what are dupes in shoes

Table of Contents

size:237mm * 165mm * 59mm
color:Orange
SKU:603
weight:333g

What Are Dupes? Business Risks & Opportunities

Dupes são alternativas baratas que se assemelham a produtos caros. No TikTok, a procura por esses itens se intensificou nos últimos meses. Vídeos com a hashtag .

Designer Shoe Dupes to Up Your Style Game for

What is a Dupe? A dupe is short for “duplicate”, meaning it is a product designed to closely resemble a more expensive or high-end item at a fraction of the price. Dupes can be found in .

What are Dupes in Fashion? A Guide for Dupe Clothing

A designer dupe or dupe is pretty much the same as a replica and sold in many stores like H&M, Zara, Forever 21, River Island, etc. It’s an item of clothing, shoes, .

What Is A Dupe? And Why Is Everyone

Knockoffs – known now as ‘dupes’ (short for duplicate) – are a hot topic of conversation. If you tune into fashion podcasts, or spend time on TikTok, you’ve probably .

The Best Hoka Running Shoe Dupes You

These designer dupes are all about saving you money while giving you the best quality clones of your favorite designer products. They include dupes for designer .

What are Dupes and Should You Buy Them?

From Chanel-inspired slingbacks to Gucci-style loafers, we’ve rounded up 18 jaw-dropping designer shoe dupes that deliver the same chic, polished look at a fraction of the .

12 Stunning Designer Shoe Dupes:

There are high-quality Hoka dupes and alternatives from brands like Brooks, Asics, Nike, and more—and we found the best pairs.

We Found All The BEST Chanel Dupes

In this post, I’m sharing with you the best dupes for some of the most popular designer shoes. From Chanel to Bottega, Gianvito Rossi to The Row. So let’s get into it.

Best Designer Dupes Website 2024: The

Specifically, this post will help you understand what designer dupes mean. .and whether it’s legal for you to buy or sell. You’ll also learn (briefly): why people buy dupes .

15 Hermès Sandals dupes & alternatives

Find the best designer shoe dupes and lookalikes for a fraction of the cost. From Jimmy Choo to Manolo Blahnik, we’ve got you covered. Discover affordable Valentino .

Basically, a “dupe” is short for “duplicate,” but in the fashion world, it’s code for “lookalike but way cheaper.” Think of it like this: you’re drooling over those $800 Chanel slingbacks (because, let’s be real, who *isn’t*?), but your bank account is screaming “ramen noodles for the next six months!” Enter the dupe! It’s a shoe that mimics the style, look, and maybe even tries to copy some of the feel of the Chanel slingback, but for a fraction—and I mean a FRACTION—of the price.

Now, why are people obsessed with these things? Well, duh, it’s the money, honey! We all want to look like a million bucks without actually *spending* a million bucks. Plus, sometimes, the designer version is just… impractical. Like, those Manolo Blahniks are gorgeous, yeah, but are you *really* going to wear them to the grocery store? Probably not. But a dupe? You might not feel so bad if you scuff ’em while chasing after a rogue shopping cart.

And it’s not just about saving money. Some dupes are actually surprisingly good quality. Like, I’ve seen some Hoka running shoe “alternatives” (that’s a fancy way of saying “dupe”) from brands like Brooks or Asics that are just as comfy and supportive, if not *more* so, than the Hokas themselves. Don’t get me wrong, Hokas are great, but sometimes you gotta explore your options, ya know?

But here’s where it gets a little murky. There’s a difference between a dupe and a straight-up counterfeit. A dupe is *inspired* by the designer shoe, but it’s not trying to pass itself off *as* the real thing. It might have a similar shape or use similar materials, but it’ll have its own branding, its own little quirks. Counterfeits, on the other hand, are illegal. They’re trying to trick you into thinking you’re buying the real deal, and that’s a big no-no.

Also, let’s be honest, sometimes the quality just isn’t there. I mean, you get what you pay for, right? That “Gucci-style loafer” might look the part online, but when you actually get it, it might be made of cardboard and glue. So, it’s kinda a gamble.

Personally? I’m a fan of finding a good dupe *if* it’s well-made and ethically sourced (try your best to make sure, anyway). I love the *idea* of designer shoes, but my student loans are not having it. Plus, I think it’s kinda fun to hunt for the hidden gems—the dupes that are actually better than the original!

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High Precision BOTTEGA VENETA Belt

So, first things first, that Intreccio thing? That’s Bottega’s signature, man. Instant recognition. You rockin’ that, people *know*. It’s like, the subtle way of saying, “Yeah, I got taste. And money. Don’t @ me.” But it’s classy, ya know? Not like screaming logo-mania. Thank god.

