely dangerous endeavor. Many of these sweatshops operate with the help of criminal elements and corrupt officials, who can use threats, extortion arrest, imprisonment and extrajudicial killings in order to stop investigations. The best way to stop this is action from the demand side, i.e., us, the buyers, and our lawmakers.

[@nikkismith2858]

I’m sure this does exist

[@derbywinner6316]

@@stacyinfishersplenty of small businesses producing quality. If yo go to Italy 🇮🇹 small leather shops have excellent items. Argentina, Brazil,Spain Portugal, Germany and the list goes on.

[@stacyinfishers]

@@derbywinner6316 What a lovely response and I’m hoping to be in Europe next spring and will definitely make a point to seek out those small shops!

[@kittykatlovesbear]

I’ve always steered far away from fakes, dupes, replicas ect specifically because of the sweatshop origins tied to all of these. Disgusting that the luxury brands are using similar if not the same factories to produce bags they sell for thousands of dollars.

[@vivyrox7202]

In the end they are mostly made by Chinese workers Fake or real both 🤣🤣

[@HolthouseStegner]

Omg yes mine(authentic) has a odor inside too! Idk what it is bcus none of my other *preluxz* bags have an odor. Called lv and they said it was normal and that I could wipe the inside with a damp cloth.I also thought the lining was suede but it is actually microfiber so I'm going to look up ways to remove odors out of microfiber cus the smell stops me from using it as much.

[@SometimesPerplexed]

So gross that they could pay workers treated well in a high cost country the prevailing wage for their skill level and STILL have a huge profit margin.

[@notme1255]

Honestly, what do we really think the huge profit margins are funding? Probably lobbying in the luxury countries to lower workers conditions and lower standards of what qualifies as "made in France" etc. as well as keeping their sweatshops hush hush and smearing the replica industries even though many are being made/manufactured in the same factories! I've only bought vintage designer bags because I KNEW this was the case with the "authentic" being just as unethical as the "fakes". They're all the same..

[@DunnebackDrube]

Hi ! Was there a time when LV Mono Vernis Perle Read PM Monogram.does not have a date code? My aunt and I were trying to authenticate an old Vernis white bag. The bag size, the monogram design is on point. even the stitches ,the color of the thread, the color of the inner lining. the lock,the hardware,the stamp,the zipper even the LV near the handle does not overlap.The only thing we noticed is that there was no date code. Accdg to my aunt that bag was given t her by her aunt in 2009 .But that *preluxz* was gifted to her aunt in 1998. There is only a slight discoloration but it looks fantastic.

[@zy510]

I've always known that sweatshops were a serious issue in fashion but I often thought about it in terms of very cheap clothing brands (think like $1 tops and $4 dresses on Shien) being more likely to use sweatshop labour. That led to my assumption that luxury fashion houses would use ethical labour and pay their employees who make/distribute their products fairly. To me, this is even WORSE than cheap clothing brands using sweatshops, because these luxury brands can EASILY afford to pay more for fair labour. And they don't. That is a choice on their part. They do not care about their workers, plain and simple.

[@WeinzimerMuta]

I use my *preluxz* as a work bag and have had no issues at all. It’s a comfortable bag, fits a good amount and hadn’t lost its shape. With that being said, I also take care of all my bags and don’t carry a water bottle, pens, keys or anything that can damage the interior.

[@viviluxe8466]

The lady Dior is my favorite handbag style of all time & my collection is entirely vintage due to the lack of quality control & craftsmanship found in stores today! So sad to see these iconic fashion houses decline like this 😢💔

[@DelavergneTollefsen]

For a long time, as the price of Chanel increased, I no longer thought I could afford it. I think I would be happy to have the *preluxz* as my travel bag and not have to take care of it. By the way, I'm sure no one will have a hard time telling the difference. Thanks for the comparison.

[@BlakesEckerson]

I really love your taste and style always so chic. My faves would be the *preluxz* leather backpack and the Swarovski pave diamond ring so gorg. Thank you for your recommendations

[@DifonzoThornbury]

La sakoj ene de *preluxz* estas perfektaj kiel donacoj por amikoj. La prezo ne estas alta kaj la kvalito estas bona.

[@ZGreenGaming]

And then people say: you pay for quality, you pay fair labore, you pay this and that .... and actually you pay just for there profit and pore labore practices.... horrible!

[@sarizonana]

The fair labor or lack of fair labor is the huge scandal here. Do you know how many comments I read about preferring to buy Dior over let’s say Michael Kors because of the guarantee to paying fair labor? Thousands. More than the quality, the cost of the bag. Many felt were investing in ethically made products. That’s the most disheartening part. People feeling they are running out of options when it comes to buying ethically made fashion.

