Serwaa Amihere, Mzbel, Afia Schwarzenegger
Media personality, Serwaa Amihere, has drawn criticism from showbiz personalities Efia Odo, Mzbel and Afia Schwarzenegger after she advised young women against buying counterfeit designer bags.
Serwaa, a lawyer and broadcaster, sparked debate after a video of her advising women to avoid fake designer items if they could not afford the originals circulated on social media.
Efia Odo was among the first to react, questioning why anyone should be concerned about another person’s decision to buy a fake designer bag.
In a video shared on X, she argued that people should not be judged by their clothing and accessories, particularly when it comes to employment.
“I think what our sister wanted to say was, ‘Cut your coat according to your size.’ But if my size is to have a fake Birkin, what is her problem? And why should you not hire someone because they are wearing a fake Birkin?” she asked.
She maintained that a person’s qualifications, rather than their appearance or possessions, should determine their suitability for a job.
Efia Odo also questioned the affordability of designer products for young people, arguing that many jobs in Accra did not pay enough to support such lifestyles.
Musician, Mzbel, also weighed in on the debate, insisting people should not be judged by what they wear or carry.
She noted that imitation products were common, extending beyond bags to wigs, nails, eyelashes and cosmetic enhancements.
“Fake is fake; it doesn’t matter how expensive it is. If it is fake, it is fake. Fake BBL, nails, wigs, bags, and even buttocks. Opinions shouldn’t be formed about you based on the kind of bag you are holding,” she said.
Afia Schwarzenegger, meanwhile, challenged Serwaa Amihere over the remarks, sharing an alleged conversation from 2021 in which the broadcaster was reportedly discussing the purchase of imitation jewellery.
She argued that Serwaa should be mindful of her comments, particularly given that not everyone could afford original designer products.
“The statement you made was so uncalled for. The copper chains are someone’s business, and it’s not everyone who can afford the original chain,” Afia Schwarzenegger said.
She further urged the broadcaster to be more measured in her public commentary, given her professional background as a lawyer.
The reactions have fuelled an online debate about the use of counterfeit designer products, financial status and the tendency to judge people by their appearance.