There are two scenarios when it comes to reps.

Since a lot of reps are made in China for predominantly Chinese consumers, Chinese trends and tastes can really dictate the popularity of reps. The more popular a brand or an item is in China, the more effort/investment they make into repping it. This is why it’s relatively easy to get a high quality Chanel CF or Celine. The discerning customers drive continual improvement. A less popular brand like Mulberry is never going to be rep to similar high standards.

The second possibility is when an item is manufactured in China. This is where you hear the term ‘grey market’. Theoretically these items are manufactured for the brand under their specifications but they don’t pass QC or whatever reason. But that’s not always the case. Some popular brands (like Reformation) are knocked off with cheaper materials (e.g a silk dress is copied using polyester fabric, whilst maintaining the same overall design).

So if your item is not very popular in China or if it’s not made in China, there’s a lower chance of you finding a rep. In most cases, there’s no reason for factories/sellers to make or stock out of season items. They don’t have infinite inventory.