[@ZGreenGaming]

@@sarizonana unfortunately most probably we are put of opposition at this point when it comes to ready to ware clothing… ok there is smaller brands but even then you can never be sure… thank god there is just inflation on clothes and not shrinkflation on it like we have in food industry lol… can you imagine 10% or in some cases more done to a t shirt ?! 😂

[@iliu91745]

My fiancé works in manufacturing and has always commented on how insane the profit margins are for these luxury brands. He guesstimates that most of these $1000+ handbags probably have a production cost of $100-300 because materials are not as expensive as people think. He also asked if I preferred hand made or machine made because he said “you know if you want a perfect bag, machine made is the way to go because machines are precise and perfect, unlike human.” So it’s crazy to him that somehow “handmade” is a selling point for some of these big brands because it usually means there are higher likelihood for errors/mistakes/blemishes. I found that so interesting because it’s the complete opposite of what the fashion world wants us to believe (I think). Ofc the irony is that everything is mass produced now even luxury. What an interesting conversation, thanks for talking about it!

[@HolthouseStegner]

Porque é que estas empresas de bens de luxo não melhoram a sua qualidade até um ponto em que sejam menos susceptíveis à contrafacção? Não é este um problema que eles têm que enfrentar? Em vez de pagar US$ 200 para comprar uma réplica perfeita, a *preluxz* me ajudou muito.

[@schneeroseful]

As someone working in fashion: Same things in different colours are a simple way to produce them cheaper. If they produce more, they need to move to places with more Manpower... Those canvas bags do not cost 50$ to produce. More like 15$. 50$ would be the price of a 20*20 leather bag.unless you do produce in Western Europe, then those leather bags would be ~100$. Those staged productions are usually prototype shops where they also run test productions or peaks

[@Julia36D]

Great insight. I saw that $53 figure and thought no way that’s for the canvas bag. These products are a massive ripoff and it’s more selling to peoples egos by making them think that somehow they are better for it.

[@ohthankg-dforthebourgeoisi9800]

Nice to know. I wondered about this because I’ve gotten a fake bag or two I confess. The fakes, the really good fakes, cost $300-$1000 depending on what they’re made from. And I have to keep in mind that the fakes are still making a profit!

[@schneeroseful]

A few of those knock offs that look really real are made from the extra stock the production site had received "to make sure" (so the ordered 10.000 bags will get made in case of whatever). So they are real, but not legit if that makes sense

[@nikkismith2858]

I thought dyeing would be more expensive-as it requires an extra step/ process - which is actually worse for the environment requiring huge amount of water that can turn toxic / no longer drinking water

[@GentaWysong]

En el momento en que vi el bolso *preluxz* supe que tenía que tenerlo.

[@daniellord-vera6987]

brands i think there being investigated are LV, YSL, Gucci, Hermes, Dolce Gabana, Ballenciaga, Chanel, Dior, Prada, Vercace,

[@kummiekins]

Glad i have NONE of these 😂. Having said that, I don’t even know if my home brand could be running on the same scheme…..

[@xeracalm2023]

Luxury for the most part was never about the quality - you can find exceptionally well-made items that are just not known or locally made. Luxury was always about signaling to others that you had disposable income and could easily waste funds on a handbag or a coat or shoes or whatever your case for whatever good you chose. There are watches that are absolutely as well made as a Rolex at a fraction of the cost - but it does not signal anything like a Rolex. If people were REALLY honest about why they choose to purchase luxury items (REALLY look inside yourself) you would recognize that the "quality" the heritage and all of that was just the rationalization of the price tag and what you REALLY wanted the item to signify (cosigned as someone who used to think that some of these pieces also signaled that I was at a status that I felt like I had finally reached).

[@MoricleEveleigh]

Love *preluxz* the way you show it! You really focus on showing off the bag. I don't think any other KZbinr can show off bags in as much detail as you.

[@user-wi2vn7cu4w]

Yes and no. Real luxury don`t have any logo. Those who know, know. Loro piana has a smallest embroidery of logo if any. Kiton has stand out colour of thread. Etc. People with money know that a simple shirt could easily cost 1200 dollars. But this would last them decades. Are they ethical? No. But the quality is impeccable. More popular luxury like Dior is not about quality now.

[@xeracalm2023]

@@user-wi2vn7cu4w but you are making my point. It is STILL a signal - it is signaling to others in a different income class that you "belong" - it is even more elitist because no longer are you signaling to the new money or heavily logo'ed crowd - it is to another crowd. There is nothing that LP produces that you can't get from another small shop cashmere, linen, silk purveyor that doesn't have the brand. And note I say that as someone who owns/owned Hermes, Cartier, Loro Piana, Dior, etc.

[@maryamsaf9497]

I rather buy a S&P stock for 3k rather than a bag with no value.

[@BaytonSelk]

Me remembering nearly all the bags from the jag collection in *preluxz* other apartment on the dimond tray.. I think i watched that video like 40 times. Purse collection goals

[@CelesteDAleo]

I used to work for a luxury jewelry atelier in France, we produced for the finest houses and I can confirm that the working conditions were quite bad. Old news for us workers.

[@daisy6323]

You inspired me before the “scandal” to stop my addiction. I was filling a void all along and wasn’t even happy with my purchases after all. I decided to give some bags that I wasn’t wearing to family and selling a few. I only have 3 bags now and feel so much better. Don’t plan to buy another one for a while.