Now, personally, I’m a sucker for the minimal stuff. Gimme that buttery soft leather, that sleek buckle, and I’m good to go. No need for all the bells and whistles. Sometimes, less *is* more, especially when you’re talking about something you’re literally wearing around your dang waist! Plus, easier to match with outfits, which, let’s be honest, is half the battle.

And speaking of buying… Mytheresa? Saks OFF 5TH? Nordstrom? Options galore! Gotta love the internet. Just, uh, maybe don’t go bankrupt trying to snag one. I saw one place offering up to 70% off, which, *dude*, that’s a steal…probably. Just double-check it’s not some kinda knock-off, ’cause nobody wants to be caught wearin’ a fake. Embarrassing.

Oh, and guys, don’t think I forgot about you! Bottega Veneta belts for men are *fire*. Leather, suede, woven…reversable!? Okay, that’s kinda cool. Reversable is always a win. It’s like getting two belts for the price of… well, one *very expensive* belt. Still.

But, like, here’s my biggest pet peeve: buying directly from a brand’s website. “Your personal information will be collected and used…” Ugh. I get it, they need to process my order, but I always feel like I’m signing my soul away or something. Just gimme the dang belt, man!

Luxury Lookalike CHLOE Jewelry

So, like, you see Chloe, right? Chic, effortless, makes you wanna sell your kidney to afford a single freakin’ *button* from their collection. But, uh, bills gotta be paid, rent’s a beast, and honestly? My goldfish needs a bigger tank. Priorities, people!

That’s where the dupes (or, ahem, *inspired* pieces) come in. Amazon’s apparently swimming in them, which, honestly, doesn’t surprise me. You can find pretty much anything on Amazon these days, including a suspiciously cheap replica of the Mona Lisa, probably. Bulgari, Cartier… the whole shebang. I even saw something Van Vleef – which, if that’s a typo, it’s honestly kinda cute.

Now, I’m not gonna lie. Sometimes these “designer-inspired” things are, well, a bit dodgy. You know, the kind that turn your finger green faster than you can say “tarnished.” But! Every now and then, you stumble upon a gem (pun intended!). Something that *actually* looks decent and doesn’t feel like it’s going to disintegrate the moment you look at it wrong.

And Chloe? Oh man, Chloe bags, Chloe shoes, Chloe *everything*… the allure is real. This Chemena Kamali lady is doing something RIGHT with that brand. I saw something about a “Chloe Summer 2025 collection”?! Like, what?! I’m still trying to figure out what I’m wearing *tomorrow*!

But, back to the jewelry. I think the key is to be picky. Don’t just buy the first shiny thing you see. Read the reviews (even though you know half of them are probably fake, ugh). Look for materials that *sound* legit, even if they aren’t solid gold. And for the love of all that is holy, don’t expect a $15 ring to look identical to a $1500 one. I mean, come on.

I think the whole “dupe” thing is a bit of a guilty pleasure, tbh. Like, I know I *should* be saving up for the real deal, supporting the actual designers and all that jazz. But sometimes, you just need a little sparkle without completely bankrupting yourself. Plus, who’s gonna know the difference, really? Unless you’re hanging out with Anna Wintour, you’re probably safe.

Vintage Style Ferragamo Shoe

Okay, so Ferragamo, right? Classy. Like, Audrey Hepburn sipping tea classy. But *vintage* Ferragamo? That’s a whole other ballgame, baby. It’s not just about the brand, it’s about the history, the STORIES those shoes could tell. I mean, seriously, imagine walking around in something someone wore back in the day, maybe even to a swanky party!

I’ve been lurking around online, you know, doing the whole “research” thing (read: scrolling through eBay and drooling), and it’s kinda mind-blowing how much vintage Ferragamo stuff is still out there. Pumps, mostly, it seems, which, let’s be honest, is the epitome of Ferragamo, isn’t it? That sleek, timeless silhouette.

The big question, though, is dating these babies. It’s kinda like being a detective, trying to piece together the clues. The logo, the materials, the heel shape… it’s a whole thing! I saw this one forum post where someone was asking about resale value and…whew. It’s a gamble, right? Some stuff is going for a pretty penny, especially if it’s rare or in mint condition. Other things? Not so much.

Honestly, that’s part of the appeal, though. It’s like a treasure hunt. You could find something that’s worth a small fortune or just a really cool pair of shoes to rock. And sometimes, it’s just about the *look*, you know? Who cares if it’s not worth a million bucks if it completes your outfit and makes you feel like a boss?

I’ve seen some really cool examples online. Like, the other day I spotted these gorgeous velvet platforms (probably from the 70s? Maybe?), and I instantly imagined myself strutting down the street in them, feeling like a total queen. Maybe a slightly *clumsy* queen, considering how high they were, but still!

