First off, let’s be real. Designer shoes are, like, crazy expensive. Who *actually* has that kind of money just lying around? (Except maybe those influencer types, but who wants to be *them*? No offence if you are one, lol). So, finding something that *looks* the part, without, y’know, selling your kidney, is the name of the game.
I’ve seen a few different approaches. You’ve got the “outlet” route. Places like THE OUTNET are shouting about designer shoes at discount prices. Sounds good in theory, right? But honestly? Sometimes it feels like the “discount” is just a marketing ploy. They might have *some* genuinely good deals, but you gotta really hunt through the piles of stuff nobody else wanted last season (or, like, five seasons ago, lol). And even then, it might still be a bit pricey.
Then there’s the whole… *ahem*… “dupe” scene. I saw something about Amazon dupes in one of those snippets you gave me. Amazon can be a treasure trove, or a total disaster. It’s like rummaging through your grandma’s attic – you might find a gem, but you’ll probably find a lot of dust and things you wish you hadn’t seen. You gotta be *really* careful with quality there. Read the reviews! Like, *really* read them. And be prepared for the possibility that what arrives looking amazing in the picture will look decidedly… *less* amazing in real life. Trust me, I’ve been burned before. Once ordered “leather” boots that felt suspiciously like, well, plastic. Not my finest moment.
Daniel Footwear is another one that pops up. They seem to carry actual designer brands (Gucci, even!), but maybe at better prices? I’d definitely check them out. Plus, FREE Click & Collect and Returns? That’s always a win in my book.
Oh, and don’t forget the high street! Places like Zara, Mango, even H&M, *constantly* churn out stuff that’s “inspired by” (let’s be honest, straight-up copies) of designer trends. The quality might not be heirloom-worthy, but if you just want something for a season or two, it’s a solid option.
Mytheresa is probably a good place to find the real deal, but unless you won the lottery recently, maybe stick to window shopping there (unless you’re seriously treating yourself, you deserve it!).