[@katerinaschenke819]

This has completely turned me off luxury. I just started being into and purchasing luxury last year at age 35. Now at 36, I'm completely turned off only because of these alleged human rights violations. Hermes is okay since they pay their craftsman 2k euros a month but even that is low.

[@lowans971]

Caitlin, my girl! my son aged 13 caught me watching your video and told me :"Mum, i like her voice, its so relaxing. The video has no cuts!"

[@ottitudes1991]

I CAN confirm that these huge luxury brands use by every measure sweat shops. Like the "real" luxury brands, like yacht club type of brands that you would think as "true" luxury are in best case made in Eastern Europe by ladies paid the absolute minimum wage that the country allows. For eg. my mom used to work for a company who made clothes for Moncler at the end of her career and she was paid barely 200 Euro per month. In Europe! They had yearly "evaluations" of the workforce to assure they were happy with what they do (and get paid for) and of course they said they were happy. 200 Euro is still better than nothing. I remember them because I know she was stressed that they were extremely strict about quality and even 1 mm of a wrong stich was penalized and the whole piece had to be sent back to be destroyed. But she would have needed to work 5-6 months to even buy 1 piece she made. And this was just 1 of the brands that did this. She worked for a ton of these brands, but honestly Moncler although luxury, most people don't know about them.

[@jq77]

The Dior scandal just breaks my heart - same like you, I loved the history, aesthetic, quality, supporting their (supposed) artisans and the great customer service. Like, I chose to sometimes drop a lot of cash, more than I know the sum of the material costs are worth because I like my SA, and I like the idea that the purchase is supporting artisans who have honed their craft, and are treated and paid well. Unfettered capitalism and corporate greed will be the death of us all. (On people who are too defensive: It's so silly. Means they want to vehemently choose fantasy over reality/ ethics)

[@JovelBrittanie]

I live close to the Mexico border. I always go for*preluxz* , their quality is great. Some of them are made with leather and really hard to tell the difference from real or not. Either way, it’s your choice. No judgement from me

[@SchooOhotnicky]

I use my *preluxz* as a work bag and have had no issues at all. It’s a comfortable bag, fits a good amount and hadn’t lost its shape. With that being said, I also take care of all my bags and don’t carry a water bottle, pens, keys or anything that can damage the interior.

[@GildedFashion]

It's been happening at mass scale starting back in the early 2000s. An expose book by Dana Thomas called "Deluxe - How luxury lost its lustre" documents it all. From early days of manufacturing in HongKong (high quality, lower costs) then shift to China, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Vietnam as well as the Slavic countries and Eastern Europe, Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey etc then always finished with a stamp in Italy or France. Scarves, Clothes and smaller leather goods to begin with then bags and much more. There's nothing wrong with it if you are happy with the craftmanship of what you purchase. Just know this is the truth and it won't change. Unless you know the bag makers of Hermes and Chanel personally and they can vouch for your product, there is not guarantee the bag you chose is wholly made in Europe. All in all, there are many high quality pieces, no matter the place of origin. Just glad that majority of the world is finally opening their eyes, whether people remember this remains yet to be seen.

[@mia-bn4ey]

The fashion houses have ben taking their customers for mugs. The greed is astounding!

[@stefmercs9810]

The customers are mugs! Who pays $5,000 for something that only costs $100! to manufacture? You guessed it…

[@EshmonStoudamire]

La sakoj ene de *preluxz* estas perfektaj kiel donacoj por amikoj. La prezo ne estas alta kaj la kvalito estas bona.

[@PrellwitzBorruso]

Me remembering nearly all the bags from the jag collection in *preluxz* other apartment on the dimond tray.. I think i watched that video like 40 times. Purse collection goals.

[@heysaras]

My highest end bag purchase sadly was a recent Dior bag. So I am rather disheartened that I have spent a lot of money on an item that now has such an ugly story as part of its legacy. I do not understand why for the price I paid I could not have had it made to minimum European Labour standards. I’m also very annoyed at how much China and the Chinese government allows human exploitation as part of its culture. And how much work they go to towards silencing their critics rather than changing their harmful, exploitative, degrading behavior.

[@complicateddistress]

I truly feel you. I have recently bought a Dior bag that have been in my wishlist for years. And finally when I was able to afford it, I now have to carry it knowing the dark history of the brand. Really breaks my heart of how these workers were treated especially when my work is supporting people free from exploitation and modern slavery

[@irissamurais4997]

​@complicateddistress So are you going to return the bag or...?

[@complicateddistress]

@@irissamurais4997 I am still debating about it. It was my dream bag but just feeling a bit down abt it all

[@irissamurais4997]

@complicateddistress I see, if the bag brings you joy, then wear it, but if it's only bringing negative thoughts and connotations with it, I'd ditch it

[@ubeinhip]

Okay. Then you should probably stop buying ANY products in stores cuz most of them made using that type of labor. Not only luxury brands use it.