And then there’s the whole “handmade” aspect. A lot of the vintage stuff was, you know, actually *made* by hand. You can just feel the quality, the craftsmanship. It’s a world away from some of the mass-produced stuff you see today. (Not that *all* modern stuff is bad, of course! Don’t @ me!)

miu miu white purse

Anyway, if you’re on the hunt for a white Miu Miu purse, you’ve got options, babe! And trust me, the price point reflects the *Miu Miu-ness* of it all.

First off, you could hit up the actual Miu Miu website, obviously. They’ll have all the newest, fanciest stuff, like the Wander bag, which apparently gets reinvented every season. Matelassé Nappa leather? Sounds boujee, right? Probably costs more than my rent. But hey, “Design Meets Functionality!” or so they say. I mean, all purses are kinda functional, aren’t they? They hold your stuff. That’s literally the job.

Then, you’ve got the pre-loved route. Vestiaire Collective seems to have a decent selection of second-hand Miu Miu handbags – which, let’s be real, is probably the only way *I’m* ever gonna own one. Plus, you can feel good about being a little more eco-conscious, even though you’re still buying a designer bag. The guilt is slightly lessened, okay? And hey, sometimes you can find a real steal! Just watch out for fakes, ya know? Do your research.

Oh, and Stylight also has white Miu Miu bags. They’re advertising up to -44% off? Sounds tempting. But, like, always check the fine print. “Up to” can be misleading. It could be just one random bag nobody wants that’s 44% off, and everything else is still full price. Marketing, am I right?

I saw one mentioned called the “Chalk White Ivy Leather Bag”. Ooh, Ivy? Sounds kinda preppy, doesn’t it? I wonder if it has little ivy leaves embossed on it or something. I’m kinda picturing it with a tweed skirt and loafers. Or maybe I’m just having a weird fashion flashback.

And then there’s that “Nappa Leather Pocket Bag” that someone mentioned. Apparently, it’s “characterized by an extremely contemporary, cosmopolitan, and captivating design.” Which, translated, probably means it has a bunch of pockets. But hey, who *doesn’t* love pockets? I’m all about pockets.

guangzhou Noe

So, yeah, Guangzhou. Big city, super busy, lotsa commerce, apparently dating back ages. The texts I found just kept mentioning that, like it was super relevant to… I don’t even know what. Anyway, the first snippet mentioned ozone levels being measured up to 500 meters in the lower boundary layer, like someone was really keeping tabs on the air there. Probably ’cause it’s a megacity, ya know? All those cars and factories and whatnot.

Then there was this weird comparison with Zibo. Zibo? Never heard of it. But apparently, Guangzhou has a lot more “NOE days” during the warm season (59 ± 11, to be exact). Zibo’s probably less polluted, I guess. Makes sense.

And then things got *really* random. Punches, dies, pins… what? Oh, wait, it was about “Guangzhou One Pengrui” doing some fancy architecture thingy. Embedding nature and prioritizing resiliency. Sounds cool, I guess, but what’s that gotta do with NOE? Maybe they’re trying to offset the pollution with green roofs? Probably a drop in the bucket, honestly.

OH! And the Guangzhou Yixiaoshi Keji Youxian Gongsi… try saying *that* three times fast! It’s like some tech company established back in 2014, doing research and tech services in Panyu District. Again, totally random, right? I mean, I guess tech companies contribute to pollution indirectly, but still.

And the Park Hyatt? Okay, now we’re just talking luxury hotels. Nice place to stay, I bet, but I’m starting to think this whole NOE thing is getting lost in the shuffle.

Honestly, after reading all that, I’m still not entirely clear *why* Guangzhou NOE is such a big deal. Is it getting worse? Is it causing health problems? The texts just kind of… *exist*. It’s like they’re throwing random facts at a wall and hoping something sticks.

Luxury Lookalike BVLGARI Wallet

I mean, Bvlgari wallets? Gorgeous. That Serpenti clasp? *chef’s kiss*. But, uh, gorgeous also means *expensive*. Like, rent-money expensive. So, naturally, the market’s flooded with these… homages? Copies? Whatever you wanna call ’em.

And here’s where it gets tricky, right? Like, I saw this one the other day – looked legit. The leather *felt* nice, the stitching *seemed* good… even the dang snake head looked pretty convincing. But then I flipped it over, and the lining was, like, pilling already? And the zipper felt… crunchy. You know that feeling? Like it’s gonna break after, like, five uses. Total giveaway.

But! Not all “lookalikes” are created equal. Some are, like, surprisingly decent. I knew this girl, she had a, uh, “dupe” (that’s what the kids are calling ’em now, right?) and honestly, I was fooled for a good six months. It wasn’t until she accidentally dropped it in a puddle and the color started bleeding that I was like, “Aha! Gotcha!” (Sorry, Sarah. Still love ya).

So, like, what’s the point? Is it worth it? I dunno, honestly. Depends on what you’re going for. If you’re after the *status*, the bragging rights, the feeling of holding something truly luxurious… then yeah, probably save up for the real thing. There’s just something about that Bvlgari craftsmanship, you know? You can *feel* the difference.

