Designer Dupes: How To Look High-Fashion Without Breaking The Bank

A Season of Style, Without the Big Price Tags

September’s the perfect time for reinvention, but transforming your wardrobe doesn’t need to break the bank. It’s the best week of the year to go shopping. The start of September has always signalled a changing of the fashion seasons, as much as the meteorological ones, and so every major brand on the high street fills its stores with newness accordingly.

For fashion enthusiasts who crave the allure of designer labels but balk at the hefty price tags, there’s good news: you can achieve that high-fashion look without burning a hole in your wallet. Clemmie Fieldsend and Abby McHale have scoured the high street to bring you the best designer dupes, proving that you don’t need to spend thousands to look like you just stepped off the runway.

Dresses to Die For, at a Fraction of the Price

Take, for example, the stunning cream dress worn by Daisy Edgar-Jones, originally priced at a staggering £3,060 from Chloe. Zara offers a strikingly similar version for just £69.99, allowing you to save an impressive £2,990. The elegance and sophistication of this dress make it a must-have for any autumn wardrobe, and with savings like this, it’s a no-brainer.

Affordable Accessories That Won’t Disappoint

Accessories are not to be overlooked, and the high street has some fantastic alternatives to high-end pieces. Rochelle Humes' chic bag from The Row, priced at £5,460, can be effortlessly substituted with a £39.50 bag from Marks and Spencer. This savvy switch not only saves you £5,420.50 but also ensures you stay on-trend without the financial strain.

Shoes That Won't Break The Bank

Footwear is another area where you can make significant savings. Chanel’s cream shoes, retailing at £910, are undeniably gorgeous, but New Look’s version at £29.99 offers a similar style for a fraction of the price, saving you £880.01. These shoes are perfect for both casual and formal occasions, making them a versatile addition to your collection.

Bags for Every Occasion, Without the Designer Price Tag

Bags continue to be a focal point in any outfit, and the Loewe tote bag, priced at £1,450, is a prime example of luxury. However, H&M’s dupe at £18.99 provides the same functional elegance, allowing you to save £1,431. Similarly, the Goyard bag, which costs a whopping £2,058, can be swapped out for Primark’s £13 alternative, saving you a jaw-dropping £2,045.

Outerwear Essentials For the Cool Weather

Outerwear is essential as the temperatures drop, and the high street doesn’t disappoint. Barbour’s green jacket, priced at £249, finds its match in Marks and Spencer’s £79 version, saving you £170. This jacket is perfect for layering and adds a pop of colour to your autumn ensemble.

High-Heels That Won't Hurt Your Wallet

Even high-end heels are not out of reach. Gucci’s maroon heels, costing £840, can be replaced with River Island’s £42 pair, saving you £761 without sacrificing style.

Statement Pieces That Don't Cost a Fortune

And for those who love a statement piece, Altuzarra’s red skirt at £1,165 can be swapped for John Lewis’s £39.95 version, saving you an impressive £1,125.05.

Denim and Blazers on a Budget

Jeans and blazers are staples in any wardrobe, and the high street has you covered. Ganni’s jeans, priced at £235, have a New Look counterpart at £39.99, saving you £195.01. Meanwhile, Nina Ricci’s £1,070 blazer can be substituted with Marks & Spencer’s £79 version, saving you £991.

The High Street Has You Covered

It’s clear to see the high street is brimming with stylish alternatives to designer pieces, allowing fashion lovers to embrace the latest trends without the exorbitant costs. With these savvy swaps, you can look fabulous and save thousands, proving that you don’t need a designer budget to achieve a designer look.