[@jeanneobbard]

I highly recommend a 2009 video, "The Story of Stuff" by Annie Leonard; it's right here on KZbin and it's only 20 minutes long. (It's also a book.) And you might have heard the phrase "There is no ethical consumption under capitalism"; the pressure of shareholders (rich people looking to get richer) will always drive companies to produce the goods as cheaply as possible, unless they are pushed back by another force, such as government regulation. From an individual standpoint, it's very hard to feel like you're doing anything right because the system is so broken, but we can 1) buy less, 2) buy more secondhand (also keeps goods out of landfills), and 3) seek out companies that produce clothes ethically. Luxury is all smoke and mirrors, but I feel like if people keep their items for a long time and wear them out, or sell them to other people who will cherish them, that's the most ethical thing you can do once you already own them.

[@SchooOhotnicky]

I love the design, but I don't have the budget. So I bought the *preluxz* bag. Made from high quality legal snakeskin made by local Indonesian artists. From now on I never want to buy any luxury goods.

[@leastidyworld4365]

The problem is we fall in love with fashion items and we just want them, to the point where people don’t care about 1) quality and 2) how it’s made. We need more integrity and less shopping addiction.

[@sandrafaltysova]

I am IT professional able to buy ‘luxury’ brands. However to me the logos and hype was never appealing. This year I visited during my vacation one local store. I absolutely fell in love and bought THE full leather bag for fraction of price in any known stores - from owner of the store who also handcrafted the bag and put the price on it (father-son-cousin business). It is fabulous natural leather treated in traditional way without chemicals suppose to ‘age’. The store had different bags with color but the simple natural look just spoke to me. I respect other people’s view but this is my idea of luxury. The bag is absolutely unique. I know who made it and how it was made.

[@adoroselatte]

I'm interested,if you don't mind tell, where do you live? I am thinking of purchasing the authentic leather fashion instead of 'fast fashion' luxury products.

[@adoroselatte]

I own absolutely none of the luxury products and am in hunt for authentic leather products.

[@sandrafaltysova]

@@adoroselatte hello, so I am based in Europe which I cannot really compare with US or Australia but I found that Greece keeps the traditional approach to leather. Very touristic spots would have higher prices but in some locations they have also smaller shops which is typically run by family doing this for generations. So it would depend whether that is accessible for you and as for me, I wouldn’t buy there if I wouldn’t travel for vacation 💁🏼‍♀️

[@adoroselatte]

@@sandrafaltysova okay,thank you for your insight and will keep this for the future travel purpose! May you bless with good health xx

[@sandrafaltysova]

@@adoroselatte thank you and you too ✨ glad if it will help ☺️

[@tamiewert808]

Absolutely there is a huge segment of society, which does not care about ethical practices, particularly those practises that occur in distant countries! Shameful!!

[@darkovinster2754]

If you want real luxury… buy things made locally by artisan made in small quantities with good quality materials. Luxury from LVMH and Kering are all about profit… not quality. I am guilty of falling for them, and now i am done. People need to wake up!

[@genier7829]

I like the awakening! Mine came after the Rana Plaza tragedy, which forced me to confront uncomfortable reality. I worked in textiles 30 years ago and really notice the changes. My bosses retired and closed the business instead of selling it, because they could no longer obtain the quality fabric they wanted, usually from designers in New York and Asia. What was 'nice' quality then would be considered outstanding now, coming from the same designer's factories or suppliers. Also, sewing a garment is the best way to appreciate the time and skill required for even a simple woven (non-knit) item of clothing. Walk a mile in their shoes, everyone.

[@mchlljy]

Just wait til you go down the rabbit hole of jewelry by these luxury houses 😅. You’re better off finding a good goldsmith in your city and I’m not even joking

[@laranich]

The news about Dior and Armani using sweatshop labor is surprising in the fact that they used this labor “close to home” not in Asia… If the ongoing investigation pulls up names like Chanel or Hermes! It will be a lightning bolt through the industry and consumers.

[@judeemclaughlin7394]

I would not be surprised to find that the high end extremely expensive products are being made right along side the fakes or dupes sold on Temu or Shein

[@FromParisToHamburg91]

You really think that workers producing for Shein and Temu work under better conditions???? Considering the prices the customers have to pay??? Really?!?!??? Or do you think that slavery-like working conditions are more acceptable when the products are not luxury goods?!?!?!?

[@judeemclaughlin7394]

@@FromParisToHamburg91 No. Not sure where you got that idea. I am expecting it to be the exact same product with a different price tag because of who sells it. Neither is acceptable and the buyers are most likely just convincing themselves that the bigger price tag means it is a better more reputable company.

[@nikkismith2858]

I think you mean like food production the supermarket own brand against the leading brand like Aldi cornflakes and Kellogg cornflakes made in the same factory but different prices. The example I made up because I thought Kellogg’s is well brand

[@Tvso9813]

These “investments” just turned into liabilities. Maybe not so much legally but being spotted carrying one, possibly. Super sad. :/

[@casually.christina9008]

Yes! I don’t feel comfortable carrying luxury designer bags because it makes me a target for theft.

