I buy knock-off's (aka "fakes"-- they have the name brand logo on them) at local purse parties. Many name brands are available in various colors & styles as a knock-offs. I've purchased 1 coach bag, 2 Prada bags and one Dulce & Gabbana. They look pretty authentic, but like a PP stated, someone who carries the original would be able to tell the difference. I'll tell ya though, I get so many comments on my purses, mainly because they see the brand plate.
Just the other day I was going into the courthouse and had to put my purse in a tub to go through the x-ray machine. When I was waiting for my purse on the other side, the security guard asked, "Oh, I have to ask who owns the Prada?" I said it was mine. He said it was really nice and that his wife would love something like that! I just say thanks and chuckle because I paid $40, not $1400 or more.