Crime of Fashion: Counterfeiting Goods in the Fashion Industry

There is a saying: “Monkey see, Monkey do.” In today’s world, it seems that it’s only natural for humans to imitate what they see works in society. Though there are beneficial facets for imitating, there are also damaging consequences. Counterfeit is a strong word that describes companies that forge bills or create fake fashion goods, electronic items, and even pharmaceuticals. For the purpose of this research, the focus will be on the different aspects of counterfeiting goods in the fashion industry. Though fashion has continuously changed, been reinvented and some even being dubbed ‘classics’, one thing will always remain: a designer’s ability to express creativity. Fashion is mainly dictated by trends whether they are past, present, or future, making counterfeiting in the fashion industry is a very lucrative, multibillion industry. The current economic climate allows for luxury to be almost ludicrously unaffordable. With high demands for low cost items, the market thrives on consumers’ obsession with spending while saving at the same time. With the 21st century’s expectations and having the need to be worth something, it yields an unstoppable industry. This is especially prominent among women because they are predominantly image-based and willing to hunt for the perfect equilibrium between trend and price. The desire to appeal a certain way induces counterfeiting. Fashion savvy shoppers long for that moment when they can afford Christian Louboutin, Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and other rare or out of reach goods. The more unobtainable the product, the more desirable it is. It is not a surprise that many are willing to purchase the counterfeit than the authentic due to its resemblance and price. Counterfeiting affects the industry be...

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...lawsuits. Informative videos that show interviews of key players that fight to stop the illegal activities include ABC Nightline, ABC: Faking It, and Katie Couric’s segment on counterfeit fashion. It’s comforting to see that there is an awareness that is building. The contribution between eBay, the Council of Fashion Designers of America, and the major designers in world is really one of the first steps in spreading attention and understanding of fake of fashion goods. So far, each year of its planned event has found success. Consumers should take the awareness to heart and be proactive in extending it to prevent catastrophes in areas of human creativity and economy. This would also include inhibiting further subsidy of illegal activities. Counterfeiting is an undeclared war and consumers are the only ones who can essentially save the world from its negative impact.