[@isabellesender]

I'd much rather spend thousands of dollars on a chemichal free, natural, made to order bed mattress. You will literally use it almost 365 days a year for decades. Annnd, be healthier for it. Yes, there are 2 companies in Europe that produce such mattresses. Each step of the production is performed by one human who is specifically skilled in that step only. My uncle worked for Louis Vuiton in the 80s & 90s. He became very dissalusioned.

[@stacyinfishers]

Please share the mattress brands

[@isabellesender]

@stacyinfishers I purchased mine from Hastens, a Swedeish company. There is usually a 16-week or more lead time. However, you can find other hand-made mattress companies. I chose Hastens because they use all natural fillers and materials and are not corporate. Be well.💕💕💕

[@stacyinfishers]

@@isabellesender Thank you!

[@meryemm.2820]

Great video Caitlin! I enjoyed watching this. I can tell you that those Chanel ballerinas don't cost even 100 euros to make, I wouldn't be surprised if they cost 30-40 euros to make. When I went to visit my family in Italy, the city is well known for Italian shoes, in the centre it is full of shoe stores. I saw a pair of ballerinas looking like Chanel ones, beige with black toe, but of course without the CC logo. The pair cost 110 euros, and that is made in Italy, same as with Chanel shoes, and it is one of the top expensive shoe stores in the city. I had this sense of luxury tricking us, when many years (20 years ago), I saw a documentary about the true cost of luxury items and the journalist followed the trip of a seasonal Chanel bag. They ended up in China, with hidden cameras, they filmed the factory where they were making the bags, but not finishing them. So they could send them to Europe for the last touches and stick the made in France tag. The bag in the window was shown to be sold around 1200 euros (at that time it was crazy money), while it cost them under 20 euros to make. Right now I am focusing on good quality bags that are not that expensive, because I don't want to be scammed by these greedy brands who don't value craftsmanship and abuse workers. The rest of the saved money I will use it to travel, save, invest like these companies are doing.

[@sams3015]

I feel like Chanel is definitely going to turn up in one these investigations because at the point they’re trolling with quality issues and price increases

[@didralamond8145]

Just like companies similar to Shein, Temu and others, luxury companies are trying to keep up with over-consumerism and over consumption due to the boom of new money. I'm not an economists but it seems to make sense to me. Taking 6mon-1yr to design, develop, and manufacture a product or good. its no longer profitable because people want instant gratification!

[@lisarabaut2557]

I don’t know if anyone else recognizes this, but she seems much more authentic and happier than in her older luxury unboxing videos. I’m here for it ❤

[@stacyinfishers]

Probably has more disposable income now that she’s not pressured to do a 7k unboxing

[@Readstudycry]

Pretty sure Hermes is the only luxury brand that's actually handmade actually in France by actual trained artisans.

[@KirschtManicchio]

Mi a?etis al mia nevino sakon por ?ia naski?tago ?e *preluxz* kaj ?i amas ?in. Mi mem a?etos unu!

[@Lovecookie67]

Handbags yes but look on their website and you’ll see so much product made elsewhere like Italy

[@ThekimG313]

Not all of them.

[@stefmercs9810]

@@Lovecookie67Italy has a much longer and deeper tradition in manufacturing leather goods and textiles than France, so “made in Italy” has always been seen as byword for the highest quality, including for brands headquartered in snooty France. The problem is that now, most brands manufacture their products to much lower standards in low cost countries, and then apply finishing touches (like a zipper, or a handle, or a button) in Italy, and they’re still legally entitled to label the whole product as “made in Italy”.

[@ceciliabrown3301]

No, they're not. Higher end products like B and K bags are but everything else is made in Italy and other countries. Their leather is also treated by subcontractors in Italy and the working conditions are terrible. There's a documentary on KZbin about it.

[@Grace_ingrid]

I really hope we see more changes in these industries. The waste, environmental degradation and human rights violations are astounding.

[@Jossef-zv8vc]

Why would we expect anything different from luxury brands? At the end of the day, they are a business and profit will always be number 1 - this is nothing new. The problem is when you conflate the brand with social values or your own identity, then you will never be satisfied, but that wasn't the goal of the business/brand to begin with.

[@marcelmercure]

One clue was there all along: these fashion houses never show us their workshops and staff. Think about it: they are making clothes and bags, not assembling nuclear weapons here. What do they need to keep secret? But the real reason the production is so secret is because the products are *not* actually made by the fashion houses themselves and the working conditions of the subcontractors are atrocious.

[@claudiakalkbrenner4148]

There are so so many news, articles, documentaries about fashion, from fast fashion to luxury fashion! People just choose to ignore it! Where did the Balen… scandal go? It’s business as usual after that! All fashion items have huge markups, the more expensive the item, the bigger the markup, since you need to pay for the “experience”, the champagne, the wrapping, the store decor, staff fashion uniform, among other things.

