They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but counterfeit goods cost the design industry billions of dollars each year.

When it comes to fakes and the real deal, sometimes the difference is very obvious. I remember holidaying in Greece when I was younger and seeing laughing at the misspelled brand names for sale in the local market - “Adibas”, “Pansoanic” and “Reebock” spring to mind. Why buys these things?!

Sometimes the difference is not in the spelling but the quality. Famous prints like Burberry tartan or the Louis Vuitton logo are seen not just on genuine designer bags and clothing in high end stores, but also on copycat goods made from plasticky, cheap materials sold on market stalls and in low-end wholesalers. 

I recently read an article in the newspaper which asked the question, “Is Moschino’s logo belt [below] the most faked accessory?”

Thanks to something of a 1990s fashion revival, Moschino’s infamous logo belt of that era is making a comeback. Celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and the Kardashians have been snapped wearing vintage Moschino belts, and in response Moschino recently announced it was to start making them again.

Cue the fakers.

One expert believes that up to 90% of the Moschino logo belts up for sale at any time are in fact fakes. She advises people to check for non-sliding lettering and a serial number printed on the back – if these hallmarks are absent, the belt is likely fake.

But it’s harmless, right? Designer products cost far too much anyway, so what's the harm in buying cheap counterfeit goods?

Well, aside from the financial impact and damage to the reputation of the original designer, the manufacturer of counterfeit goods is often implicated in funding a dark underworld: child sex trafficking, slavery, prostitution and terrorism all have known links to the fake trade.

What’s your take on fakes? Have you ever bought a counterfeit ‘designer’ product and would you do it again?

About the Author:

Although her primary niche is in scientific writing and editing, freelance writer Lisa Martin is also a creative type with an eye for design. She regularly works alongside graphic designers and as such has a keen interest in the development of logos and branding.