Have you ever heard the phrase, “Champagne taste on a beer budget?” I think that applies to most of us, at one point in time or another. Sure, you could buy an area rug at Walmart but you really, really want that $1,100 Serena & Lily version. You like your Ford Escape alright but you’ve got your sights set on a Range Rover. Bissell makes a good vacuum cleaner but that Dyson sure is sexy.
See what I mean? We can usually do just fine at the price point we can afford but why do we always want more? The same goes for fashion, which is the theme of this article. These are designer-inspired pieces so good you won’t even find yourself longing for more: joggers at less than half the price at Lululemon, Ray-Ban-reminiscent shades for less than $16, and hair barrettes that might have you screaming, “Versace, Versace, Versace” (in my Migos voice). Save some dough below while looking designer-ready on a dime.
Try These Jeans On For Size At 90% Off
Dive into the BWQ Jeans for Women and discover the denim equivalent of a fairy godmother’s makeover. These jeans are so stretchy and forgiving, you’ll start believing in magic. Turn any day into a “Wow, my butt looks good” day.
You’ll Tote-ally Love This Bag And Its Price
This Beige Tote Bag is the Mary Poppins of accessories — practically perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re off to work or smuggling snacks into the cinema, this bag’s got your back. And yes, it might just be bottomless; I’m still checking.
Do Denim For 79% Less Than The Designer Brand
Button up with the SySea Women’s Button Down Denim Shirt and embrace the casual chic vibe it brings. Perfect for those days when you want to look put together but feel like you’re wearing pajamas. It’s denim’s distant cousin — twice removed and much softer.
Spend A Fraction On This Designer Watch Look
Dazzle your wrist with the Peugeot Rectangle Crystal Bezel Watch, a timepiece that screams “I’m expensive” without emptying your wallet. It’s like wearing a chandelier on your arm, minus the electric bill. You don’t need a time machine when you can look this timeless … on the cheap.
Bag This Lookalike Purse For 97% Less
The ALDO Women’s Medium Greenwald Crossbody Bag is like your reliable friend who carries all your secrets, or in this case, your essentials. Sleek, black, and ready to hit the town, it whispers, “I’ve got you covered,” while silently judging your receipt collection.
You’ve Got Good Jeans
I don’t keep up on designer jeans much, mostly because they’re not built for folks like me. But, I do love a good deal so I had to share this Revolve alternative for 80 percent less than the name-brand version. This pair of asymmetrical jeans feature a straight leg and relaxed fit with four washes to choose from — all for just $40.
You Won’t Burn This Bra
Lululemon has developed a loyal following — and for good reason. The products are well-made and useful for a variety of sweaty activities. But, for me, as great as their gear might be, I’m not paying $68 for a longline bra, especially when the Amazon version is 69 percent cheaper. These come in nearly two dozen colors and sizes up to XXL.
These Electric Slides
Consider this your pre-summer reminder that it’s time to get your tootsies in shape for all the sandals and slides about to be in your future. These Hermes-esque flat band slide sandals are a drop in the bucket price-wise at just $34 (compared to $600). I love sandals that can be dressed up or down and these fit the bill perfectly.
Tackle Sweater Weather For 77% Less
The GreenMount Women’s Essential V-Neck Sweater turns every chilly day into a chance to showcase how luxury feels. Crafted from 100 percent pure cashmere, it’s like wearing a whisper. It’s like a warm, fuzzy secret you’ll want to keep all to yourself.
No One Will Know This Bodysuit Is Not The Real Deal
The MANGOPOP Mock Turtleneck Bodysuit is your wardrobe’s secret weapon, turning any pair of jeans into a sleek, no-tuck-necessary ensemble. It’s like having a fashion cheat code for instant elegance, minus the hassle of constantly readjusting. Just slip it on and voilà, smooth lines and perfect poise!
Take 80% Off These Birk-Inspired Sandals
Slide into CUSHIONAIRE Women’s Luna Cork Footbed Sandals and experience the bliss of forgetting those heels ever existed. Like walking on clouds, but with better arch support. Finally, a sandal that gets you, your feet, and your need to be effortlessly stylish and pain-free (minus that dreaded “breaking them in” period).