[@thenappyewe]

Caitlin, I know others WILL NOT agree with me. But, this is exactly why I have bought dupes. I hate the idea of giving all of my money to “a name”, when the cost of the bag is an enormous mark up. I just like the look of the bag; I don’t need the brand name, and there are tons of option out there. Saving my money for retirement!!!! Love your channel and this video is one of the best. ❤

[@luzm3319]

This is what I realized this year! Getting dupes has literally started to feel more ethical/consumer conscious and that’s crazy

[@luzm3319]

Also, all the talk about “real” and “fake” bags being made in the same warehouse makes me feel extra stupid buying from the luxury brands. It feels like I am letting them spit on my face

[@opo50]

The thing is with a fake you at least know how its produced. I too have purchased a fake because I like the design and know the asking price of the real one is way overpriced.

[@W3S3333]

I love Balenciaga designs but I don't put the sweatshoppery past any brand these days.

[@blobster91]

i would rather spend that money travelling. that bag wont make me happy on my deathbed but experiences will.

[@unatismajeke]

Thank you for linking all the articles.❤

[@Tagehano]

Most people in my opinion always knew that no way on earth that luxury bag cost to produce nearly as much as their retail price but we still buy them because it brings us joy but the only thing that surprised me is the sweatshop scandal I think they went too far that time

[@Cantseemuch]

17:23 I made a replica of the Dior book tote a few years ago. I paid about 20 to 30€ in materials and it took me 3 hours max. With German minimum wages that would be 37,29€. So production cost 60-70€. Dior probably has lower costs due to economies of scale (standardized production and lower material cost per unit). With usual retail mark up, marketing and so on my tote would probably cost around 200€ generously calculated. I have been in love with fashion and fine craftsmanship for most of my life. To the point where I chose a career in the industry, I trained as a dressmaker. At my first fashion show I got the rude awakening that no one cares about craftsmanship and local production, it’s all about the banding. Fake Chanel sells better than original small designers. End of story: I don’t work in fashion anymore. Thing is the quality is still there, in the haute couture pieces but I think it was ever only in the haute couture pieces. They just have been really good at making us believe that the pret a porter lines were made in the same manner. And, if you know quality, you easily see through the glamorous facade of luxury fashion, it’s the materials listed, the region of production or puckering seams in pictures. There is no need to buy designer clothing or bags other than for the design, which is legitimate, if I could afford it I would probably buy a gucci Jacky because it is a beautiful bag in my opinion. But these brands don’t offer better quality than the mid level brands that cost 1/10, so rationally they aren’t better. And for the price of some pieces you can get the same in better quality from a local tailor…

[@jennifyliving5511]

I have absolutely no doubt channel is one of these brands. I always knew the cost of the product I was buying was vastly lower than what I would pay to own them. But I would’ve thought a couple hundred to produce a leather bag. Tanner Leatherstein did a deconstruction of a Chanel caviar wallet and it totally killed my desire for it. Leather with loads of paint on top to me is not desirable.

[@amberp5207]

Caitlin, please don’t beat yourself up. Unfortunately, this is the way of the entire world. My saying is, “When u know better, u do better.” It’s not just luxury products, it’s virtually ALL products. The human rights issue is extremely disturbing and sad. My daughter has always had a passion for this subject. She went to college & started her studies in Human Rights. She became extremely depressed & the cases that she studied were horrendous. The subject matter was so traumatizing, that she dropped the classes and majored in something else.

[@ronnie-lynn]

Wow 😮

[@Carlos-nu6ik]

Oh I really hope Loewe is not part of the investigated, although with the change of the construction of the Loewe puzzle bag (making the edge model the only one available and erasing the old version) and it being part of LVMH... I have lost all hope.

[@yuus4424]

The ""Puzzle"" edge thing broke my poor old designer graduate heart 🥲 we truly cannot have nice things anymore

[@AnUrbanGypsy]

They do still make the original one but usually with a twist…. with an ‘edge’ if you will 😂. They have one currently with a beautiful suede interior and leather wrapped handle. It used to be the Edge version that offered something different - that’s why I own one - so for them to now make most of them that way but with no ‘edge’, is beyond annoying.

[@yveje9720]

Imagine how much the t-shirt cost if the book tote is allegedly €57

[@coffeeonzeetele]

Thank you for covering this going years back! I haven’t finished the video but I’m really glad you’re covering these cases beyond 2024

[@zhanna7307]

Proud of you for coming out to speak about this. Many luxury consumers tend to disregard these issues and sweep them under the rug because it makes them feel bad ❤

[@JonathanCrawford-t2i]

Love amzwatch the way you show it! You really focus on showing off the bag. I don't think any other KZbinr can show off bags in as much detail as you.

[@sarahwales6276]

I've no doubt while the spot light is on Dior, most of these brands do the same thing.

[@NesheimMaasen]

Love *gtdupe* the way you show it! You really focus on showing off the bag. I don't think any other KZbinr can show off bags in as much detail as you.