But if you’re just after the *look*, and you’re willing to take a gamble, and maybe not be *too* precious about it… then a good “lookalike” might do the trick. Just do your research, read the reviews (if there are any!), and don’t expect it to last a lifetime. And for the love of all that is holy, *inspect that zipper*. A dodgy zipper is the ultimate tell.

Plus, let’s be real, you can get a decent leather wallet for a lot less than a dupe that’s *trying* to be a Bvlgari. Maybe a cute Kate Spade, or even something from, like, Etsy? Lots of cool, unique stuff out there that doesn’t pretend to be anything it’s not.

Designer Dupes GUCCI Scarf

I’ve been on the hunt, scrolling through endless websites and Amazon listings, trying to find that perfect Gucci-esque scarf that doesn’t break the bank. And let me tell ya, it’s a wild ride. Some of these “dupes” are straight-up tragic. Like, so bad they’re almost funny. But there *are* gems out there, you just gotta dig.

One thing I’ve noticed – the floral designs are where it’s at. Apparently, Gucci’s got this whole thing with floral patterns, especially inspired by their perfume boxes, according to some of the stuff I’ve been reading. So, if you’re after that Gucci vibe, keep an eye out for scarves with similar floral motifs. Think spring, think bright, think something that screams “I’m rich and I have a garden” even if you’re mostly just watering your succulents on your apartment balcony (no judgement!).

Now, finding a *perfect* Gucci dupe… that’s a tall order. You’re probably not gonna find something that’s 100% identical. But honestly, who cares? As long as it looks cute and feels good, right? I’d say aim for finding something that captures the essence of Gucci – the boldness, the colors, that little touch of “extra.” And hey, if someone asks if it’s real, just wink and say, “Maybe, maybe not.” Confidence is key, people!

I saw one dupe mentioned that was under $25! Seriously, under $25! It’s on Amazon, apparently. That’s insane. It makes you think, “Why even bother with the real thing?” (Okay, maybe I’m being a *little* dramatic, but still!).

The key thing is – don’t be afraid to experiment! Look at different patterns, materials, and price points. Read the reviews (seriously, read the reviews!). And most importantly, find something that you love and that makes you feel good. Because at the end of the day, that’s what fashion is all about, isn’t it? It’s about expressing yourself, even if it’s with a $20 dupe that *sort of* looks like a Gucci scarf.

guangzhou Aventus for Her

First off, let’s clear something up: I hear “Aventus” and I automatically think “pineapple and smoky birch.” So, going into “Aventus for Her,” I was kinda expecting, I dunno, *some* resemblance? Like, maybe a pineapple-rose combo or something? But nah. Not really. It’s its own thing.

The descriptions are all about “strong, confident, irresistible women” and “visionaries in everyday life.” Which, okay, marketing. But what does that *smell* like? Apparently, it smells like a fruity-floral-woody thing. We’re talking Egyptian green apple (fancy!), pink peppercorns, Indonesian patchouli (also fancy!), and Italian bergamot to kick things off. Then you get hit with roses, Bulgarian and Turkish, which, yeah, sounds pretty luxurious.

The thing is… it’s *fine*. It’s perfectly pleasant. It’s not bad. But does it scream “powerful, confident woman” to *me*? Nah, not really. It’s more like a well-dressed woman having a really good day. Which is still good! Just not… *Aventus* good, y’know?

And then there’s the whole “irresistible” claim. Look, scent is subjective, right? What one person finds intoxicating, another might find… meh. My personal take? It’s more “nice” than “OMG, I HAVE to have that!” Like, if someone was wearing it, I’d be like, “Oh, you smell nice!” I wouldn’t be chasing them down the street, demanding to know what they’re wearing.

Speaking of what they’re wearing… let’s talk about the price. It’s a Creed fragrance, so you *know* it’s not gonna be cheap. Is it worth the price tag? That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? For me…probably not. There are other fruity-floral-woody perfumes out there that give you similar vibes without costing an arm and a leg.

I guess, ultimately, I just don’t quite “get” the connection to Aventus for Him. I mean, I understand *why* they did it – capitalize on the popularity, create a matching set, all that jazz. But the scents are so different that it feels more like a marketing ploy than a genuine companion fragrance.

watch bands target

Okay, so, I’ve been on this quest, right? A watch band quest. My poor, faithful Timex (yeah, I’m basic) had its band disintegrate. It wasn’t pretty. And naturally, the first place my millennial brain goes is… Target. Cuz like, Target has *everything*, right?

So I start digging, and the Target website is… a lot. You got your Timex watch bands (duh), then BAM! Fitbit Versa 2 bands. Cool, cool. But wait, there’s more! They’re throwing in Men’s & Women’s *Watches* in the mix, promising Instacart delivery in an hour. Hold up, my dude. Are we talking just the *bands*, or the whole shebang? My brain’s starting to hurt.

