Counterfeit designer handbags, perfume, and clothing are common products that are sometimes copied with such precision that it’s hard to tell the difference from the originals.

There are, however, some shockingly bad replicas that seem to make no attempt at sounding authentic.

With the addition of just one letter, a classic timeless brand like Chanel, which conjures images of iconic fashion trends, can be turned into, well, a Channel.

The copy of J-Lo’s ‘Glow’, ‘Show’, just doesn’t quite have the same ring to it. Nor does ‘Blue Safe’, the fake version of ‘Cool Water’.

One must wonder, how good can Allure perfume really smell if the bottle says ‘Allusion’?

For only $6.00 you can purchase some genuine Prada perfume over the internet, only don’t be surprised if the package says Parade.

And finally, my favourite – a copycat version of Burbury called ‘Blueberry’.

Unless you want to be wearing fake Britney Spears (which, these days, actually might be more reputable) we suggest you stick to the genuine items by following our tips to avoiding fakes:

Tips

1) Purchase goods directly from the store or alternatively from a reputable source such as a department store or a retail outlet recommended by that brand.

2) Look out for small details on the product such as any irregularities in the size, shape or packaging.

3) Know what you are looking for – research the brand adequately before the purchase so you are aware of what you are buying.

4) Use your instincts – often everything may look right but you may have a hunch that the product is not what it appears to be. If that’s the case, then dont’ splash the cash.