RHONY's Ramona Singer: Genuine Gucci or Counterfeit Accusations?

On any given episode of Bravo's Real Housewives of New York, drama is as ubiquitous as the designer handbags that the ladies carry. These women are known for toting hefty loads of personality and luxury accessories, from Chanel to Louis Vuitton, and even Hermès. But the latest twist involves a possible counterfeit Gucci.

The Accusation

During the season 12 reunion finale, newcomer Leah McSweeney accused veteran castmate Ramona Singer of carrying a fake Gucci bag on the show. The accusation came after McSweeney mocked Singer's over-the-top reaction to a Gucci Ophidia Snakeskin Shoulder Bag gifted by friends for her birthday. McSweeney claimed that no one acts that way over a handbag, and then asserted that another Gucci bag Singer carried earlier in the season was fake. Sonja Morgan can be heard in the background chanting “Chinatown,” a known NYC spot for counterfeit goods.

Examining the Evidence

Producers then cut to a scene showing Singer with a black Gucci GG Marmont Shoulder Bag on her lap. This same bag was also seen worn over the shoulder in an earlier episode, appearing to be the small size. While I am not an authentication expert, and the screen grabs aren't the clearest, there are no glaring signs that would indicate the bag is fake, even when watching the actual footage. However, McSweeney works in the fashion industry and is clearly a purse enthusiast herself, often seen carrying Saint Laurent and other covetable bags on the show. So, would she lie to make her castmate look bad, or does her trained eye see something we don't?