The RISE of Designer Dupes & their impact on Luxury Fashion...

Yep, looks like I had to talk about it eventually, the Walmart Birkin took the internet by storm when people started unboxing and reviewing their $80 versions of an $11,000 Hermès Birkin bag. This brings us to a wider conversation about dupes in general, so I wanted to talk about the reasons why people buy designer dupes, why they've become so popular and their effects on luxury fashion in general...ENJOY!
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[@karik2485]

I’ve bought dupes as a trial run to see if I like the bag before I spend thousands on the real thing. I’ve been very surprised at how many bags I don’t like the functionality of! Spent a couple hundred, saved myself thousands!

[@neffyg35]

Same. I got a dupe birkin from Amazon way before the Walmart birkin and the bag is the most annoying bag I have ever used. It's heavy, fussy, and not as cute as I thought lol

[@jessicadawson2353]

Same for me too. I’m wearing my dupe Cartier bracelet right now because I didn’t know if I’d like to wear a bracelet I don’t take off.

[@Bonnie-h2j]

I get a real beautiful handbag. I don’t wanna dude there’s plenty of nice one you get from Amazon and other places as long as I keep dress, nice and clean and appearance, but also be kind to others gratitude

[@flonotflow]

This 100%. I've saved myself a lot of money by going with a dupe just for this reason. Not every design is practical for everyone.

[@francescathegreat1]

I felt the Chanel card case was overrated. I bought the dupe. Confirmed. Shopping for another designer brand for a card holder.

[@bongojones67]

My mum bought a Loewe dupe in a dept store,, but she's not a luxury girlie and didn't know until I told her, she just liked the bag, so that customer exists as well

[@Luvbeexo]

Honestly, dupes & fakes have been a thing for decades. The big brands are going to be ok regardless. Where I have a problem is the fakes being sold as real for the same extortionate prices.

[@katemiller7874]

Exactly. New York 1986 in Chinatown in a basement.

[@cetucci]

Honestly, I’d buy the fake Birkin not because of the price of the original, but as a protest against Hermès’ ridiculous system. The way they "force" people to buy other stuff with unclear spending rules just to "qualify" for a Birkin is absurd. It's not about exclusivity anymore; it’s about manipulation. No thanks!

[@VauveAnais]

Agreed, that and some dupes actually look better, lol.

[@SMR218]

If one is so against the brand, why wear something that pretends to be that brand? Does not make sense to me.

[@VauveAnais]

@SMR218 For me, I could care less about the brand. Years back, I would always get bags like that one because I like the design and structure. I didn't know the real/original style was a Birkin until I saw it on a TV show. I'm just learning about a lot of brands, and I'm feel good about being a thrifter/frugal, lol. For some, it's a status symbol, and for others, it's actually for the style or love of the item.

[@phantomthread4385]

There was an Al Jazeera report on how many dodgy factories located in Italy now producing items for luxury brands. And the dupes have been on Amazon and still are. Loro piana also haven't paid their workers adequately in south america. People are getting fed up with the disingenuous companies profiteering so much and hiking up prices. Im expectjng more shocks and cover ups exposed.

[@katemiller7874]

Factory workers aren’t paid well. Never have been for the work they do. Not new boo boo

[@4SlowFashion]

@@katemiller7874 these are Vicuña wool farmers that rely solely on loro piana as a customer to supply their village with work who were just. not. paid. and the Vicuña coats sold for 9k each. this isn't factory workers making pennies this is destroying a village with malpractice

[@Brendalovesdior]

It's the same as 2004/2005ish where people were copying the LV pochette and the balenciaga motorcycle. So many stores had dupes. So many people bought them, but it never decreased the popularity or the real thing. Feels the same to me at the moment 😊

[@CassieThorpe]

You are spot on, the real thing is still so coveted!

[@gaiamorgosi7181]

Good Wednesday, it’s a market that has captured my interest, because at this point, when experts cannot tell every single authentic piece from the copy, it’s starting to feel like the fake ones are becoming the “more luxurious” ones, which is an inception moment😅. There is a book, “Superfake” that talks about the industry, and there’s a huge variety of documentaries about the topic, and it’s quite a fascinating (yet non-ethical) world, honestly.

[@merkitten953]

There was a time when i thought being able to buy a $4000 bag meant something about me, and conversely, that buying a dupe said something about me as well. So i didnt buy dupes, ever, i got 1 or 2 luxury bags a year if i could afford it. However i just think differently now. All it means now to buy one is you have the money to buy one - it sYs nothing about my style, worth as a person, or whether im cool or not. With the advance of superfakes its haed for me to justify buying real. I have suppliers that can get me bags IDENTICAL to auth. Not th $40 bags you buy off the street, these bags are amazingly made, hold up over time (my oldest are 10 yrs old), have the same exact interior, stitching, stamps ect, except instead of costing between $1800- 10k, they cost between $100 - $500 bucks. I high end dupe Birkin can run a bit higher, like $800-$1k. But its like if i can spend 3 k and get one bag thats real, or spend 2k & get between 4 and 6 different designer bags ive been lusting after - well, you do the math. I have auth LV, Balencia and Dior, and i have fux Dior, Gucci, LV, Fendi, ect. I have no regrets. They do clothes and shoes as well, and again, if i can buy a cute lil Celine sweater and skirt combo for 130 bucks total thats just like the real thing bc its not hard to make, its not some special material, then why would i spend 1200 for it or whatever it would be auth? Im gonna spemd 1200 bucks on a sweatshirt i might drip pasta sauce on? No thanks 😂 Dont get me wrong, auth is still special. If my bf gifted me an auth id be over the moon. But that sense that i HAVE to have auth, that its important or says something about me? I havent felt like that in years, and i think more and more people feel the same.

