i've notice a curious situation with some of the younger people I work with re designer handbags.... (i'm in mid 30s, I remember the 80's and splurging on bags doesn't do it for me...)
They'll happily pay Eu200-500 in BT for a big brand, LV / Gucci / Dior, but then also buy the cheap immitations... Why? If I was going to spend that amount of money I'd want something that instantly stood out as being worth the money, not something that looks like every immitation on the street....
I'd prefer a less branded bag that screamed class / money, than one that is hanging off the arm of every wan on the street!