Why I Choose Authenticity Over Replicas in Fashion

Real YSL vs. fake YSL

Today, while browsing online, I stumbled across a stunning fake Yves Saint Laurent bag. It was absolutely gorgeous and definitely eye-catching, but I had to pass it up. The simple fact is, I don't buy replicas on purpose. This is 2025, not 2001. In my view, wearing replicas in this day and age is a definite no-go.

I spent the day watching a YouTuber who shared their thoughts on why they no longer go into debt for designer clothes, and their reasoning really resonated with me. The YouTuber emphasized that true wealth doesn’t flaunt itself with ostentatious designer labels splashed all over. It’s about how you carry yourself and the values you uphold, not the brands you wear. 

If I don’t stand for something solid, then I’ll fall for anything superficial. At the end of the day, whose opinions am I truly trying to impress? No one. So why should I waste my money on a bunch of designer bags that do nothing to define my style or integrity? Instead, I’m more drawn to the “old money” look—timeless, classic, and sophisticated without the need for flashy logos.

Just to illustrate this point, I wanted to share a quick comparison: check out the image on the left of the authentic Yves Saint Laurent and on the right, you’ll see the fake one from Elis-Paris. The real one costs $3,800 and the fake one only costs $118. It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of a beautiful bag, but for me, it’s all about value, authenticity, and making conscious choices that align with my beliefs.

In this era, let’s prioritize what truly matters over what appears to be impressive. After all, fashion should be a reflection of who you are, not just what you can buy.

###