[@CassieThorpe]

This is really interesting and thanks for sharing your thought process!

[@Nicole.Nicole.Nicole]

Can you give me the name of your suppliers? I’m asking for a friend 😅

[@4SlowFashion]

i'd love the scoop on Dior i really want a ladydior

[@MeItsMeLol]

I’m wondering why you need 4-6 new handbags every year if your dupes are so high quality? I assume it’s because the dupes look really bad after a year or two. But regardless, if you buy 4-6 new bags every year for merely four years you will 16-24 handbags, which certainly is plenty if not more than enough.

[@Greens_and_Blues]

@@MeItsMeLol for me, I used to buy ToNS of super fakes just because I could 😂 I took my yearly budget for handbags and rolled it over to fakes because it was fun to have all the items you could only dream of before. Super fakes are made and hold up just as well, if not better than authentic pieces. Trust me. I know 😉

[@DianeShugart]

In a way dupes consolidate not only our fascination with luxury fashion but how they shape taste by providing a way for a broader consumer base to adopt that look. It's a super accelerated version of the process described in the cerulean sweater scene in "The Devil Wears Prada."

[@LooksByNaheemah]

Luxury brands have been duping each other for years. If people don’t have an issue with that, I don’t see why they would have an issue with this especially since they slightly changed/improved the design (adding a crossbody strap), it’s made of real leather, & it doesn’t use the Hermes logo.

[@myfashionkillz]

Brands increase prices and push "entry-level" products farther away from the masses. Social media shows us people with shelves full of designer bags as the new normal. Fashion is dictated by micro trends that last a few months rather than a few years. Of course, dupes are popular. We should let people enjoy things at a price point that works for them. I buy what I like, within my budget, and go about my day. Off the internet, people don't care that much.

[@Kagehime-4]

what I have with all those quiet luxury dupes in particular is that it feels like they're missing the point. Really rich people don't need to signal their wealth so they forgo the logo and choose the high quality materials and now loro piano is sellin logo-caps and the gorgeos materials get swapped for polyester

[@karmicdestiny8207]

I’m not spending 10k-20k on a bag period, I don’t care if a human made it, a robot or a kangaroo, it’s a bag that holds my crap. It’s not that serious people 🙄🙄🙄☀️

[@karmicdestiny8207]

You shouldn’t value yourself based on material items, if you do that , spend money on a therapist instead. It means nothing, and we are not here to care about what someone thinks ~ ridiculous my dupes mean , I’m smart , frugal , don’t give 2 effs, that’s what it means ~

[@growingandcooking7278]

My approach to bags is incredibly simple. If I think it’s stylish, fits my personality, and is cool af, I buy it. Same thing with clothes. I have a very curated sense of style, so logos or prestige aren’t what draws me to fashion. I’ve spent $0.75 on a bag. I’ve spent $7500 on a bag. My favorite bag in the world that I’ll probably be buried with cost $400. As long as it’s something I’m gonna use regularly and I have the money for it, imma buy it. 😂 I wish we would get back to the ORIGINAL purpose of fashion: individuality and creativity. It just shouldn’t matter how much money you have. If you’re intentional about curating your own style that makes you happy, that’s all you need! ✨

[@sandrahintz2617]

I have designer bags but buy them to use everyday. Quality is my main priority to last for years. I started back in the 1980s with LV and Gucci ❤ them and still have them.

[@kiranv4605]

Cassie I’ve been watching for a while & you’re absolutely my fave KZbinr. You have such good energy & your love for TBE’s has kicked off for me too 😂. Thankyou for your consistency & informative videos ❤❤❤❤

[@CassieThorpe]

Aahhhh you’ve brought a huge smile to my face!! Thank you so so much for enjoying this videos and I’m glad you’re on the TBE train with me 😂💖

[@heysaras]

I think the final straw, for some of us, was the Dior subcontractor scandal in Italy. If we can no longer say that the makers of luxury goods are being treated humanely and working safely in their factories then there’s very little to differentiate the grossly priced authentic good from a dupe or counterfeit item. In China, I believe a lot of these brands don’t have trademarks or patents from the government on design elements. so it’s less legally problematic for them to produce them in that country. The US often grants excessive patents and trademarks in my opinion. According to super Jacob, the Birkin shape DOES have protection in the US and that could be why Walmart pulled the item.

[@shoujojidai]

This video is not a waste of time!!! Appreciate the yapping 😂

[@CassieThorpe]

Why thank you!!

[@lindap7719]

😂

[@alexiadrummond8981]

Just so nice to hear from you, even if others have covered the topic before. Your approach is always refreshing. Love that sweater!

