My top 10 designer dupes for the summer

I’m constantly torn between wanting loads of clothes, wanting to travel and feeling obliged to save for a house. And because I’m a responsible adult now (I try), option 1 has taken a back seat.

I went through a period when I bought one or two designers pieces (or as I like to call it ‘investment pieces’). They were items that weren’t trend pieces but could stand the test of time. I then moved to London. Spending upwards of £700 on a bag or pair of shoes just doesn’t make sense to me right now. 

Introducing my top 10 dupes for the summer…

A dupe is an item inspired by a designer piece and often replicates similar features. There are some good dupes out there – some even look like the real thing. So, if you’re saving money or just don’t want to spend a lot of money on an item, dupes are the way forward. 

But do watch out, there are some crazy bad dupes out there. I will never forget the time I was in China and saw ‘Gucci’ spelt like ‘Gussi’ and the vendor at the stand actually wanted money for that. The cheek. 

So, to save you from the shock I went through when seeing 'Gussi', I created my top 10 doppelgängers to add to your wish list.

          The swimsuit 

The New Look take on the LUISAVIAROMA is the perfect statement piece for those lazy days at the pool. On a side note: why is this so pretty?

The pair of flats

If you’re looking for a pair of flats, look no more. 

Instead of buying the £540 Gucci leather Horsebit loafers, so many retailers do the black flats with the metal details.  Try Topshop, ASOS, or Mango for a patent finish. I have certainly maximised my wear with these shoes. Pair of jeans and a nice top? I’ll throw my Gucci dupes on. Summery dress? I’ll throw my Gucci dupes on. Taking out the bins? I’ll throw my Gucci dupes on.

The belt

Is it just me or does it seem like every blogger/instagrammer has the £320 Gucci belt? I love a good belt; it automatically makes an outfit look put together. River Island offer an identical version for a fraction of the price.  

The Classic 

Ever since I could remember, I’ve always wanted a Chanel quilted bag. It is still one of those pieces I will consider buying as the timeliness flap bag has increased its average value by circa 140% over the last 5 years.
If that’s not clever investment, I don’t know what is.
However, until I’m ready (financially and emotionally) to spend thousands on a bag, I will stick for the a faux-leather quilted cross body bag for now. My favourites include Amazon and this take on the boy bag( eBay came through) 

 The shoes

When I worked at Harrods in the summer during my 2nd and 3rd year of university, I used to walk past the Valentino section and think ‘one day’. At the time, when I wanted something similar nowhere seemed to stock anything, but now they’re everywhere. I eventually settled for a pair from Missguided, bought for £25 at the time (they’re £15 now)

The bag

Another one. The Chloé 'Faye' bag retails at £525 and is designed to capture, the girl on the go look. Topshop also captures that look at a mere £25. 

The espadrilles

I have an issue with white. It’s probably down to the fact that I am a very clumsy person. So, spending £500 on a pair of white Chanel espadrilles makes little to no sense for me. So, I found some near matches at Primark & Topshop 

The wedge 

Keeping on the theme of espadrilles, it’s either the Chloe espadrille for around £500 or these Steve Madden beauties for below £30.

The shades 

Celine Sunglasses are the definition of extra! And certainly, have that extra price tag at £400. So, let’s all take a moment to admire the Shade Renegade take on Celine. 

The day dress 

Everything about the Réalisation par Alexandra is beautiful. And this beautiful design has bred lots of dupes both on the high street and online. This Silk Fred one gives it a good run for it's money a.k.a it's a pretty good dupe. 

 Mx