Fashion is not always about reinventing the wheel. Sometimes it's all about copying it. Although, I'm sure they'd prefer a slightly more eloquent word for it. Homage, tribute...something along those lines. The point is the trickling down effect of trends and styles is an intrinsic part of the industry. No one describes it better than Miranda Priestly in her cerulean sweater monologue (which does not exist on youtube so you're on your own on that one). Sometimes it's just a color, sometimes it's an entire piece. Here in lies my latest venture, where I take a runway-featured item and show its real world counterpart. Sound good? I know, majority of shoppers (ie those who don't obsessively read blogs, views slideshows, actually have lives, etc) don't care if their striped scarf is inspired by Prada or cat eye sunnies are Karen Walker knockoffs. However, it's a peek into the industry and how its cycle works. We can't all afford the real thing hence why some genius created the idea of fast fashion--offering up high fasion-inspired designs for a fraction of the cost. Here we go....
First on the list is a popular, must-have bag for fashionistas everywhere. It's been mentioned in every magazine and blog twice and photographed to death. Proenza Schouler's PS1 bag is the perfect combo of utilitarian functionality and sleek design that goes with everything.
(photos via net-a-porter)
It retails anywhere from $1200 to $2500, depending on your carrying needs.
It's a beauty, right? Well, let's cue the knockoffs...
asos $125.51
topshop $110
forever 21 $22.80
top: proenza schouler
bottom: target $34.99
The same rules apply if you're caught cheating in fashion as is was in school--a trip to the office. In real world terms that means the court room. Target's bag was a little too close for comfort for the folks at PS, forcing them to take legal action. This is not always the case with copycats, but when borrowing ideas turns into greedy overindulgences, then things can get a little ugly.
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