[@rhondabeard7012]

I bought the Coach Cassie before I purchased my Pouchette Metis. I love them both. I also love my Marc Jacobs tote so much that I never purchased the On the go tote. I found out that I love buying vintage bags as well😊

[@BartonEnglish1]

Full disclosure, I don’t have a designer bag for the same reason I don’t have a tattoo…the commitment is hard, and I know I’ll get tired of any design eventually. I think “look for less” is the most appropriate lingo that dupe pushers use. To be perfectly honest, some of us are painfully fickle about the things we like, we change our minds so often! Dupes allow people to create a look for a season or phase and then move on to the next without shedding a tear when it falls apart or their kid takes a sharpie to it. And then you get to side step the whole resale market which is just as fickle for trendier bags.

[@SMR218]

There are so many mid range luxe bags that are not fake or dupes, real leather, good quality. Why buy a fake of a bag you can’t afford? They usually will fall apart soon, smell bad and it won’t be the same thing ever. Save your hundreds and get a good De Mellier, Ateliers Auguste, strathmore, or Cuyana. Even Coach, Tory Burch, Etc have really good ones that are authentic bags and don’t break the bank

[@chanelsimone6072]

I also think it speak to the fact that no human wants to be left out. Or wants to simply not be able to enjoy something because they can’t afford it. Life’s short, I also think at a psychological level people want to feel something or have an idea of how the other half may live as they may go their whole lives working hard and their income i.e their monetary value in this world never amounting to enough to enjoy said thing without sacrificing needs. I remember reading this book as a child about this woman who wanted one night away from her life as a maid to this wealthy family to just be fabulous and someone gave her a faux pearl necklace to wear to this ball that she thought was real. The woman spends an evening essentially cosplaying wealthy and had the time of her life. She accidentally broke the necklace and felt so bad about it until the lady told her it was faux pearls. She does eventually see the cracks in those ppls lives (it wasn’t perfect even with money) but the way they described her feeling as she danced among them stuck with me until adulthood. It’s the thrill some are chasing. In many ways regardless of what we spend. We all chase it in someway.

[@LuxDivas]

I think the luxury brands did this to themselves by continually increasing prices to levels unseen before. Makes aspirational shoppers feel those items are unattainable so they buy the dupe. Then they realize that they feel okay with the dupe because their bank accounts reflect the savings. And we are in a declining economic market as well. Maybe if sales keep dropping in 2025 these brands will adjust their pricing! I always would buy several items every season and last year I didn’t. I was so selective.

[@merkitten953]

@@LuxDivas this too, i totally agree. When the Balenciaga moto bag was all the rage i loved it, and i had multiple colors, bc the city style was only 1200 bucks. Expensive, but doable. Now it seems like everything starts at 2500 and some styles are like 4k... its just too much. Even if i have it its too much, you know? It seems greedy.

[@DBrooks-i3w]

I don’t purchase dupes but I understand the rationale for doing so! Purchasing a dupe to get a feel for the bag and if it meets your lifestyle makes sense. I think the bag being at Walmart somehow legitimized the dupe culture and that’s why it became a problem for Walmart and led to the 3rd party vendor shutting down the sale of the item! Bottom line people purchasing that dupes is not impacting Hermes IMO. People are tired of the games with brands and want to feel like they’re sticking it to the brand in some way! Thanks for adding to the conversation! 😊❤

[@j.t2310]

Great discussion Cassie. I find it interesting that when companies are criticized for manufacturing something at example $54 , but the cost to ship it to store to warehouses internationally, market it, and employ all those people to sell etc deliver to customer, Cost of the store. That is never tallied. So if the purse cost $54 was that the wholesale. Maybe they also had to make 40,000 of them to make an agreement with the factory, too, so that is a high price up front for the maker. This is math that puts things in perspective. Luxury goods are hand made as well. Also they never talk about how much $54 is in the country of manufacturing. So, I would say it's a more complex thing and likely not as unfair as people make it out to be. These manufacturing locations also provide employment to people often in very difficult countries. Who else is willing to deal with all the challenges that also brings. And language barriers. So. I think luxurybis worth it.

[@fluentasperity]

😂😂 I’m confusing myself as well lol The only fake I would consider buying is a classic flap. Chanel has ridiculed themselves with their price increases, their quality is a mess and I am totally not sorry for them. So you made a very good point with the value. I wouldn’t buy fakes of the brands I like.

[@heysaras]

That’s an interesting point. Like if I respect the brand, am I less likely to want a fake?

[@Luvbeexo]

I’m definitely bias because I love a good dupe, and review them on my channel. Dupes give me that immediate dopamine hit that fades away after a couple of months 😅. I’d never recklessly buy an authentic bag because I’d get bored...ESPECIALLY with the more trendy / overhyped bags.

[@Starlight-Waters]

What’s up Cassie Girl, you’re rockin’ it. 😎 Lots of Love and luxury vibes, Joanna from New York ❤

[@dho828]

Even when people have already discussed a topic (especially in regards to Reps/dupes) it's always nice to get your insight into these topics. For the years I have been watching your videos, you never disappoint 👐👐

[@CassieThorpe]

Thank you so much 😭💖

[@dho828]

Absolutely. Funny enough Cass, a dupe was how I found your channel a few years ago.. Remember Rihanna and Dior had a sunglasses collaboration that was sold out and not on any resale sites. I did find a dupe of it on Aliexpress and I wasn't sure the style would have worked for me or not. Checking youtube for reference how the glasses looked on other people was how I found your Channel and was hooked since. I think Dupes can be an ethical way for someone to access a similar version of a product that is no longer in production or on the second hand Market, but I don't think they will affect the Brands themselves much as at the end of the day, people are always keeping an eye out for the next best releases, and are always on their seat about what trend the Fashion houses will bring forward.