Then Casio shows up. Classic. And suddenly, I’m supposed to be “looking cool” while shopping for a band? Pressure, Target, pressure!

Honestly, the sheer volume of “Shop Target for watch band you will love at great low prices. Choose from Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup plus free shipping on orders $35+” repeated across everything makes you wonder if they’re just running a really, *really* efficient (or maybe lazy?) marketing campaign. Like, come on, Target, mix it up a little! Throw in a “find your perfect wrist companion” or something. I’m just sayin’.

And then, outta left field, comes StrapsCo. Like, what? Are they a Target partner? Are they competition? The world may never know. But they’re promising “genuine leather bands, metal straps, one-piece, rubber, vintage, and more.” Vintage? I’m intrigued… but also slightly suspicious. Are we talking *actually* vintage or “vintage-inspired” from, like, five years ago? The devil’s in the details, people.

And finally, the Apple Watch section. Of course. “Smartwatch Bands: Apple Accessories.” Because Apple accessories are a whole different beast. They gotta have their own dedicated section, right? And yes, they have that same copy paste line.

Here’s the thing, though. I’m kinda drawn to the whole “Same Day Delivery, Drive Up or Order Pickup” thing. I mean, convenience is king (or queen, depending on the day). But, I gotta be real, browsing watch bands online is kinda… a crapshoot. You can’t *feel* the leather, you can’t see the actual color in good lighting, and you’re relying on potentially wonky product descriptions.

replicaworldwide.com

First off, the site itself? It’s kinda all over the place. You got “Shop Replica Designer Footwear” blaring at you, then BAM, a random PATEK PHILIPPE contact info block with an address in Shreveport, LA. Like, what even? It doesn’t exactly scream “high-end luxury replica dealer,” does it? I mean, Shreveport is cool and all, but… yeah.

And then you read the descriptions. “Our products are carefully made with great attention to detail, offering the look and feel of real…” Real what? They conveniently leave that blank! It’s like they’re *trying* to not explicitly say they’re selling knock-offs, but, c’mon, we all know what’s up. Plus, the grammar isn’t always, uh, perfect. Which, to be fair, happens to the best of us *cough*, but still kinda adds to the questionable vibe.

They also mention “classy YSL-inspired handbags.” Okay, “inspired” is a *real* generous way to put it. It’s a replica, dude. Just say it. And the fact that they’re so focused on YSL handbags kinda makes me wonder if they’re even good at replicating anything else.

Now, ScamAdviser apparently thinks they’re “legit and safe.” But, and this is a BIG but, ScamAdviser is just an algorithm. Algorithms can be wrong! I mean, I’ve seen algorithms recommend me cat videos when I clearly wanted dog videos. So, I take that with a grain of salt.

Ultimately, here’s my take: Replicaworldwide.com might *technically* be “legit” in the sense that they might actually ship you something. But is it going to be a quality replica? Probably not. Are you going to get ripped off? Maybe not completely, but you’re definitely not getting a Patek Philippe for the price of a Happy Meal.

lululemon replica pants

Look, let’s be real, Lulu is expensive. Like, ridiculously expensive. I mean, $100 for leggings? C’mon! So, naturally, the internet is flooded with “dupes” and “alternatives” – especially on Amazon. And some of them? Honestly, not bad.

I’ve seen people raving about the CRZ Yoga Naked Feel leggings as a Lulu Align dupe. Apparently, they’re comfy and hold up pretty well for like, a third of the price. Makes you wonder, right? Like, is Lululemon just charging for the name at this point? *shrugs* Probably a bit of both, tbh.

Then you get into the whole “spotting fake Lululemon” thing. Apparently, people are stressed about getting bamboozled. The articles say to check the logo, the tags, the fabric. I mean, yeah, that makes sense. You don’t want some cheap-o knock-off that falls apart after two washes. But honestly, who has the time to scrutinize every stitch? Just buy from a reputable seller, people! Or, you know, embrace the dupe life.

And it’s not just the ladies getting in on this action. Apparently, the Lululemon ABC pants are all the rage for guys – work, golf, whatever. But again, $$$! So, naturally, there are “off brand versions” floating around. My wife (bless her heart) actually *sent me* a video about them. LOL. I haven’t pulled the trigger yet, but the temptation is real. I mean, if they look good and feel good, who cares if they don’t have the little Lulu logo? Nobody I work with, that’s for sure.

Here’s the thing, though. Sometimes, you get what you pay for. A “dupe” might LOOK the part, but is it gonna perform like the real deal? Will it wick sweat as well? Will it last as long? I dunno. It’s a gamble. Maybe you get lucky, maybe you end up with saggy-butt leggings after a week.

