Q. But this is fashion—everybody copies everybody else! How else would we know that ballet flats and trapeze dresses are “in” for summer?

A. The new law would apply only to very close copies, not trends or inspiration. But it could bring about some changes—just over a decade ago, YSL sued Ralph Lauren for copying an evening gown under a similar law in France, and won.

Q. Can I get arrested or fined for just buying a fake?

A. Not in the U.S., but both France and Italy have recently passed laws targeting consumers of counterfeit merchandise. Also, if you go on vacation outside the U.S. and try to bring back illegal fakes, both you and the merchandise could be stopped at customs. But hey, at least you’ll have a great tan in your mug shot.

The bottom line, from a legal perspective anyway, is that selling and even buying fakes can be risky—but the choice is up to you. Will it be a cheap designer knockoff or an original at an affordable price point? Class dismissed—it’s time to shop!