[@jessicadawson2353]

Have you seen the videos from people who claim the Wirkins are made in the same factories in China where the Birkins are made? “Tell me you know nothing about Hermes without telling me you know nothing about Hermes.”

[@Nicole.Nicole.Nicole]

😂

[@YingjunRuan-hd6em]

Made in China in most cases are better than elsewhere around the world. China is the future. China is the factory of the world. The West sanction China because they can not compete with China. Two hundred years ago, the West attacked and invaded China because the West could not compete with China. It is happening all over again. This time China will not be defeated. The West is falling apart.

[@Rachel26172]

Amazing video per usual. Very relevant topic for today's society. Loved your thoughts ❤

[@CassieThorpe]

Thank you so much!!! 🫶💖

[@Robbie_LeMeow]

Thank you Cassie for a well thought out, well spoken video. You managed to discuss this without coming off as a bag snob. Dupes are here to stay, and the heritage brands are not going to suffer because of Walmart. Not everyone has 10K to drop on a double flap, but that doesn't mean a consumer of less means doesn't have taste and a affinity for style. Everyone wants to looks good no matter what. Dupes are one thing, conterfeit...is something else. Leave that to the Dept. of Homeland Security. ❤

[@vintageesmerelda8822]

An issue I have is that every year, brands increase their prices but the quality is going downhill. You now have mid-tier brands putting out quality items you’d expect from higher end brands at the fraction of the cost.

[@lagniappe1914]

I felt so bad about accidentally buying a Tod's fake (didn't know the brand) in Beijing back in 2007 that I promised I would buy a real one when I had the money & found one I loved. I am anti-fakes; straight up copying is stealing a design. Dupes with their own stylistic interpretation and not exact copies are a different matter.

[@AisforAwesomeAsh]

Before I got into luxury fashion, I was buying dupes and had nooooooo idea!! I just saw a cute bag and bought it 😂😂😂

[@t.jackson1039]

Hey! Great video. I am also confused about the hype for Baccarat Rouge 540. I don't like it one bit. I ran across some chatter on the internet, and some people were suggesting that some brands are the ones behind the dupes. Which was very interesting. Perhaps to create chatter and buzz.

[@624LC]

A few years ago, I bought some kelly and birkin dupes from Anifeel and Cherish Kiss under Amazon. I still have a few and actually love them. Anifeel and Cherish Kiss no longer can sell these dupes on amazon - I think it was because they were really good. I also have vintage bags from the 60's and 70's that are similar in style to a Kelly bag. I still use them. All this to say, I may someday buy a birkin bag, but I am okay with what I have now. 🤷‍♀

[@latifasj]

there’s the issue of after service as well. my hermes purchases have gone to spa and returned in a better condition than when i bought them!

[@HereIGoAJen]

Good morning Cassie! I think it’s actually a good idea to buy a style as a “ style test drive” . I wish I would have done that for a few bags that I’ve spent way too much money on and now sit in my closet as “closet art”

[@gisellemartinez5825]

I can’t get on board with any kind of counterfeit/bootleg versions of products masquerading as the real thing, but I can appreciate affordable brands providing an option that is their take on a popular luxury style. However, it shouldn’t be a detail-for-detail copy; there’s no pride in that. While I enjoy the idea of luxury bags/shoes, I have a hard time parting with my cash for them, because here’s the thing: although there may be a HUGE difference between a $17k Birkin and the $80 Wirkin, that difference in quality is significantly smaller when you’re willing to pay an extra $100+ for a mid tier premium bag. I can’t in good conscience spend thousands knowing the bag cost $100 to make. As a product developer in the beauty space, I can say the same is true; you’d be surprised how many brands of varying price tiers all share the same exact manufacturer and even formulas, but ppl scoff at one brand vs another. 😂

[@elynangel]

It’s always entertaining to hear you talk about more or less interesting aspects of fashion 😁

[@madeleinbronner3943]

RIP all the Birkins that got burned at the Palaside fires. After all, its just material stuff

[@CarolSummer]

Yaaaay, I have something to put on in the background whilst de mounting our Christmas trees! 🎉

[@CassieThorpe]

Aahhhh I was so sad to take mine down!

[@tobaccoffee]

14:17 this point doesn't stand when you see how amazing dupes for BV's intrecciato bags are. Even Dragon Diffusion bags are being "duped" and they're sooo good because honestly Chinese workers are some of the most skilled in the world

[@kaylheecarroll3186]

Good morning queen Cassie and I knew you were going to talk about dupes especially the "Wirkin"😊❤

[@CassieThorpe]

Hahaha I just wanted to make sure that u had more to talk about than just that bag 🙈

[@kaylheecarroll3186]

@CassieThorpe 😆, never love talking and shopping 🛍 for bags 😁💙💚!!