Ultimately, I think it comes down to your priorities. Are you a die-hard Lulu loyalist? Then stick with the real thing. But if you’re on a budget (and let’s face it, most of us are) and you’re willing to take a chance, then go for the dupe! Just do your research, read the reviews, and don’t expect miracles. And hey, if you find a gem, let me know. My wallet will thank you.

buy ferragamo carmelo

First off, those shoes… they’re not exactly cheap, are they? I mean, I saw one listing for $1200! Yikes. But hey, if you’re ballin’ on a budget, maybe Netshoes has some deals going on. Tho, tbh, I haven’t checked them out myself, but the free shipping and installments sound pretty tempting ngl.

Now, the “Carmelo” thing… it gets a lil’ confusing. You got the shoe model “Carmelo,” obviously, but then you also got Carmelo Anthony, the basketball player. Don’t get them mixed up! Unless you *really* wanna dress like Melo on the court, which, hey, you do you. But probably not the best look for a formal occasion, ya know?

And then there’s the whole “Tramezza” thing. That’s a construction style, basically meaning high-end. Expect to pay a premium for that fancy stitching and craftsmanship. Is it worth it? Depends. Are you the kinda person who appreciates a well-made shoe that’ll last for years, or are you more of a “wear ’em till they fall apart” kinda person? No judgement here, just being real. I’m more of a “wear em till they fall apart” kind of person personally lol.

Speaking of buying… eBay might be your friend. You can sometimes find used ones in good condition for way cheaper. Just be careful, ya know? Make sure the seller is legit. Read the descriptions closely. Look for “Carmelo Tramezza” specifically if that’s what you’re after. And for the love of god, check the size! Seriously, nothing’s worse than getting excited about a deal only to find out they’re three sizes too small, which sadly, happened to me once.

Oh, and I stumbled upon a Poshmark listing too. “Salvatore Ferragamo lace up shoe great condition.” Vague, right? Always ask for more pics! Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit either, especially on used stuff.

Inspired by BALENCIAGA

The thing that’s, like, *fascinating* about Balenciaga is where he drew his inspiration from. It wasn’t just pulling stuff outta thin air, y’know? He looked at, like, *old stuff*. I mean, seriously old. We’re talking Spanish painting old. Diego Velázquez old. Remember *Las Meninas* from art history class? Yeah, *that* Velázquez. Supposedly, that masterpiece inspired Balenciaga. Whoa.

And it wasn’t just Velázquez. He apparently had a thing for historical styles in general. That “Infanta” gown? Straight outta portraits of those young Spanish princesses. It’s like, he was taking history and, like, *remixing* it into something totally new and couture. Which is kinda mind-blowing, if you think about it.

But here’s where it gets, like, a *little* messy (and where *my* opinion comes in, cuz why not?). Because, fast forward to 2022… and Balenciaga’s designs are… well, let’s just say they’re sparking some *conversations*. I saw something about a redesign of classic Paris High Tops. Some questioned designs, they called it. Hmmm.

Now, I’m not going to pretend I’m a fashion expert or anything. But, like, is it still “inspired”? Or is it just… appropriating and slapping a hefty price tag on it? I dunno. Maybe it’s me being judgy. Maybe Balenciaga (the *current* Balenciaga, not Cristóbal himself, obvs) is pushing boundaries and challenging us to see things differently. Or maybe it’s just… trying too hard to be edgy. I honestly can’t decide.

What I *do* know is that the OG Balenciaga, the guy who was pioneering in the 20th century, had an eye for style that still resonates. Those evening creations with their crazy forms and fabrics? Still amazing.

ysl kiss and blush 10 dupe

So, the hunt for a dupe begins! And let me tell you, the internet rabbit hole is *deep*. I’ve been scouring forums, blogs, and even that weird corner of YouTube where people whisper about makeup. It’s a JOURNEY.

Apparently, the YSL Baby Doll Kiss & Blush line is a tricky one to dupe perfectly. The texture is that weird, creamy-moussey thing that’s kinda hard to replicate. Some people say it’s like the YSL Creme de Blush, but…more fluid? I don’t know, I haven’t tried *that* one. My makeup budget only stretches so far!

I saw someone mention the NYX blush in Pinched being a dupe for NARS Orgasm, and while I love NYX (hello, drugstore queen!), I’m not sure how that helps us with the Nude Insolent situation. It’s a starting point, I guess? Maybe it has a similar shimmer or undertone? I’m grasping at straws here, people.

And then there’s the whole “finding the right color” thing. Nude Insolent is supposed to be a kinda natural, almost peachy-nude. But “nude” means different things on different skin tones, right? Like, my nude is probably your “light tan” and her nude is probably someone else’s “deep bronze.” Makeup is HARD.

