Knockoffs are a part of the fashion industry and it’s often hard to bring those that offer fake merchandise to justice.  However, in Detroit Michigan, the police seized almost a million dollars worth of counterfeit clothing, apparel, and accessories during two raids on November 28th and 30th.

Two stores were involved, but it seems that many of the items were from China. These stores were selling the imposter goods under the labels of Prada, Gucci, Coogi, Ed Hardy, Polo, and Coach, just to name a few.  The customers were duped into believing this clothing was the real deal

Also in on the raids were agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Only one person from each store was arrested, but there will be more in the coming days.

The seized goods were being sold at a greatly reduced prices off of what would have been normal retail price had they been authentic.  For example, a fax Polo shirt that was tagged with a retail price at $149 was on sale for $35.  Eventually the clothing will be destroyed.

How big an industry are knockoff fashion designs?  Some experts estimate that that number around a billion a year.  For many women, a $1500 Gucci Handbag or a $2000 pair of Prada shoes is not possible.  A knockoff gives women a chance to experience some of the fashion, but without the hefty price tag.  Designers are pushing for stricter regulations and laws governing these counterfeit items.

Some people wonder if anyone is really getting hurt by the knockoffs and most of the designers will tell that it’s the worst end of the business.  However, with the economy sliding downward across the world, it’s a dark side of the fashion industry that isn’t going away any time soon.

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It really quite surprising that it only took 14 years for Geox to become the second largest shoe manufacturer in the world. Only Clark’s in the UK is larger. Geox is based out of Italy and sold 23 million pairs of shoes in 2008. In an industry that has been hit by the world recession, this is quite a, well, “feat.”

When jogging in the desert in Nevada, Mario Moretti Polegato cut holes in his shoes because his feet were sweating.  His family was in Reno attending a wine convention and when they returned to Montebelluna, he contacted people at a local university to see if they could design a material for footwear that was inertly breathable, but also strong and durable. They developed a microporous membrane that acts like a second skin. Polegato patented the idea and tried to sell it to the world’s largest shoe manufacturers, but no one was interested.

Polegato and a few friends decided to manufacture the shoes by themselves. With a €500,000 bank loan, they set to design children’s shoes at first.  They were a smashing success locally and it wasn’t long before the mother’s wanted a line of these shoes themselves. Then the men wanted them as well. The main office of the company is still in Monetbelluna.

Today, Geox is in 68 countries, with 34 stores in the United States and 400 in the UK.  Polegato is not quite satisfied, however. He wants to break into the casual and sport arena of footwear as well. This is undoubtedly the largest part of the shoe industry and he’s working to develop a line of shoes that breathes, is durable, and stylish for athletes and others. Given the past history of the company, Geox will undoubtedly make that jump quite easily.

If you want a fantastic pair of boots that have a style somewhat reminiscent of Timberland, then it’s time to stop and browse through some of the latest styles. You are sure to find your next favorite pair.

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In the Spring show for Dolce and Gabbana, it was quite evident that they looked back in order to go forward.  The runway was gone at the premier, and the dark space was lit up with light.  This brought back memories of the 90’s, much to the delight of the audience.  The collection was right on cue for that time as well.

By recapturing the curvy Latin Lingerie, mannish tailoring, macramé dresses, and chintzes in rose patterns, these clothes were aimed at a completely new generation.  The market is now global, especially with two bloggers who had front row seats.

The collection was decidedly South American, from the tango bar feel to the silk fringing on beautiful black lace dresses.  This collection is by far one of the favorites in quite a while from Dolce and Gabba clothing.  The icing on the cake was the corsets at the end, instead of the overdone ballroom gowns.  While this was certainly a sidestep from their traditional finale, it was very well received.

In the men’s collection, the design team set out to pay homage to the male body.  With embellishments on virtually everything, including a bathrobe, this was one hot collection. The color theme was most assuredly black and white, which is often the most popular by men around the world. Most men will love the new suits, bomber jackets, and the roomy pants, but may shy away from the sequined and metallic beaded jackets, but there are several pieces that truly emphasize the machismo that Dolce and Gabbana are quite famous for.