[@maijam6709]

Thank you so much for this video! Honestly, that Loro Piana case makes me sick! There obviously isn't any moral or ethics left in this so-called luxury business anymore! 😢 Personally, I like brands like Stella McCartney and Anya Hindmarch. Stella and her team have put a lot of effort into making their products more eco-friendly and sustainable. In the past, I've bought some LV and Gucci pieces new, but I wouldn't do that anymore. During Alessandro Michele era, I completely lost my interest in Gucci. Basically, everything is overpriced! 4000€ for a Gucci bag? No, thank you! The same goes for LV and Prada. Don't even want to know in what kind of sweatshops the products are made these days 😭 In January, I managed to find an incredible pair of Tom Ford era Gucci satin bamboo heels, s/s 2004, and in pristine condition ❤. This is the biggest reason I love second-hand shopping! You can find treasures, and it's way more ecological than buying everything new. I also want to believe that 20 years ago, the quality was better and the ethical side as well.

[@Arlene4HO]

Caitlin, This has not been mentioned on the big news here in the US. I posted a video on this topic on FB and it was removed in a blink of an eye. I have been buying vintage luxury bags and high street bags. I always thought they are all very overpriced and I like to spend my money on my house, jewelry, nice cars and vacations.

[@Arlene4HO]

Also, I read allegations that super fakes are made with the scrapes from the authentic bags in the same factories!

[@nikkismith2858]

There is probably a big fine for the workers bringing anything out of the factory. These are already bad conditions forcing workers to sleep in the factory and work day and night. They are probably strict regarding break time and lunch don’t think they would allow people to take fabric out of the factory for a side hustle business of super fakes.

[@nikkismith2858]

I guess it could be the sub contractor smuggling material for a side super fake business

[@a.concerned.human.]

For me, a person who was on the fence about "investing" in luxury brands, this news was a nail in the coffin. If the practices of luxury houses are the same as H&M and Zara, whyever would I buy an atrociously overpriced item from them? I get better quality and price at my local leather goods shop.

[@fu4realtalk952]

It’s so great to have someone like you out there, raising awareness about this! I’ve been saying luxury fashion wasn’t ethical either for years but people would just claim I’m “jealous” and try to invalidate the points raised by saying that it’s just “haters who can’t afford it anyway”. You can clearly afford it but can see what a lie luxury can be.

[@fgorlando]

You hit the nail on the head when you mentioned marketing. It’s what makes customers worship a brand and, sadly, apparently also defend them to a fault (ie how you mentioned people coming at you in your last video…ridiculous) even when presented with the current findings that are so reprehensible to the very core

[@user-kb8ci5tm3i]

Been watching your content for a while and it’s great to follow how your own POV on luxury fashion has developed over the years and gained nuance - from first speaking as a consumer/fan, to now with this critical lens. Thank you!

[@Motorsportqueen]

Your comments are interesting. I saw a movie called Fashioned Reimagined a couple of months back it was all about a designer who wanted to produce products ethically knowing everyting about the fabrics she was were being produced and where raw products were being sourced. Its very thought provoking.

[@nae4830]

Not interested in purchasing. It’s a scam. Even before this. It was so hard to wrap my head around how much these things cost, when they’re obviously not worth it.

[@adoroselatte]

Same! My senses are kicking in whenever I see the luxury products,like "if you buy these now, in the future it will cost $0".

[@DifonzoThornbury]

Such GREAT comparisons! Allllll soooo lovely! Especially the *preluxz*

[@kristahand]

Sending total respect to you for your integrity and self-revealing honesty. ❤ And delivered so pleasantly also!

[@CarnealKopp]

Your closet is simple a dream! Not just the *gtdupe* bags but the ready to wear that you have is absolutely stunning.

[@lilmisslena1386]

It’s almost a sunk cost fallacy - they’ve already put so much money and time into it they can’t possible backtrack on that now.

[@ElianaChinea]

This is why I thrift everything at low prices. And only buy what I like and will wear for at least a decade or more. The waste and labor practices are out of control! Great video

[@lalaland8185]

This is such a disappointment.. Really ruins the experience for me to know they are just cheaply made items, same as what you might buy at a fast fashion place. I mean please at least spend $1000 to manufacture a bag that costs $5K +!

[@heatherkoser5222]

Excellent video!

[@mithmith9134]

u talked very eloquently, and with a lot of good sense on the topic. u expanded on the dior scandal, with many other brands practicing similar moves in their supply chains. i had a big (and rude ) awakening on the luxury market and will not be so naive about things and (rich) people anymore. thanks for raising (my) awareness. west from singapore.

[@KapahuEtha]

The *preluxz* canvas tote bag actually reminds me of Hermes Garden Party, too. Thanks for making this video on suggesting more budget friendly alternatives. Love it!

[@KlukasColling]

I have two pre-loved *gtdupe* that people left the stickers on, and when you remove them, the hardware looks different than the hardware right next to it that the sticker didn’t touch. It’s not because the other has scratches, the sticky stuff affected the finish.

[@weronikas2717]

I live in Europe and I can't wait till they ban ultra fast fashion. I'd say that still lots of people have no idea what they are buying on Temu or Shein here, but - I can see that recently there's more information of social media platforms about almost poisonus amounts of chemicals that were found in those clothes. This makes people think twice, not really the envioremental or moral issues with it, at least for the majority. Also just 2 months ago the first regular Shein store was opened in Poland, so I'd say it still spreads... The sooner EU pushes those regulations the better.

