You probably know my mantra by now, good quality comes at every price. It’s knowing what to look for, that’s the hard part. Sometimes it’s not just quality that we’re looking for, but certain design details. Perhaps a more affordable version of a luxe shoe that’s the style du jour of the moment. So for those you like me, have champagne taste on a beer budget, I’m once again rounding up all the best dupes or designer-inspired shoes from brands like Bottega Veneta, to By Far, Amina Muaddi, and The Row.
Saint Laurent Tribute Slides
Let’s start out with a fan favourite (of mine); a dupe for the Saint Laurent tribute slides. There’s so different iterations of these, but I thought this ankle strap version from ASOS was about as close as you’ll get without splurging on the real thing.
Personally, I’m a big fan of this vintage-inspired sandal. Whether it’s a slide (like I have), or one which is a bit more secure on the foot, I don’t think it’s going to go out of style any time soon.
The Row Fara Knit Boots
There was one item on my A/W wardrobe wishlist that I was really keen to get my hands on; a great pair of flat ankle boots. The problem was, that my tastes were a little out of my budget. I had my sights set on The Row Fara Knit Boots, which come in at just a little over the $1K mark. While I’ll often indulge my whimsies, during a year where we’re trying to save, it felt a little extravagant.
So I set my sights on finding a more affordable alternative, that held up to my high expectations of quality. And I find it. These Porte & Paire boots which aren’t a far cry from the original from The Row. On the even more affordable side, I recently came across these ones from Forever New. Not leather, but they still look durable and well made; great if you prefer a vegan leather shoe, or wanted an option which wouldn’t break the bank.
Amina Muaddi Gilda Crystal Sandals
A seriously glitzy shoe – perfect for those who are seeing some sense of normality return. These would be great for a black tie event; a summer soiree; a wedding… Combined with the sculpted geometric heel, it’s a total stand out. One of the best dupes I spotted come from Tony Bianco. They come in a couple of metallic options too; I’d consider those a good neutral. Perfect to work back with any colour in your closet.
ATP Atelier Rosa Sandals
The Rosa sandal has been around for quite a number of years now. The exaggerated curved cut out being the distinguishing feature. Absolutely minimal in appearance, yet the type of sandal that could elevate a basic outfit. For something a little more subdued, I think that this toe post sandal from Everlane is a good alternative. Only thing to keep in mind with either of these sandals? They’re not going to provide you with much support, as both have a flat leather sole.
Chanel Two-Tone Slingbacks
My Vaneli two-tone pumps still take the cake as the best affordable alternative to the Chanel ones. But, I can’t help but keep my eye out for other options. I recently spied these ones from Atmos & Here, which feel a little spunky with the lizard-effect leather at the toe. A point of difference to most other dupes I’ve spotted.
At any rate, this is one of those shoes that you can’t go wrong with. Often, I like to buy something that’s designer-inspired, just to see if it’s something I actually wear often. For me, this was one of those such buys. Still waiting for my dupes to well and truly bite the dust before considering spending on the real thing.
Bottega Veneta Raffia Mules
Bottega has really been leading the pack when it comes to designer “it” shoes. The latest iteration is a woven raffia design, the strap of which is twisted across the foot. These scream summer to me, and I know for a fact that the designer version is quite *noisy* to walk around in. If you love the look but don’t want to break the bank, then Tony Bianco have you covered. LOVE the chocolate brown hue too.
If you’re more a fan of the woven leather style, then Vince Camuto and Marc Fisher are a good starting point for dupes. Having owned shoes from both brands, I can really speak to the quality.
By Far Tanya Mules
I had to quickly refer back to my emails to see when I purchased these mules… two years ago, and it’s a style that is style going strong. Not hard to see why. That barely there sandal style is incredibly flattering, yet the low block heel makes this a walkable style. If I were to have my time over, I’d probably have chosen to buy them in leather over patent, just as they can rub a little. I spotted two great dupes. The first is this leather pair from AERE. They come in black or off-white, both pared back options which would be a great addition to a minimal wardrobe. Or if you love the nude patent effect, then this pair from Billini – on sale – is a near match.
Bottega Veneta Lug Sole Boots
Another Bottega shoe style which has become really popular? The lug sole boot. And they’re not the only ones. This type of chunky-soled shoe trend has also been pretty ubiquitous at Prada this season. With a high shaft, and big chunky sole, these aren’t going to be for everyone. But, they’re practical. And, can be an interesting shoe to have in your closet if you like to play around with proportions. Again, there are lots of options out there, but the first two I spotted? These ones from Alias Mae, which come in a few different colours. As well as this pair from AERE, which like the designer iteration, has that super chunky sole.
Gucci Princetown Loafers
Still as classic as ever, are the Gucci loafers. I decided to spend on the designer version last year, and while I still stand by the point that I don’t think you need to, I do love them. These Sam Edelman loafers have continued to serve me well, and this pair from Atmos & Here are also a good match.
If you prefer the backless Princetown loafer, I thought that this pair of faux leather loafers from Charles & Keith were a cute alternative. I like that the hardware has an aged effect to it, and I especially love the colour.
Valentino Garavani Roman Stud Sandals
Studs are still going strong at Valentino Garavani, but the past few seasons the look has gone from the dainty rockstud, to the chunky roman stud. And I thought that these roman stud slides from the brand made a bit of a bold statement, if you liked embellishment on your shoes. A more affordable alternative are these from Steve Madden. They have that same large stud embellishment, but an extra strap across the foot – which I have to admit… I think I prefer!
LOQ Roma Sandals
I really love a good strappy sandal. And recently the LOQ Roma Sandals caught my eye. I love that they’re barely there, but have a low block heel which is walkable. Fancy, but not too fancy. If you’re looking for a more accessible – and more affordable – option, then these ones from ASOS are my pick. I actually recently added them to my wardrobe, as I was unable to track down the LOQ version in my size at the time. If you like a bit of colour, they also come in an olive green.
Marni Crossover Strap Dad Sandals
The dad sandal trend seems to still be far from over. Perhaps a reflection of the times, as we lean into a more casual life. Marni’s a brand I’ve long associated with this type of chunky sandal silhouette; it’s been more than a decade since I first added an embellished thick soled pair to the brand to my wardrobe wishlist. I know these won’t be to everyone’s taste, but I’ve seen dupes for these Marni crossover dad sandals everywhere. AERE have a few different colours, in addition to a linen textured pair (great if you love wearing earthy neutrals), otherwise also like this option from Tony Bianco as another affordable choice.
By Far Kaia Sandals
Wrapping up this post with a dupe for a pair of shoes I added to my wardrobe earlier this year; the By Far Kaia sandal. The 90s have been making a comeback for a while now, and I love this take on that barely there strappy sandal. Especially the squared off toe, and kitten heel detail. Safe to say it’s been a while since I’ve had my 10cm high heels on rotation. For a more affordable alternative, I’d look to these ones from Sol Sana. They have a contrast wooden heel which is a nice point of difference, and they’re on sale, too.
