Imitation = Flattery?

While I was on Twitter today I received an update from Lucky (@LuckyMagazine) talking about their online store and how the items were "curated by their editors". So I thought I would take a peek at what they had out there.

I opened the site and saw this and was immediately shocked. Why? See that sparkly bejeweled sandal...



Here's a closer look...




Yes, it is a total knock-off (rip-off!) by BCBG of the Miu Miu Capretto sandal from the Resort 2007/2008 line. I even wrote about them... and ordered them (but I ended up returning them. Sad face.)

I know these are a few seasons back and the price difference is significant but I'm surprised that a major fashion publication is knowingly promoting these shoes that are obvious and less well executed lifts from Miu Miu's designs. Is it possible that they didn't notice it? Or did Dillards (where these sandals are being sold) just buy space on the Lucky site and this over-rode the whole authenticity of the "curated" statement.

Which would be worse to you - lying, ignorance, theft? I'd love your thoughts.