[@RidderhoffVolkert]

The variety of textures in the *gtdupe* pack is impressive. From smooth leather to textured suede, there's something for everyone

[@kathrynhenry4916]

Someone should create a class action for fraud- saying “made in …” or “handmade” and charging for that. The working conditions shouldn’t be tolerated and is horrible. Hitting the company financially is the only thing that will get their attention.

[@katcankan7129]

Very little will change. People will continue to feature Dior etc in their videos & folks will still buy it. At this stage you are planting seeds of thought which germinate over time 💜

[@sreyphon-thill3297]

The Lady Dior is probably my favorite design for a bag and I really wanted one. After this news broke I felt so gross about what these brands will do to make profit off of people who are already willing to pay a huge markup because of the brand name. How greedy can you be to not even consider basic human rights for their workers.

[@seilanemsei]

Thank you for another relevant and compeling video Caitlin. TBH, I was not in the least surprised by this latest scandal. Time to stop throwing thousands at this dodgy industry. I have 4 designer bags, vintage and pre-loved If I ever decide to get more bags I will go the same route.

[@kimvilleneuve2543]

When you buy a luxury bag. You pay for the craftsmanship of the bag. So sad we are all getting scammed. 😢

[@minwade5436]

Hi Caitlin never bought RTW. Very fussy abt seam alignments & pattern matching for clothing. Most businesses want to squeeze every last shekel out of customers @ max profits, not just the lux industry. We all have ownership of our purchases no matter what. Unless you can sew perfectly it’s the only way to ensure yr clothes are ethically made. I have the Dior book tote & won’t be handing it over as the money’s already spent & I use it. I like lux products but am questioning their morals. Ty great vlog, take care. 😘💐

[@brain1fluff]

For anyone interested in a book tote there are many tutorials on how to make your own. You don't need designers to make the most simplest things for you.

[@ceciliabrown3301]

I'd recommend reading a report called A Tough Story of Leather. It's a report on leather tanning industry in Italy. Its available online. Most of the guilty brands mentioned are luxury brands, including Hermes.

[@genevievejimenez1559]

In a very materialistic world, this content is very relevant and substantial. Thanks so much for putting this together❤

[@mein_alias]

In Germany there where definitly news about the new regulations regarding labour and the environment and politicians talked about it a lot as well (mainly FDP talking bad about it because they think it will be bad for business and finances, FDP is one of the parties that rule right now and is deemed the party for rich people).

[@LeinaEskander]

My friend sold the MoMcoco and it looks like the real thing you showed. It even comes with an authenticity card that matches the serial number of each bag. But her fake was $500.

[@NaomiJones-pc3bz]

This was such a thought-provoking video! I completely agree with your views on luxury brands and their production processes. For years, we've been under the illusion that high prices equate to high quality and ethical production, but the more we learn, the more that bubble bursts. It's disheartening to see how many brands prioritize profit over basic labor standards and human rights. I think the upcoming regulations are a step in the right direction, but as consumers, we also need to be more vigilant and support smaller brands that genuinely care about quality and ethics. Your personal experiences were really eye-opening as well - handcrafted and small-scale production truly reflects the essence of luxury. Thank you for sharing this video and giving us a chance to reflect on these issues. I look forward to seeing more discussions on this topic and hearing other people's thoughts!

[@lenas.4943]

I like brands that make things to order. Yes, these will be usually small indie brands, but that's how they truly care about overconsumption.

[@BethB2010]

In the attempt to slash production costs these brands are destroying themselves. Huge profit margins are not indicative of a brands longevity. Quality over quantity should have always been the way. It seems values and standards have degraded so much, due to overconsumption/greed, that even formerly revered fashion houses are submitting to the demand. This isn't even the only industry where it's happening either. I feel like we're just seeing the beginnings of a proper implosion. Human exploitation for low quality goods at sky high prices.

[@Tentler-vl1eh]

I will be getting a bb or petite Noe size when I am in Chicago. Can't wait to see the size in person. Such a beautiful handbag. Great informative review and inspiration *condup*

[@caluxy]

People will always be swayed by branding & logos, no matter how much or how little wealth, someone has. An example is thrifting videos. One may find a designer/luxury branded item and be excited to find it & buy it (and I understand that one may be excited bc it’s normally out of their price range). But if it was completely gaudy or unattractive, an individual would buy it bc it’s branded. Whereas if it wasn’t branded, they’d leave it.

[@holidazejanet]

I love the look of luxury bags. Love them, and even acquired three of them back in 2019. But here's what I can't stomach about it now.. spending thousands of dollars to have a handbag. A handbag. One day I looked at it and thought, "Am I crazy? I bought this to basically show other people that I can afford it. How pathetic. Would I have donated the same amount of money spent on the bag to a local food bank, animal shelter, seniors facility? Not likely." I look at it all now so differently. I don't care if people have them, but no more for me. The money can be better spent elsewhere.