[@ingadelacruz6447]

To be honest, I am not really bothered too much by dupes or even fakes, as long as you don’t try to pass them as the real thing. I feel like trying to pass it for the real thing makes this a bit deeper than just wanting something new and something you like. It feels like a much deeper issue with people in general feeling like they are not worthy “unless” they have X. And I feel like NOONE should feel like a ANYTHING should equate to self worth. That makes me very sad for where we’re heading in all of this. 😢

[@cindystovall2260]

Its very concerning to see Dior being accused of such horrible things. I loved Dior but to see the conditions that they have for their employees and to actually see that these beautiful bags are created in such terrible environments, they look no differently to me now than the super fakes!!

[@YingjunRuan-hd6em]

What's wrong with the employee's conditions? Don't be fooled. No one is forcing the employees to work that way. They work that way because they want to. They slept at the factory is probably because it is cheaper. Asians are tough people and that's why they are successful.

[@777DVB]

Very interesting info, Girl where is your Golden Globes fashion reaction video at?

[@4SlowFashion]

i got a versace bag and it felt worse than a dupe and i was mortified off the brand entirely. i've made my own drafted leather kelly for $250. and ive bought ysl and other bags. The best piece of the Puzzle bag (not edge) was that it was too difficult to dupe for years and i just missed my window of those being worth it.

[@MeItsMeLol]

I don’t know any details of your bag, but I’m pretty sure Versace makes handbags that go directly outlet stores, which are probably lesser quality. I don’t know what the quality of their high end line is like but hopefully it’s better than the bags at Off5th.

[@africocoalux722]

It’s definitely gonna be interesting in what will be the newest luxury trendy item that is a signifier of the ultra wealthy

[@katemiller7874]

Cars and homes have always been their calling card

[@YingjunRuan-hd6em]

Having a brain is the ultimate luxury.

[@YingjunRuan-hd6em]

No amount of money can buy intelligence or common sense.

[@gisy1115]

Excellent points Cassie, I don’t judge the reason behind people getting dupes at all, however it will have an effect on how people see the brands. Whether that means people will not like to wear their bags because they don’t want others to think they’re wearing dupes or fakes. The exclusivity aspect is not longer there if we can get it from Walmart. We’ve seen the downfall of LV due to the amount of dupes and fakes. Also the beginner influencer or want to be influencers cannot afford a birkin and they want to appear as they have one to influence the masses. I think we are spiraling out of control towards the new generation where luxury is an illusion. Just my thoughts

[@MissJIF]

100+ years ago people bought jewelry dupes. Still do. Even the wealthy would have copies made of their more precious pieces for wearing everyday or in "less safe" circumstances or travel. Still may do? I try to find some goods that replicate the quality and feel of the luxury brands, not fakes or exact dupes. Don't want to be targeted if someone thinks I carry anything worth stealing! Found a couple bag makers that use epi leather from Italy, the quality seems equal to LV. There are also bag makers that source leather allegedly from the same sources as Hermès. I have what looks like a keepall in what seems to be Clemence (so yummy!) and a giant "Kelly" in epi-- odd crossovers that the luxury brands never made but should have. They're very well made and retailed only around $400, $800 (I don't pay retail if avoidable lol). I can haul these about shopping or on a commute or road trip, sit in a diner, stay in a random hotel etc unbothered. If I'm not doing 5-star activities I don't like to look too posh for the room:)

[@kizzle45shizzle]

Hi Cassie your top is fabulous!!!

[@lisamersereau]

I have purchased a couple of dupes when I was younger. I found I didn't use them much, because I knew they were dupes. However, I have considered a high quality dupe Birkin because I will likely never be "offered" a real one. It's such BS that this sysis in place to where even people who can afford a Birkin (but can't afford to purchase all the stuff needed to be offered one) cannot walk into a store and buy a Birkin! I almost hope Hermes loses the lawsuit.

[@DipbyDipmaker]

I feel like the dupes exist for costumers, who would never be able to afford the real thing, yet you still want to look good. The Wirkin is something gone viral, however stores like Zara and H&M have been doing it shamelessly for ever. I doubt this hurts the luxury industry, any more than before as the costumers are just on a different budget, and that is completely normal and fine. However… buying fake on the street, what is also highly illegal all around the world, I find just sad… you are not fooling anyone, and you contribute to the problem… Anyways cool video as always! And loving this cream cardigan!

[@CassieThorpe]

Great thoughts here and thank you! I always forget about this jumper but it’s a good one! 😂💖

[@MrsBrittanyGold]

I’ve always wanted a Chanel flap for years but with the quality being worse AND the price almost double - I’ll buy pre-loved or pass.

[@briredrose]

If it’s made out of leather like the actual Birkin, I’m cool with it. Fashion sustainability, like whatever the price point is.. it’s gonna last a long time

[@wewe499]

You can still buy mini Kely on the Walmart webside in Canada:-) For 150 Cad . It says that it's "second generation MINI bag" whatever it means🙂

[@MissJIF]

I mean the Hermès versions. No idea if they duped the original Mini Kelly or how close the new dupe is to the real Mini Kelly

[@Beebee192-j7i]

I usually buy dupes (not fakes) if I don't like the company but like a particular bag. I find more and more luxe brands are becoming more disrespectful towards customers, why should I support them?

