This is defined as a patent or, trademark infringement. Replicas usually have fake company branding and logos. Really take a good, hard look at the logo. Step#1: Scrutinize and Compare the Labels The following steps have been listed to serve as a checklist in your pursuit of discernment in buying an authentic item or replica. The word counterfeit frequently describes both the forgeries of currencies and official documents, as well as the imitating such items as fashions, purses, shoes, drugs (pharmaceuticals), car and airplane parts, watches, electronics (parts and finished products), computer software, artwork, toys, and films. Counterfeit products are most often manufactured and sold with the intent of taking advantage of the excessive value of the designer product. Counterfeit products are fakes manufactured without authorization to replicate the real product. To counterfeit a product is to produce an item as close to the original as possible. Understanding the Basic Motivation and Most Likely Targets What Exactly is a Counterfeit? Why do They Exist? “Yeah, my sister knows a guy who sells all this designer stuff at a fraction of the price”. “Look what I got online for a song,” she sings. Just then, your oldest daughter comes home from high-school, laughing and giggling with her best friend who is dancing around your living room showing off the very clutch you’ve been dreaming about. Between the kids, childcare and groceries, treating yourself to a clutch by Celine is an impossibility unless you sell your car and walk to work for the rest of the year. “So, how can I get my hands on one of these?” you ask, looking sadly at your single mom’s paycheck. Whatever you’re into athletic wear, luggage, purses or jewelry, I can guarantee there is a designer who can read your mind, knows your taste and designs the exact suit, dress or heels that will drive you mad with desire. “I’m cool and I’m able to afford the real thing,” says your authentic Adidas 3D printed shoe, retailing for $2500. “I’m savvy, sophisticated and stylish,” whispers your Gucci shoes as you saunter over to your favorite booth in a restaurant. Like an extension of one’s own personality, these awesome designer items say volumes about us without ever having to utter a word. It’s true that many designers are just so talented and good at what they do, there are people willing to manufacturer and market sub-standard counterfeits hoping to capitalize on their success. We’ve all heard about art work, money and of course identities all being counterfeited and sold illegally. Designer fashions are highly coveted and collected these days, making them the focal point and target of many a knock-off manufacturer. What an amazing, informative and surprising topic this is for the next luncheon or get together with friends. No replica’s, counterfeit’s or knock-offs for you! The only problem is you’ve never seen a replica and despite your knowledge of brands and designers, you’re just a little apprehensive about making a very costly mistake. So, you’re a big fan of designer shoes, and, before buying another pair you’d really like to make sure you are getting what you paid for and not getting ripped-off.