This is really a great collection for 2010 and it deserves more than just a passing glance for those that want the cutting edge of fashion.  For once, both the men and the women should be quite happy.

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There has been a lot of talk this season about the latest shoes from the Spring 2010 Prada collection. The reviews are rather mixed.  Most women either love these shoes or hate them.  For those that love them, it’s a look that distinctly original, flirty, and has a very unique air.

Naysayers are complaining that these shoes look too much like the stripper shoes commonly found in the 1990s. Other complaints are about the Velcro that is so very noticeable. Finally, the last complaint is usually about the clear PVC and it’s ability to breathe when used in footwear designs.

All this aside, these shoes are really something that deserves a second look. The chandelier drops make these Prada shoes anything but ordinary.  The different colors heels add a nice touch as well, This line was inspired by a “business to beach” look, and with the shoes, it’s pretty much was a winner, for some, that it.

One thing that you can count on from Prada is to never hit the same trend as the competition. From the clear bags that were obviously not a hit a couple of years ago from another designer to these shoes that could be only appeal to certain women’s taste, Prada continues to do her own thing. It’s one of the reasons why there is a specific following for some collections.

Last year’s shoes were exceedingly popular, however. It seems that each year, Prada goes from one extreme to other, bypassing every marker for the latest trends. For many designers, adding to the latest line of shoes only means to follow what some others have created. With Prada, this certainly is not an issue. If you love Prada shoes and you love something unique, this collection will appeal to you.

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With many of the previews in New York this year for Spring 2010 becoming jumbled all together, Marc Jacobs has once again previewed a line that stands apart from the others. Infusing a subtle 1950’s style with a trendy, modern design, he shows off his true prowess as a designer through muted pastel colors and wild textures.  As always, there are amazing shoes and bags, which is quite something you can count on with any of MJ’s collections. However, he has always had the ability to set the bar very high for the fashion industry.

2010 has brought muted pastel colors and wild textures to the forefront. Even though MJ’s colors are not vivid like those for his Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring Collection, this line is anything but boring. You don’t get the studs and leather, either. This line truly brings out the femininity of the models – something that MJ stated he wanted to do with this collection. He was tired of all the black that was out there for young women and wanted something much lighter.

One of the top looks was a fitted army jacket paired with a ruffled mini skirt. The utilitarian style jackets were the one of the many highlights of the collection, available in army green, tan, and shades of green. These flattering jackets were perfectly cut and very flattering.  Handkerchief hem dresses in pale pastels were also popular, as well as a tulle gown, with a translucent design and black piping.

As far as accessories, there were man oversized bags in a variety of metallic hues, and messenger bags in rich brown leather. Flat wooden sandals and kitten heel flip-flops completed the many fantastic looks in this collection.

It really shows the versatility in the designs, styles, and fabrics that Marc Jacobs loves to use in his collections. This is one of the best seasons by far for one of the world’s best known fashion designers.

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Wow! That’s one word that comes to mind when you first see the newest Prada handbags. From the Prada Pouchette to the Wash Bag, you’re sure to love the latest looks. One of the favorites for the Spring 2010 line has to be the Saffiano bag. This vintage style Prada bag is a huge hit and it comes in a variety of colors. Check out the pastel yellows and blues or the more garish orange and pink. Of course, the black and white and simple block colors are also available.

This bag is designed to be worn on the shoulder; however, there are many celebs walking around with it clutched in their hand. It looks way hotter that way, especially when the hand is attached to Sienna Miller!  Penelope Cruz and Victoria Beckham are also frequently seen with the Saffiano bag.

This collection is in the shops now and on the Prada website as of November 2009.  However, you may want to start putting away the cash now.  The price tag attached is around $1500.

There are a couple of other bags that really deserve a mention as well. The Pochette is very stylish and the embellishments of add a nice touch of elegance. This bag is one of the most popular now, especially since it’s available in so many different designs and colors. You will love the versatility of these Prada handbags. Don’t forget to check out the Weekend Workbag, as well.

There is no doubt that Prada handbag are some of the most desired of all the designer bags. With the 2010 collection, you’ll find many of the vintage styles you love with a new trendy twist. With the holidays approaching, you’ll want to make sure you have your favorite bag on your Christmas list!

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