Look Cozy For 97% Less With This Wrap
Drape the Moss Rose Women’s Travel Plaid Shawl over your shoulders and step into a world where warmth meets style. It’s your personal shield against the chill, doubling as a chic accessory. Perfect for those who want to keep the cold at bay while looking effortlessly elegant.
This Cami From Amazon Is Less Than $20
Slide into the Wantschun Silk Satin Camisole and feel like luxury itself decided to give you a cuddle. This top is the wardrobe equivalent of a smooth jazz solo — effortlessly cool and surprisingly versatile. Just remember, dry clean only, because luxury doesn’t like to get its hands dirty.
These Retro Shades Are 97% Less
Strut into the past with Allarallvr Rectangle Cat Eye Thin Sunglasses, the ultimate accessory for anyone aiming to channel their inner 90s diva. These shades don’t just block the sun; they throw shade with style. Ideal for those who want to see the world through rose-tinted, nostalgia-infused lenses (for 97% less!).
Lay The Right Foundation With This Shapewear Deal
Tuck, lift and smooth with the SHAPERX Bodysuit, the magician of the wardrobe world. It’s like a firm hug that whispers, “I’ll hold everything together while you conquer the world … or just go to brunch.” Comfort and confidence packed into one seamless wonder.
Leggings Are Life
I live in my leggings — a full eight days a week. I suppose I feel comfortable doing that because I only give $20 for mine compared to the more expensive $118 Lululemon version. The buttery soft alternative on Amazon has a high waistband and ankle-length design with more than 20 colors to choose from. And, at this price, you can literally afford five pairs compared to one of the pricier versions.
Phone Home
Phone cases seem to run anywhere from $7 to $700 these days, depending on your make and model. MSCHF’s $56 phone case is pretty in line with current prices but the Lonli Edition alternative on Amazon is half the price and all the rage. Made with genuine European leather that will beautifully patina over time, it’s available in black and brown and is MagSafe-compatible.
These Faux Leather Leggings Are Nearly 60% Cheaper
Imagine slipping into Faux Leather Leggings that hug your curves tighter than your grandma at a family reunion. These high-waisted wonders come with a side of tummy control, making you feel like you’ve been photoshopped in real life. Who knew feeling like a wrapped burrito could look so chic?
Puffer, The Magic Dragon
$3,000 for a puffer jacket? Not when I can have a suitable replica for less than $70. This windproof jacket is soft and warm with ribbed knit cuffs, side zipper pockets, a stand-up collar and a modern cropped fit. It also enjoys an oversized style so it looks chic and up-to-date. These come in 16 colors and four sizes that are roomy enough for a bulky sweater underneath.
All Jacketed Up
Meet your new favorite full-zip jacket, an ode to a Lululemon favorite but at a much more palatable $30-ish dollars. Long, curved seams create a slimming look (always a win), storage pockets give you room for your earbuds, and the “nude tech” material is lightweight and breathable for yoga or errands. With nearly 30 colors to choose from, you could have a new jacket each day of the month.
Your Future’s So Bright You Need These Shades
I never, ever, never buy expensive sunglasses because I either lose them, smash them in my bag or sit on them. These square polarized sunglasses are a $16 version of the more expensive $161 Ray-Bans and the only way you’ll be able to tell them apart is the absence of the tiny Ray-Bans logo. (And, is that really worth an extra $145?)
In The Trenches
Spring’s right around the corner but winter is holding on for dear life. This fuzzy fleece trench will get you through the last cool days of this year and be waiting for you next year. You’ll feel especially savvy knowing you spent only $120 instead of the Max Mara version that runs nearly $4,000.
Lounging Around
Loungewear shouldn’t be expensive. Who wants to lounge around in a $300 outfit? The sheer guilt I would feel would be enough to make me no longer want to lounge. The three-piece set on the right runs between $44 and $51, depending on the options you choose from the nearly 30 available colors. Word of advice? Peep that colorblock version; it’s perfect for spring.
Go For Some Joggers
Joggers are like the fancier cousin of leggings and I am here for it. Of course, Lululemon has its own $128 version but you can get the same look for less than $30 a pair on Amazon. These have a high waist, tapered legs and banded ankles, with 10 solid basic colors and a few patterns to choose from. If you’re looking for comfy, look no further.