[@boobabyboo2]

I don’t personally have an opinion on dupes or fakes as I’m not going inside of anybody’s purse and asking for a serial number. 😅 and then it’s gotten to the point where the designers can’t even tell. Then you have brands like Chanel who said they’re no longer authenticating their older bags; I think the economy is changing ESPECIALLY now and with a lot of those rich/middle class people in LA going through what they’re going through right now not to mention all the other parts of the world, I think people are starting to wake up and then there are brands like Chanel where a lot of times you can get better quality dupes From the same manufacturer. I really just think it’s more about people actually realizing what the hell is really going on lol

[@incognitobliss5065]

Thanks for perspective on this issue and including links to articles regarding the dupes. I do not like the design of the Birkin, so have no plans to buy, the real, a dupe, or a fake. If the market is saturated with the Wirkin, then people carrying the authentic bag would experience less chances of getting mugged, homes burglarized, or bags stolen from unexpected places, like the counter of a department store. Could this be a win-win situation?

[@NY-qk4cm]

Dupes (similar vibes) are okay in my book. When i didn't know about fashion I would buy things from my local mall and I just didn't know the reference (insert Miranda Priestly's read about Andy's cerulean sweater) . Now i know the reference. As long as it's not a replica, I'm good.

[@CassieThorpe]

Good point!!

[@anakabakchi6023]

Loved the video! It is exactly what I think: there is no conclusion really. I do not like dupes, even if they are done by Prada.

[@CassieThorpe]

THIS 🫶🫶

[@sams3015]

I think if it wasn’t wallmart it would’ve never got the attention. Like the way in the UK a John Lewis own brand dupe isn’t going to get the same attention as a Tesco F&M one

[@tobaccoffee]

No-brand dupes made of quality leather, for non-birkin "IYKYK" Hermes styles are the shit. I've been obsessed with them lately. I have the Picotin, So kelly, and Depeches. Carrying them feels acceptable in this god-forsaken economy.

[@inibieny]

The make-up you're wearing in this video looks exceptionally beautiful on you, Cassie! 😍

[@thatguy.7608]

The irony is everyone talks about knockoff makers having these horrible working conditions. But no one wants to talk about your favorite luxury brands using the same workshops. I really just feel like if the item no matter the price point. If it makes you feel good 😌 then rock 🤘🏾 it babes!!

[@altacostura3512]

I think the difference is a) quality (when the luxury item is actually lux) which can be felt, touched, and smelled and, as you said, durability (hopefully). Just as important, the second element, and the bottom line, is the prestige and psychological, simple *feeling* of the brand, the flex and, as you have mentioned in other videos, the "fantasy" of it all. THAT cannot be replicated and that's what hooks so many people.

[@CassieThorpe]

I love how you put it!! 💖💖💖

[@jnjenki]

I don’t love a lot of things about dupes, but I do try before I buy sometimes. The biggest problem I have with dupe culture is when fast fashion brands dupe small businesses. That’s just evil.

[@SugarplumFlowers]

I see so many dupes of those Hermes sandals...but I suppose the bags have a lot more prestige for them and their clientele so its getting the spotlight....

[@CassieThorpe]

There’s so many dupes of the Orans!!

[@EvelynM-vlogs]

Dupes have been happening big time in interior design for decades and no one has a problem with it, it has already long become "the norm" to not buy original brand names in any lighting, furniture, decor, etc designs unless you are the super wealthy. I'm surprised its taken this long to hit the luxury clothing market.

[@debbieswann5721]

If people would only understand why the fakes are bad. We have two friends that are patent attorneys and they can definitely tell you how bad it is. If you have a company making something good and copied how would you feel? I have heard that Walmart has a legal law suit against this and if you order on line you will never get the item. I hope this is true.

[@YingjunRuan-hd6em]

If you have a good real idea then it should be difficult to copy. Otherwise, your idea is not that revolutionary. The idea of patent and copyright is for the rich to exclude everyone else. Human society grow and improve because of exchange of ideas. We learn, we copy and we create new things for old ideas. Exclusivity hinders development. Exclusivity is bad for the common people.

[@nathalieduran7355]

I would say that the great majority who watch your channel love designer fashion and luxury , not for the wealth aspect but because it's generally beautifully made, intricate, unusual and aesthetically stunning. But i wonder if , due to our ocd condition, we forget that 90% of customers have never heard of most designers( apart from the obvious ones like Dior & Chanel.) So they might be buying a row margot dupe on amazon without having a clue. Certainly, the ever increasing price point of luxury goods is very much the number 1 factor for 'fashion' people buying more dupes and fakes. The prices have shot up but people incomes have stagnated and whatever rpi little increases they get has been swallowed up by the cost of utilities food etc... Also people can no longer get access to super easy cheap credit as they could before the financial crisis. So it's the double whammy of no longer being able to save much for luxury and being wiser about abusing credit cards. Yet the luxury industry still keep dangling the goodies in front of people's eyes and luxury is hard to resist. So a lot of people will compromise and they go for the design they love in dupe form. My issue with the dupes and fakes is that it's all made of plastic. They look nice from a distance but you get up close and they stink of petrol and they don't feel at all like real leather does. Personally I can no longer afford luxury prices now i've retired. I have switched back to buying secondhand /preloved/ vintage just like i used to do when i was a skint student.

