What Unites the Owner of a Fake and the Owner of an Original?

In the world of fashion and luxury, there is a clear distinction between authentic branded items and counterfeits. However, if we look deeper, we can find interesting parallels between their owners. Despite differences in cost, quality, and status, they share several key factors.

- The Desire to Own a Brand.
Both categories of people strive for a well-known name. Brands are not just items; they are symbols of status, prestige, and a particular lifestyle. For example, a Hermès Birkin bag is associated with success and wealth, while Nike sneakers represent trendy style and sports culture. The owner of a fake and the owner of an original may have the same goal: to showcase their affiliation with the luxury world.

- Influence of Fashion and Trends.
Both groups are influenced by fashion trends. When new Chanel 2.55 bags appear on the runway, millions of people instantly desire them. However, not everyone can afford a bag worth several thousand dollars, which is why the counterfeit market thrives, offering replicas for a fraction of the price.

- Perception of Value.
For an owner of an original, key factors include quality, exclusivity, and investment value. Some Rolex or Louis Vuitton models not only retain their price but also appreciate over time. The owner of a fake, on the other hand, also perceives value in their purchase—the ability to look expensive without spending a fortune.

- Self-Expression and Social Status.
Purchasing luxury goods is often a way of self-expression. Some choose counterfeits because they want to follow fashion but cannot afford the original. Others invest in authentic pieces, knowing they enhance their social status. In both cases, the item becomes part of a person’s image.

- Possibility of Being Misled.
Not all owners of fakes knowingly purchase counterfeits. The counterfeit market is so developed that many “high-quality replicas” are sold as originals, leading people to believe they own a genuine item. For example, an inexperienced buyer may purchase a Gucci bag on the second-hand market, thinking it’s authentic, especially if the fake is well-made.
Owners of both originals and fakes share a desire for aesthetics, branding, and a particular lifestyle. However, the key difference lies in motivation: some are willing to invest in quality and authenticity, while others seek more affordable alternatives. Ultimately, the issue is not just about price but about one’s attitude toward the brand, its values, and its ideology.