Inspired by a recent shoe purchase, I decided to round up a handful of my current favourite designer shoe dupes floating around. As much as I love to invest – not only in my clothing staples, but also in my accessories – some times it’s just not feasible or practical to do so. Instead, I look to brands which offer high quality alternatives that’ll give me that luxury look for a lot less.
Below, I’ve spied 13 pairs of shoes where you can get an affordable – but still excellent quality – version on the high street.
Jimmy Choo bing embellished mules (also here)
The shoe that really kicked this all off are the bing embellished mules from Jimmy Choo. No ifs or buts about it, I adore these shoes. They’re super snazzy; a great way to effortlessly elevate an outfit. I was particularly drawn to the nude pair, for their leg-lengthening effect. Kurt Geiger does an excellent affordable alternative (also here or here); I opted for the nude apricot pair, and have to say, I actually think I prefer these to the designer version. They’re leather – rather than patent – and the embellishment seems to have a bit more pizazz. So far the only place I’ve had an opportunity to wear them is our living room, but I’m looking forward to taking these for a spin the first chance I get.
Mansur Gavriel slingback pumps
I first mentioned these Mansur Gavriel slingback pumps in this video. I’d had my eye on them for some time, but after deciding to go in-store and try them on, I concluded that they weren’t remarkable enough to warrant the designer price tag. I was pretty excited when I spotted Everlane were launching a slingback version of their editor heel. These tick all the boxes for me, and are near enough to the original. Perhaps even better? The only change I’d make would be an adjustable strap at the heel. I love the squared off vamp, and these are just an all round classic, basic piece. I went for these in my usual Everlane size, a US9.5. The elastic might feel a little snug at first, but it does give over time with wear.
Fendi knitted combat boots (also here or here)
Another example where I actually think I prefer the dupe version a little more… My wardrobe has been lacking a pair of flat boots, and while I love these knitted combat boots from Fendi, I don’t love the price tag. They also have that obvious logo-mania vibe with the Fendi ‘F’ emblazoned around the ankle. I think will be a hit or miss depending on your preferences. Tony Bianco do an excellent alternative which has plain knitted sections. These are currently on my wishlist for the A/W season.
Chanel “dad” sandals
Ugly sandals seem to be one of those trends which come back in every year without fail. Currently on the hot list are the dad sandals from Chanel, which you can get in boucle, leather, or rubber. They kinda look a little like an orthopaedic shoe, but I like it. They’re near impossible to get your hands on right now; but also incredibly expensive for a shoe that you might tire of by next year. For a more affordable version, I really love this pair from Atmos&Here. They’re a quilted leather, and the price is great too!
Chanel two-tone pumps
I don’t think I go one of these designer dupes posts without mentioning the iconic Chanel two-toned pumps. To me, these are classic. A shoe which is season-less and more importantly, timeless. My beloved Vaneli slingbacks are still a strong go-to in my closet, though the low block heel isn’t for everyone. I spotted that they recently released the same shoe in a high heel version (also here and here), for those wanting a bit of extra height. Dune also have a fantastic affordable dupe, which comes in a white/black version if you are looking for something a little different.
Amina Muaddi Begum slingback heels (also here)
Perhaps equally as spectacular as the Jimmy Choo mules are the Amina Muaddi Begum slingbacks. These are another one of those impossible-to-get-your-hands on shoes. I love the exaggerated starburst embellishment on the toe – it’s so extra. For a more budget-friendly option, I love these ones from Dune. At the moment they’re sold out of the black and cream, but the brightly coloured options are still available if you want a real statement shoe.
The Row is one of those brands I often look to as a style guide; it probably goes without saying that most of the clothing is a little too “rich” for me. Their footwear is just as minimal, but still has that special luxe feel. I really loved the look of these loafers, and think if you’re after a comfortable investment shoe that you can wear not only during lockdown, but out and about after, then these are it. For a more affordable pair, that comes in a few different colours, I figured you can’t go wrong this option from Seed Heritage.
I was pretty excited to finally snag a pair of slingback flats from Dior – pre-loved – last year, and they’ve been such a delight to wear. Their latest iteration of this shoe has a netted textile, and a slightly more subtle logo on the strap. I’ve seen a few inspired versions of these shoes, but by far my favourite has to be this pair from Jeffrey Campbell. Alternatively these Billini flats are a great option, and they come in a high heel version too if that’s your preference.
Saint Laurent Nu Pieds sandals (also here or here)
Again, another shoe I’ve mentioned before in these posts, and I finally decided to invest in. While I can wholeheartedly recommend the designer version, they come with an eye-wateringly high price tag. If you’re not lucky enough to pick up a pair on sale like I did, then you may like this dupe version from Atmos&Here. They’re a little more graphic with the contrasting sole, but I love the sharp squared off toe, and the slightly larger interwoven strap across the foot.
Bottega Veneta heeled mules (also here)
Bottega has been the brand of the season since Daniel Lee was signed on as Creative Director. He essentially breathed new life into this heritage brand, and the humble mule (in addition to the pouch bag) were the vehicle for the brand’s rising star. The designer version is much easier to get your hands on now, but there’s quite a few “inspired” versions out there if you don’t want to break the bank. Some of my favourites include these woven ones from Dune (which also come in a flat version); this pair from Topshop; these Jeffrey Campbell ones; or alternatively for something a bit less obvious, I loved this take on the style from & Other Stories.
Bottega Veneta strappy heeled sandals (also here)
The other Bottega shoe which seems to really be making the rounds at the moment is this strappy heeled sandal. There’s a certain minimalistic 90s style vibe to this sandal, which is really on-trend right now. Jeffrey Campbell again do an excellent dupe, if you’re after that look for a lot less.
Manolo Blahnik maysale mules (also here or here)
The Maysale Mules from Manolo Blanik have been on my wishlist for at least a year now. I’m a sucker for a pointed toe shoe (makes your legs look longer), and the buckle detail across the foot is simple, yet effective. I’m hoping out for these in a nude suede (preferably on sale…), but as an affordable alternative, Sam Edelman have this very similar pair (also here).
Hermes Oran sandals
I wanted to wrap up this post with a dupe for the Hermes Oran sandals. These to me are another timeless staple; a simple, classic design that isn’t loud or flashy (despite the “H” across the foot). While I haven’t put this dupe to the test, I’ve only heard good things about Dune’s take on this designer shoe. They also have this super sweet heeled version, too!