I even stumbled upon some chatter about YSL Pink Hedoniste (08), but that’s pink! We’re looking for nude, people, *nude*! Get it together, internet! (Okay, okay, I’m sure Pink Hedoniste is lovely, but that’s not the point right now.)

Honestly, I haven’t found the *perfect* dupe yet. But I’m thinking the key is to look for something with that creamy texture (maybe a cream blush stick?), and a slightly peachy-nude shade. Maybe mix a couple of cheaper blushes together? That’s what I usually end up doing anyway.

I saw someone mention that YSL *might* be coming out with a more fluid version of their Creme de Blush, so… maybe wait for that? Or just bite the bullet and buy the Nude Insolent. Ugh. Decisions, decisions.

EU Stock LOEWE Wallet

First off, StockX? I dunno, it seems kinda…hypebeasty. Like, good if you wanna flip it, maybe? But for actually *using* a Loewe wallet? Feels a bit… extra. Paying a “market price” when you just wanna keep your cards safe? Hmm. Debatable.

Then you’ve got the descriptions… Soft grained calfskin this, pebble grain calfskin that. Honestly, does anyone *really* know the difference until you’re actually holding it? I mean, I *think* I prefer the soft grained? Sounds nicer, doesn’t it? More buttery. Mmm, buttery Loewe… I’m getting distracted.

The color options are a trip too. “Light Oat/Honey”? Sounds delish, like a breakfast cereal. “Rosemary/Tan”? Now we’re talking spice rack meets safari. And then there’s just plain ol’ “Black”. Can’t go wrong with black, I guess. Safe. Boring? Maybe. Depends on your vibe, innit?

Harrods, bless their posh little hearts, are always an option. Free UK delivery over £100? Tempting. But… do I really *need* another excuse to buy something from Harrods? My bank account is already weeping.

And the types! Trifold, zip-around, vertical, compact… it’s a wallet zoo! Honestly, I’m a trifold kinda gal. Something satisfying about folding it, you know? Plus, the Anagram trifold in pebble grain… *drool*.

But here’s the thing. The *real* question: are Loewe wallets actually worth the hype? They’re undeniably gorgeous, and the whole “handcrafted in Spain” thing is pretty cool. It’s a statement piece, for sure. But are they, like, *amazingly* functional? Probably not more so than, say, a decent leather wallet from a smaller brand. You’re paying for the Loewe name, let’s be real.

rep Love in White

First, there’s this Zara perfume dupe list. Apparently, they’re trying to copy Creed’s Love in White? Which is kinda, like, the holy grail of fresh, floral scents for some people. And then it’s vegan and cruelty-free. Cool!

Then there’s this random mention of “REP含义揭秘,” which, uh, is Chinese (I think?) and seems to be about reputation, possibly in a gaming context. How that ties into perfume, I have no frickin’ clue. Maybe it’s saying the “rep” of Love in White is good? A good rep? Sounds possible.

And then we’ve got Rep. Mia Love and her husband, Jason Love. *Completely* unrelated, I’m assuming. Unless they’re, like, secretly obsessed with this perfume, which… who knows? Politicians are weird.

Oh, and Reddit chimes in saying it’s an ode to peace and unity, with hand-picked ingredients from all over the place. So, it’s got this global vibe. Fancy!

And finally, there’s Faouzia (whoever that is), saying it’s the scent of spring. Okay, that makes sense. Floral, fresh, springy… I’m picturing white dresses and picnics and… yeah.

So, “rep Love in White”? My take? It’s a mess of a phrase, but basically, it’s all about the *reputation* of Creed’s Love in White. It’s got a rep for being high-quality, sophisticated (the bottle design is supposedly elegant, blah blah blah), versatile, and spring-like. It’s got a pretty good ‘rep’, yeah!

Here’s the thing, though: are Zara dupes *really* as good as the real deal? That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? I’m always skeptical of dupes. They’re usually… well, dupes! But if they can nail the vibe of Love in White without harming animals, hey, more power to ’em. I feel like thats what people really want, a good dupe that isn’t harmful!

Brandless Van Cleef & Arpels

But let’s be real, for a sec. It’s expensive. Like, *really* expensive. I saw a bracelet the other day that cost more than my car. MY CAR! Which, okay, my car isn’t exactly a Bentley, but still.

So, what if you could get… the *idea* of Van Cleef, without, y’know, selling a kidney?

That’s kinda what I’m thinking about here. Like, what if we just stripped away the brand name, the fancy boutiques, the celebrity endorsements… and just focused on the *style*? Could you do a “brandless” Van Cleef?

I mean, think about it. The Alhambra design is pretty distinctive. You see those clover shapes, and you *know* what it’s inspired by, even if there’s no VCA logo stamped on it. It’s all about the shape and the materials, right? Maybe some mother-of-pearl, a little onyx, some gold-colored metal…

And, I gotta say, I’ve seen some pretty decent… uh, *inspired* pieces out there. Let’s just say that. Not knockoffs, exactly (because those are illegal, obviously!), but pieces that capture the Van Cleef vibe without actually *being* Van Cleef.

