Paris Hilton or Angelina Jolie can probably tell the difference between a knockoff Gucci purse and the real deal, but what are the odds of running into somebody like that?

Most people are oblivious to the differences between authentic and knockoff products. About a year ago, I bought my mom a knockoff Gucci purse, and I can’t tell you how many compliments she’s received – “OMG, you have a Gucci!” It’s a very chic bag, made out of black leather with sequins and a gold G charm hanging on the front zipper.

Most of the time, real items and fakes look so similar that it’s impossible to tell which is which. So when it comes down to it, if it’s going to save you money (or if you can’t afford the original), a knockoff is definitely the way to go. Of course, you want to make sure your purchase isn’t too far off – for example, if you’re looking for a Chanel purse that only comes in black, but you find a knockoff red version, such a slip might give you away to some people.

You can shop for knockoffs online as well as in person – there are a ton of shops in downtown New York, for example, that offer these kinds of products.

With knockoffs, you can literally save yourself hundreds of dollars, if not thousands. And we’re not just talking jackets, shoes, and hats – there are knockoffs of everything, even jewelry!