Designer handbags are extremely popular, but you should be careful buying them. That’s because you could be getting a knockoff, instead. Some handbags that look like designer bags are really just imitations, made in huge quantities using low grade materials and construction. There are some that are higher in quality, and might be called “designer inspired” handbags. These look a lot like authentic Dior, Prada, Kate Spade and similar bags, but unlike the cheap knockoffs, they don’t claim to be the real thing. These bags have the look, but don’t fake logos or tags. That makes them inexpensive alternatives for people who like designer bags but can’t pay the high price for the designer name.

Designer inspired handbags can be purchased in traditional stores, and are bought by many people who don’t feel like they can afford the real thing, whereas counterfeits are sold in nontraditional markets like auction sites and flea markets. They may cost more than designer inspired pieces, even though the construction is poor. That?s because sellers of these fake handbags are hoping that you?ll believe they’re authentic.

Purchasing online is very difficult unless you are dealing with a renowned store or boutique that you already know and trust. This is why, for instance, famed online auction houses use their feedback factors as some protection.

One way you can tell the difference between an authentic bag from a designer label and one that’s a fake is that the real bags will be carefully photographed so you can see the whole bag, inside and out. Counterfeit bags are often poorly photographed, and shown in a group. You’re also unlikely to find authenticity tags on a fake designer bag, unless the seller is trying to hoodwink you into believing it’s the real thing.

Designer bags use good materials, not inexpensive vinyl, and good construction. If you see low quality stitching or other telltale details, you may be looking at a fake. Make sure the seller is using a picture that represents the kind of bag you want to own.

You should always pay for a designer bag via credit card. This keeps you from being unable to do anything if you’re ripped off. A chargeback can be done if the bag turns out not to be the real thing. Just remember that it’s harder to do this if the seller is outside the United States. Likewise, long shipping charges from foreign sellers can keep you from being able to act within the appropriate window for a complaint or refund.

Designer-inspired bags, not counterfeit bags, are sometimes also referred to as designer replica handbags. These will let you own the latest hot design for a much less expenditure. These bags will be available in online stores, as well as many discount retailers. However, at least you then know what you are buying and you know what you are going to receive, as opposed to counterfeit bags.

Paying for real designer quality is worth it for many of us when we go to buy a handbag. Don’t let yourself fall prey to imitations if you’re in the market for a designer handbag. Save up and go with the real thing - you’ll be able to enjoy it for a long time to come.