The thing is, I think people are increasingly savvy about this stuff. They want the look, but they don’t necessarily want to pay the crazy markup. They see how resale sites like The RealReal are doing gangbusters, with Van Cleef sales up like crazy. That shows demand! But it also shows people are looking for deals, even on luxury.

And honestly, who can blame them? A lot of these luxury brands, they’re charging for the name, the image, the *feeling* of exclusivity. But is a feeling worth thousands of dollars? Sometimes, maybe. But other times… maybe not.

I’m not saying everyone should go out and buy “brandless” Van Cleef. If you can afford the real deal, and you want the real deal, go for it! But I just think it’s an interesting question: can you capture the essence of a luxury brand without the brand itself? Is it possible to democratize luxury, even just a little bit?

Discreet Packaging LOEWE Hat

See, I was reading this article – or, actually, a bunch of blurbs online – about discreet packaging. You know, the kind where they hide what’s *actually* in the box? Like, you order something… ahem… *personal*, and it doesn’t arrive plastered with pictures of, you know, *that*. It just looks like a boring box. Makes sense, right?

And then I saw something about a LOEWE hat at Neiman Marcus. A freaking *bucket hat*. And my brain just kinda went, “Woah, hold up. Discreet packaging… LOEWE bucket hat… does anyone *really* need discreet packaging for a bucket hat?!”

I mean, think about it. You order this super swanky, probably-costs-more-than-my-rent LOEWE bucket hat. Are you *ashamed* of owning it? Is it, like, contraband designer wear? Are you trying to sneak it past your fashion-police mother-in-law? Probably not, right?

But then again… maybe some people ARE super secretive about their fashion choices. Maybe they don’t want their neighbors to know they dropped a small fortune on a raffia bucket hat. Maybe they’re trying to maintain a low profile, you know, “Oh, this old thing? Found it at the flea market for five bucks.”

Okay, okay, I’m getting ahead of myself.

The point is, discreet packaging is all about trust, right? And privacy. The article thingies I read were going on about preserving “sanctity of packaging” – which, honestly, sounds a bit much for a box, even a box holding a fancy hat. But I get it. You want to feel like your business is your business.

But back to the LOEWE hat. I’m picturing it arriving in this plain brown box, maybe with some nondescript label like “Home Goods” or something. And then you open it up, and BAM! Luxury raffia bucket hat. The sheer *contrast* of it all! It’s almost… amusing.

Maybe that’s the real point here. Maybe discreet packaging isn’t just about privacy. Maybe it’s about the *reveal*. The unboxing experience. The surprise of finding something fabulous hidden inside something so utterly ordinary. It’s like a little secret, just for you.

Brandless Dolce & Gabbana Scarf

I mean, I get the appeal of Brandless. They were all about cutting out the middleman and giving you, like, decent stuff without the inflated price tag just because some fancy designer slapped their logo on it. I even remember reading somewhere (maybe it was a Reddit thread? Who knows where I find these things) that they were trying to start a whole “consumer-activist movement.” Which, good for them, I guess.

And Dolce & Gabbana? Uh, that’s pretty much the *opposite* of that vibe. Loud, proud, screaming “I’M RICH!” Italian luxury. So, a “Brandless Dolce & Gabbana Scarf” is basically an oxymoron. It’s like a vegan butcher shop or a silent disco with a foghorn.

Okay, so let’s entertain this for a minute. Hypothetically, what would a Brandless Dolce & Gabbana Scarf even *be*? Would it be…

* A plain, unbranded scarf that’s secretly made in the same factory as D&G scarves? Kind of sneaky, actually. Like finding out your generic cereal is just re-packaged name-brand stuff. I’d low-key buy that.

* A scarf that’s explicitly *inspired* by D&G designs but without any logos or trademarks? So, maybe leopard print without the “Dolce & Gabbana” plastered all over it? I guess that could work. But where’s the fun in that? The whole point of D&G is the over-the-top-ness!

* A completely unrelated scarf that Brandless is just randomly calling a “Dolce & Gabbana” scarf for some ironic reason? Okay, now we’re getting into performance art territory. Which, honestly, I wouldn’t put past them.

The problem, of course, is that Brandless went belly up a while ago. Remember reading about that? Something about not being able to compete with Amazon and the logistics being a nightmare. So, this whole thing is kind of a moot point.

But, thinking about it, maybe that’s the *real* point. Maybe a “Brandless Dolce & Gabbana Scarf” isn’t a real product at all. Maybe it’s a *statement*. A commentary on consumerism! A metaphor for the fleeting nature of brands! Or, maybe I’m just thinking too hard.