[@heatherschechter6758]

Cassie....what is what looks like a silver LV bucket at the top right of the screen! I am intrigued....

[@AlexHider]

In my day, if you wanted a counterfeit bag, you had to troll Taobao, kids these days have it so easy :D that reminds me - Songmont used to make an olive version of their drippy bucket bag, however, it got duped and counterfeitted it to high heaven - to the point that they removed the original from the website, it’s discontinued, so now if you want to buy it, you are only going to find the fake. They had to throw away what I consider to be their best design and color way forever. It’s sad.

[@karenstve1769]

Primark is selling their version of VC&A Alambra jewelery. My belief that stores produce dupes is that the real/ designer version has become so common that they want to cash in on the trend. The Wirkin says a lot about Hermes exclusivity, whilst the original may still be out of a lot of peoples budgets, Hermes and its products are no longer seen as for the 'elitists'.

[@jessicadawson2353]

Oh yeah, the VCA dupes are so ubiquitous that a lot of people don’t even know what VCA is. My friend asked where I got my clover necklace. I took a double take.

[@jtsbbsps8000]

obsessed with the eye make up

[@supermanfan3806]

Thank you so much for always making me smile and always making my day Cassie love your channel lots you will always be my favourite KZbinr ever and my inspiration hope your having a beautiful week where did you get your jacket from ❤❤

[@CassieThorpe]

Thank you so much! The jumper was from Derek Lam 💖

[@asc23channel]

I never heard somebody “test driving” something, by buying a fake/dupe first! To be honest: We all know why people buy such items, and there’s not multiple reasons. Fun video. Best wishes ❤

[@gneissschisty]

I’ve literally done this and I did not like the bag so that saved me 3000$ 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@karik2485]

Same!

[@asc23channel]

@ Interesting to hear! I personally have never in my life encountered anybody, who would first actually buy the fake item to “test if it fits me”, and hen go buy the original. Especially not in terms of Range Rover or similar, as she described it. People buy fakes/dupes because they like the original (and the image it brings with it), but can’t - or won’t - afford it. Because where would that start/stop…the real Adidas T-shirt for $38.- and the fake Adidos T-shirt for $17.-? Best wishes nonetheless!

[@tonyabillings201]

@@asc23channelagree with you!

[@gneissschisty]

@@asc23channel there’s a large difference between buying an adidas shirt or a 3000-10000$ bag… I know lots of people that have done this and then decided the bag was for them and got the real one. But sometimes the bag size might not be right… the way it hangs - if it falls open etc etc. For example - I got a fake of the mini kelly and I hated it so I know if I ever get offered one id either resell it or refuse it and go for something larger.

[@Khanh.Nguyen369]

This is just a microcosm of societal macro. People who buy dupes is simply virtue signaling. The excuse of refusing to buy luxury because of the price are doing the same thing on a smaller level. Rather than buying a $5k bag at 20x multiple they simply buy $100 bag at still 20x multiple. You can buy a low cost bag without trying to imitate a brand. And if they are so proud of their virtue signaling then I challenge them to wear any fake into the brand store.

[@YingjunRuan-hd6em]

Peopl who buy expensive brand names are also virtue signalling. People who buy Hermes are the most virtue signalling. They are trying to say "I'm rich" and " Not many people can get this bag". Well the Wirkin just burst their bubbles. Down with the snobs.

[@kirish43]

Btw the working is going for 325.00 on ebay. The 80 dollar bags sold right out

[@cherise2700]

Perhaps the "luxury" bags are perceived to last longer because so many owners baby the bags, or they are mostly a DISPLAY item.

[@triciad4100]

I think if dupes have any effect on the luxury market at all, it's going to be on items like the jelly shoes where the price of the real one doesn't match the quality. I just don't understand how brands keep getting away with charging cashmere prices for acrylic.

[@JayChoyceTibbitts]

I think the traditional definition of “dupe” and “fake” don’t mean anything in modern times. Both words mean the same thing. People buy both dupes and fakes today to FAKE the perception of value that the original product provides. There’s also a very clear status point to this but no one ever wants to talk about that even though status distinction and status hierarchy infiltrate every part of humanity… anyone interested in that part I’d recommend “Status and Culture” by David Marx. As always, thanks Cassie for bringing the good content to our feeds 👌🏾

[@LotsofWhatever]

Some of this also comes down to intent. Dupes like this are clearly created to be so close so that if consumers want to "fake" it they can try. Again intent...they didn't make it to be a fake but ....

[@CassieThorpe]

Trueeee

[@Bunnyyyy-e8f]

Cassie I don't like being shady or anything but if a "not luxury brand" do such thing its called a "dupe" but if a luxury brand do the its called " a ( certain brand's name) version of a (certain article) ? Well...its interesting how ppl be judging this days But anyways i enjoyed watching u hope u'r having a great week hbbty ❤❤

[@CassieThorpe]

🫶💖💖

[@marieblaincruz666]

Honestly in our consumer society / even when you buy quality you get bored give it away and shop some more- quality the myth created to charge you more-

[@jaks_bag_attack]

I have had many dupes i have learned i hate the double flap and boy bag, what I keep them for a few years then move it on, the birkin 25 i hated so I thought it was the bag, till my friend showed me the 40, so then I bought the 35!

