What are the Best Fake Markets in Los Angeles?

What are the Best Fake Markets in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles, popularly known as LA, is one of the most famous cities in the world. If you are visiting for the first time, you are in for so many pleasant surprises. First is the Hollywood scene and all the Hollywood stars. Then the urban culture, trendy fashion, and more. This city will leave you in awe.

One of the most exciting things is fashion. This is where most trends start, especially with urban or fast fashion. There are plenty of options when it comes to clothing, shoes, accessories, bags, and more. You will find great authentic styles, as well as imitation of luxury goods. Let’s take a look at the fake markets.

Image: A photo of a crowded street in Hollywood, California, USA, with people walking up and down beside tall buildings and shops with huge signs.

Santee Alley

Santee Alley is a famous outdoor shopping street in the Fashion District that’s packed with lots of fake designer stuff. It is made up of tight rows of shops and stalls selling everything from clothes and shoes to perfumes, watches, and handbags.

Many of these items are “inspired by” big designer brands like Chanel, Fendi, Balenciaga, and Versace. You will see bags that look exactly like the real ones, but don't be fooled. Most of them are just imitation products.

Prices are cheap, and vendors are super friendly, and if you are good at bargaining, you are sure to get amazing deals.

Alameda Swap Meet

The Alameda Swap Meet is another great place if you are on the hunt for affordable, “branded” items. It is an indoor market and not as famous as Santee Alley, but it is just as exciting.

Inside, you will find rows of tiny shops selling fake name-brand shoes, gold chains, belt buckles, and even kids' clothes with logos that look a lot like Nike or Adidas. The building is huge and covered, making it great for a shopping trip even when it is too hot or rainy outside.

Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is one of LA’s coolest and most fashionable streets, filled with streetwear boutiques, sneaker shops, and second-hand stores. While many shops here sell authentic fashion, there is a growing trend of dupes, replicas, and knock-offs, especially in independent streetwear stores.

One of the most famous weekend spots is the Melrose Trading Post, a large outdoor market held every Sunday at Fairfax High School. This is where you will find vintage clothes, handmade jewellery, streetwear dupes, and designer-inspired fashion. A lot of vendors sell things that are clearly “inspired by” top brands like Supreme, Balenciaga, Chrome Hearts, and more.

It is also a hotspot for Instagram influencers, local fashion lovers, and people who love the ‘look’ without spending thousands. Go early in the day to get the best picks before the crowds arrive, and make sure to bring cash, as many sellers prefer it.

Image: A photo of a woman wearing a mask, sitting at a table on a street stall, selling handbags, backpacks, and hats.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking to splash out at designer boutiques or shop for lookalikes that let you live the luxury life on a budget, there is always a market for every style and every price range in LA. Just shop responsibly, ask questions, and don’t get scammed into thinking a fake is real.