This or That
Expensive designer brands make some beautifully designed items, which many of us cannot afford (or don’t want) to buy. In this blog, I will show you how certain classic designs can be found in a less expensive version. So, if you love the style but not the price, you can still get what you want. I am not talking about knock offs from China. These are quality well made products at a more affordable price point.
Bags
The first bag is a Bottega Veneta that costs $1,800 vs. the Mansur Gavriel bag for $545. While the Mansur Gavriel is still not cheap, it is significantly more affordable.
Here is another Bottega bag coming in at around $4,000 vs. a very similar bag from Anthropologie for $128.
Below is the Mach & Mach bag for over $1,000 vs the Self Portrait purse for $575.
The Cult Gaia rhinestone clutch comes in at $368 vs the Anthropologie clutch that is $160. Not as dramatically different in price, but still significant.
The Loewe tote costs around $1200 vs. the J. Crew for $118. You will not get the name on the straps (some may consider that a plus), but the tote and strap styles are very comparable.
Shoes
Gucci Horse bit square shoe goes for $900 vs. the 8 by Yoox leather horsebit flat for $110.
These are the very popular Mach & Mach shoes. They come in many different color options. Vs. this similar style heel from Anthropologie for a much better price.
The classic Chanel shoe look is made by practically every company. I posted here the Steve Madden flats which I think are great shoes at a great value. You will not get the Chanel logo, but you will get the same overall look.
Here again is the Chanel cap toe slingback flat, there are many companies that make this style shoe. I posted the Steve Madden shoe here because I think it is a great value. (Stuart Weitzman also makes a really nice one).
These are the Mansur Gavriel ballet flats vs. the Everlane. They are both made of extremely soft leather, and they are practically identical in shape. The difference in price from $395 to $145 is significant.
These are the Gianvito Rossi pumps which retail at full price for $950 (though you can definitely find them for less) vs. the very similar pumps from Nine West which sell for $95.
These are the Dolce and Gabbana mesh Pumps which are on sale for around $550 (which is actually a really good price) vs. the Nine West which are less than $100.
The Dolce and Gabbana mesh slingback which retail for $850 vs. the Stuart Weitzman which are around $400.
The Manolo Blahnik Hangisi pump is a classic that will never go out of style. At over $1,000 it is an investment piece. Vs. the Badgley Mischka satin pumps which are quite similar for $235.
The Rag & Bone sneaker (which is itself a similar style to the Loewe’s sneaker) for $245 vs. the Steve Madden Campo sneaker for around $100.
Dresses
This gorgeous Zimmermann wrap dress retails for $850. Vs. this (equally?) beautiful dress from Karen Millen for around $450.
This beautiful Zimmermann dress is $695 vs. the Alemais dress which retails for $395.
Zimmermann and Alemais are both Australian companies and their clothing tends to be quite similar generally. While Alemais is not a cheap brand, it is still significantly less expensive than Zimmermann. So, if you love the style but not the price, check out Alemais.
This magnificent Rodarte dress (something special) is on sale for $875 (60% off) vs. the Rixo dress which is on sale for $230. The coloring of these dresses are different and the Rodarte dress is clearly made of much higher quality fabric but the high waist, the rose, and the shape of the dress are similar.
This magnificent Allesandra Rich dress famously worn by Kate Middleton is no longer for sale, but I found this similar classically styled dress on Nordstrom for under $100.
I like brand name items and I think that sometimes it is worth the money you spend for the quality of the item and the amount of use you get from it. But it is not always necessary to spend which leads to the concept of being a smart shopper.
An experienced personal shopper can help you find great quality clothing without the luxury high end prices. If you are looking for a particular item or style, feel free reach out. I can help you find what you are looking for.
I hope you are enjoying these blogs. Please let me know if you have any feedback or specific topics you would like me to write about.