The Power Of The Purse
This purse hack looks like one of those “hidden picture” graphics. Look to the left and look to the right; can you spot the difference? Yeah, neither can I. The Bottega Venetta on the left will set you back nearly $2,700. The JBB woven version on the right is only $45. These bags, which come in seven different colors, are refreshing for spring right around the corner.
Hoop, There It Is
Hoop earrings are as classic as diamonds and Levi’s but you don’t have to drop a bundle to get a great pair. These lightweight chunky hoops are a mirror image of the Jennifer Fisher version that carries a $285 price tag. Choose from white, yellow and rose gold; actually, choose all three because you can have a trio for $42 and not feel a bit guilty.
Give Me A Ring
Like most women, I’m completely smitten with Cartier jewelry but unless I win the lottery (which I don’t play), I’m never going to splurge that significantly. This love friendship ring looks virtually identical to the $2,450 Cartier version for less than $10. Choose from a variety of finishes, some designs with small hearts and a very inclusive size chart, which is often hard to find.
On Pins And Needles
Some of my favorite “this-looks-like-that” finds are in the accessories category, which is where these coin-adorned barrettes fall with a price tag of less than $9. The alternative from Versace doesn’t cost an arm and a leg but you could have both the gold and silver versions on Amazon for half the cost. One reviewer called them “so darn cute … and saved her so much money.”
Laced Up
How can something as small as a bralette cost so much money? There’s not $38 worth of fabric involved in the Free People version on the left. I’ll save my dough and go with the $24 version, which looks almost exactly the same. These are all kinds of stretchy, lacy and strappy, perfect to throw under a cardigan or casual top.
A Flare For The Dramatic
How are you supposed to “namaste” if your bank account is on “E” because you spent $50 on your bootcut yoga pants? You’re not, that’s how. These cross-waist leggings have that modern waist design, a flare leg and a non-see-through (important) fabric. With more than 30 colors to choose from in sizes up to XXL, your savasana will never be sweeter.
Bodycon Artist
House of Sunny nailed it with this bodycon dress but then Seyurigaoka came along and turned a $117 dress into a $20 option. Designed with a deep V-neck halter and a sexy backless design, this colorful knit tank dress is giving me summer vibes with a tropical drink on a boardwalk at the beach. There are short and long styles here to choose from.
Be A Good Sports Bra
Today’s sports bras are cute but remarkably expensive for no reason at all. This strappy padded workout top is a sub-$20 option that rivals the $50 Lululemon version. Made with lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, it has removable cups for shape and coverage and crisscross back straps that let you twist with ease. Enjoy multiple solid colors and some cute patterns, too.
To The Max-i
Go ahead and show a little skin in this cut-out maxi dress that you’ll feel extra special in for less than $20. The alternative, a near-identical Cult Gaia option that retails for just under $300, is known by Serita and is a TikTok favorite. The Amazon version will fool even your fashion-savvy friends for 95 percent less than Cult Gaia is asking.
Sweater Weather
I love it when something is “98 percent less” than another option because it basically feels like I’m getting it for free. In this case, it’s this square-neck ribbed sweater for less than $30 that I seriously prefer to the $1,200 option (that looks like someone forgot to make a neck for). There are a dozen neutral and vibrant shades to choose from.
Dress To Impress
Are my eyes deceiving me or is this the exact same dress with a price difference from $500 to just $25? This strawberry midi dress is the spitting image of the Lirika Matoshi design for a fraction of the price. Puff sleeves, a mesh design and a belted waist are the same on each. The only thing that separates the two is more money in your pocket.
Boots And All
You could look like one of the Mario Brothers for $1,000 or you could look like one of the Mario Brothers for $100 and I think I can guess which is more likely. The big red boots taking over the internet are available on Amazon much cheaper than you’ll score a pair from MSCHF (if you can even find them). Be on-trend now at a fraction of the cost.
Slip Into These Fur Mules For Pennies
Step into the Arqa Fur Mules and feel like royalty, minus the castle. These fluffy loafers are your feet’s best companions for a casual strut around the kingdom of your living room. Comfort meets chic, because who says you can’t be stylish while fetching the mail?