10 Designer Trends I'm Eyeing & Their Dupes
Finds that will make you second guess your designer purchases.
I want to preface this by saying that I am SO against original designs being ripped off by other brands. So that’s definitely not what we’ll be talking about here. This is more so about trends that some designers are absolutely killing, and more affordable alternatives because I do have to say, there’s no need to always splurge. Don’t get me wrong, I love my investment pieces, but these days, there are SO many good dupes out there that are just as chic, high quality, and a fraction of the price. I’ve also been seeing so many people on TikTok making videos about designer purchases they regret making, which honestly inspired me to write this. So whether you’re looking to test out a trend before committing or just want a look for less, I’ve rounded up 10 designer items I’m contemplating and their dupes that are definitely worth considering.
Woven & Raffia Bags
With spring and summer right around the corner, we’re going to be seeing woven and raffia bags everywhere. And honestly, I couldn’t be more excited. There’s just something about a raffia bag that makes any outfit feel effortlessly chic and SO warm weather coded—whether you’re heading to the beach, running errands, or dressing up a breezy summer look. Prada, Celine, and Loewe make popular ones (justifiably so) but there are so many amazing alternatives that give the same vibe for less.
Like my Janessa Leoné bag with the built in hat holder straps that I literally wear ALL THE TIME. I have it in the black and natural colors, but they also just dropped it in this gorgeous chocolate brown. Mark & Graham has a stunning one with leather trim that you can actually personalize with your initials (we all know I love a monogram) and J.Crew has a super chic option for UNDER $200.
Leather Slides
Sure, I have a pair (or two) of the Hermès Oran Sandals that I have definitely gotten good use out of and still love, but honestly there are SO many leather slides out there this season that I’m obsessed with. Pairs like this super sleek, minimalistic Raye slide and these Reformation twist flat sandals have definitely been catching my eye.
Also, let’s be real—the cool-girl sandal game has shifted. The sporty, ultra-luxurious Hermès Chypre Sandals are quickly taking over as the new must-have. I have a pair from Chanel that gives the same vibe BUT if you love the look but don’t want to splurge, this ALLSAINTS pair and this other pair from Jenni Kayne are great options, too.
Loafers, Loafers and More Loafers
I’ve been seeing the Chanel Interlocking CC Loafers everywhere. It kind of feels like they’re even starting to outshine the iconic Chanel ballet flats in popularity. Don’t get me wrong, they’re so chic—the perfect mix of classic and cool—but… do I need them? Debatable. Loafers are such a staple, and while these are undeniably gorgeous, there are so many amazing pairs that give the same sleek, polished vibe without the hefty price tag.
Whether you go for a pop of color like this maroon pair from Sézane or a more understated, neutral option like these gorg Freda Salvador loafers (which btw comes in a ton of other colors, too) or this perfect chocolate brown pair from Jenni Kayne, you can totally get the look for less.
Chic Square Frames
If you know me, you know that I literally always have sunglasses on me. My Celine, Bottegas, Tom Ford… you name it. But lately? I’ve actually been reaching for my KREWE, Garrett Leight, lowercase nyc pairs even more.
They’re just as chic, super high-quality, and honestly, I don’t have to stress about them as much. I love a good investment pair, but these have been my go-to’s lately—and trust me, there are so many stylish options out there that don’t come with the designer price tag.
Simple White Tanks
The tiny embroidered logo detail on basic white tanks like the super popular ones from Loewe and Prada tanks is what makes them so expensive… and honestly, I don’t know if it’s worth it. Yes, designer pieces are often amazing quality, but you can find great quality tanks for a fraction of the price.
Three of my all-time favorite white tanks are from Reformation, Agolde, or Éterne tank. All fit like a glove, a quarter of the price of some of the most popular designer tanks and you’ll own it forever.
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