[@fdpcompdm]

This would have been a super interesting video if you bought one and did a video "Styled and wore my Wirkin for a week!! My thoughts"

[@JadaReneeCreates]

11k for a bag??? man I wish I had money to blow like that 😅. my most expensive item currently are my glasses which were $475, I don’t think dupes are terrible but these luxury houses and luxury brands know good and well that they will have everybody by their pockets if they want them to😂. Finding out a Dior bag can be made for damn near $60 is wild because the prices that they sit at is also insane😅.

[@BombshellBoss]

I say buy whatever you want, for whatever reason you want but at least be honest - with yourself and others. I was in a small boutique last year that had an almost direct copy of the Fendi First, luckily because I have two of the originals I knew pretty much right away it was a fake/copy. Although, I did do a double take just in case because let’s face it - ownership doesn’t make you an expert - and I noticed a few things; different liner and the arms on the F clasp were longer (it didn’t look balanced, at least to my eyes) and a few other things. The sales lady was working hard trying sell the bag’s other points after confirming it was a fake -“Oh but it’s still made with high quality Italian leather and craftsmanship, etc etc” lol. You should have seen her face fall when I said “Yes it’s very nice, but I already have two of the originals in this size.” She didn’t come near me afterwards and had her coworker deal with me. At least she was honest when she said it wasn’t real and I could tell it was a well made bag and not a cheap knockoff, I have a problem with those because they have a history of organized crime etc. Would I have bought the bag if I didn’t already have the originals? Maybe, although it wasn’t cheap cheap, it was THOUSANDS less and still good quality but I wouldn’t have passed it off as the real thing, then you just look stupid when someone points out otherwise.

[@lovebunny2345]

the bags I don't get, but I honestly love perfume dupes, or at least scents "inspired by" luxury brands! there are independent fragrance makers who are really good

[@jameshooper3369]

I do wonder if dupes feed into the larger picture of stalling luxury fashion. Prices inflated too high, concerns quality is no longer assured regardless of the high cost and a lack of originality across brands. Throw in easily available and convincing dupes it looks like a very corrosive environment for luxury fashion. I wonder if dupes lead to customers going - were those luxury products ever worth the price? And for brands I think they should be worried that if dupes lead their customers to thinking they’re a better choice then the real thing it’s going to be quite difficult to bring them back. I love fashion and always prefer the real thing - but also don’t want to feel ripped off by these large companies. I think at the moment I don’t have high levels of trust in most brands, and feel that is in response to poor marketing and business strategies. Where scale and profit has been chased at the cost of lower quality and a frustrating customer experience. Dupes can short cut all of that - but I also haven’t bought one. It’s a very conflicting time in fashion right now I feel.

[@Volkovalover95]

To be fair even luxury brands dupe other luxury brands all the time nowadays you get what you pay for but sometimes people just don’t wanna spend $10k on a bag that’s not gonna be for everyday use

[@EyeGlassTrainofMind]

Thing is, depending on the brand, I just don’t even think you get what you pay for. Many brands don’t have good quality control and are operating at essentially fast-fashion pace. Brands have lost their quality.

[@martamaljkovic5242]

Very interesting video. I like watching luxury fashion videos, love the colours, the inspiration but I will probably never own an item that expensive because I can't afford. I do like to buy bags that are sometimes inspired by the latest trends in luxury fashion, it brings me joy to be part of the trends that I like in a way that I can afford. I respect the craftmanship of luxury items, I just think I will never be able to afford them and I am ok with that

[@Its_chakecia]

IMO dupes are becoming more popular as luxury fashion becomes more popular and influencers point people in the direction of a cost saving option. We've all been watching content on "How to get the look for less" for YEARS this is just a branch of that. In regard to how it impacts the fashion houses themselves, I think the impact of dupes and replicas (different things as Cassie highlighted) really depends on the vibe of the brand. Gucci for example has always been heavily replicated and duped but is still a munti billion dollar brand. For brands like Hermès I think the impact is a bit more damaging. Their ethos is based heavily on superior craftsmanship and exclusivity. If there are a ton of Birkin like bags running around the allure of that product diminishes. I wouldn't say complex design is the only answer here because the Andiamo and Puzzle bags are also heavily duped, but you can easily (before the stupid Puzzle Edge) tell that bag is fake from a mile away. Unfortunately, I don't think anything will stop it, as long as the bags stay in demand and people refuse to pay the price they'll always be options to get that look for less.

[@georgekoutsoudopoulos]

If only we spent as much time thinking about overconsumption and how it is killing the planet. But also frankly, how much do people think the materials for a £11k bag cost? The added value fashion houses add to something that is really a commodity is largely capitalism on steroids and many are looking to break the cycle. Hand making only adds so much overhead, it's definitely not £10k. Dupes aren't the solution as they frankly buy into the promotion of those ranges by the fashion houses. Can we just acknowledge that it's silly money to pay that for -any- bag? How much is too much?

[@monicamelvin7680]

Hello. I don’t buy dupes of bags but sometimes I may get a dupe of shoes or clothes if it’s really trendy and I know that I probably will wear for only 1 season. If it’s timeless I will spend the money so that it will last.

[@betsyavallone4314]

The funny part is, Walmart sells authentic Hermes Birkin bags though 3rd party sellers.