Knock Offs or the Real Thing? When To Save on Fake

Having a tough time deciding when to go fake and when to go Fendi? There is a lot of money to be saved with knockoffs, but they can also be a complete waste of resources because of shoddy workmanship and poor quality. Here are a few circumstances when affordable knockoffs can be better than the real thing.

Replica Dresses - Herve Leger’s iconic bandage dresses sell for more than $1,000 a pop at Neiman Marcus. But you can still score his form fitting style for about a tenth of the price. Head to MyDressDream.com and search for replicas. Shipping is free and the looks are still hot.

Over-the-Counter Meds - These knockoffs may look like the real thing—they even share similar packaging colors and branding. But you can save as much as 50% simply by purchasing the store brand rather than the real deal. Just check the ingredient list, but most of the time they’re identical.

Sunglasses - A pair of designer shades can easily cost over $100. However, changing trends make it tough to prevent a budget breakdown. Instead, opt for designer replicas which sell for the always-in-style price of $9.95 at Designersreplica.com.

Fake Tanning Products - Fake tans are so much better than the real thing. They’re healthier for your skin and lead to fewer wrinkles in the future. Get a natural looking knockoff with affordable products like Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer, $8.79 from Drugstore.com.

Restaurant Recipes - Obsessed with the Chicken Bryan at Carrabbas or Olive Garden’s Berry Sangria? Skip the restaurant and make it at home for a fraction of the cost with the help of copycat.com. They’ve shared hundreds of knock-off recipes that will taste so much like the real thing you’ll want to leave yourself a tip.

By Alison Storm

Books-A-Million coupon - Unfortunately, there's no substitute for REAL books by your fave authors, but you can save $10 on orders of $50 or more with coupon code BRN935 through 09/17/2011.

eBags coupon - Designer or knockoff bag? They're all here, so you can choose! Save $25 on orders of $75 or more with coupon code KS23716 through 10/01/2011.