Launched in 2023, New York luxury brand Khaite's $1,740 Marcy flats are a cult favourite among fashion lovers and A-listers alike.
The shoe, which "reimagines the classic ballerina", features precisely placed Swarovski crystals handmade by Italian craftsmen.
Khaite, whose designs have been spotted on stars like Beyoncé, Katie Holmes, Hailey Bieber, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, is known for its luxurious quality but hefty price tags, putting them out of reach for most shoppers.
However, Kmart Australia’s answer to the Marcy flats, which even come in similar colourways, has quickly gained traction online.
While there are some subtle differences in design, several fashion lovers are already siding with the now sold-out Kmart version.
On Sunday, popular fashion blogger Kmart Insider posted a side-by-side comparison of the two shoes on Instagram.
Known for her love of budget-friendly fashion, the blogger captioned the post: "Walk with a little bling in your step. I like the $15 @kmartaus version more. How about you? 🧐"
Many followers agreed, with one fan commenting: "These are so chic," and another saying: "Yes, the Kmart ones look nicer."
Are Designer Dupes Ethical?
Similar to the 'Marcy' shoe, Kmart Australia has duped the iconic Hermes Oran sandal, which retails for $1,295, and the Alaia fishnet ballet flats, which retail for $1,150.
However, not everyone is on board with the growing knack for designer dupes.
US-based stylist Candace M. Read has voiced her opposition to what she calls the growing "dupe culture" in fashion.
"Buying counterfeit items isn’t merely a matter of affordability; it’s a complex ethical dilemma," Ms Read wrote in a blog post on her popular fashion website last year.
"Counterfeiters capitalise on the hard work of designers and creators, diluting the value of their craftsmanship, and when we buy these items, we’re endorsing this practice."
She added that beyond the ethical concerns, dupes "perpetuate a cycle that stifles sustainability, fair wages, and ethical work environments."
Kmart's Success Story
Despite the controversy, Kmart Australia continues to be one of the nation’s most trusted brands.
According to a recent study by research firm Roy Morgan, the retailer ranked third, behind Aldi and Bunnings, in a survey released on September 13.
Australian shoppers have expressed trust in Kmart for its “products that suit everyone… with great low prices for quality products.”
Kmart Australia fans have noticed a stylish new pair of shoes that bear a remarkable resemblance to a high-end alternative.
The budget retailer has launched $15 Diamante Ballet Flats, and it's already so popular it's sold out online in both colours.
Eagle-eyed shoppers were quick to point out the affordable buy looks similar to the Khaite Marcy Flats priced at a staggering $1740.
Both shoes are designed with diamante detailing in the mesh construction. However, the Khaite flats are made in Italy.
Style blogger, who goes by the Instagram name 'Kmart Insider', highlighted the massive saving opportunity and emphasised how you don't have to spend hundreds of dollars to look good.
'Walk with a little bling in your step. I like the $15 Kmart version more. How about you?' she wrote.
Is Kmart's Dupe King?
Customers were thrilled with the product and admitted they'll be rushing to grab a pair when available.
'I need some of these!' one wrote.
'Omg I love them,' another said.
'So pretty,' a third wrote.
But some weren't a fan of the style.
'Not for me,' one admitted.
'I think they are all ugly. $1740 omg how ridiculous,' another wrote.
The department store has become known for releasing 'dupes' of popular products across all categories - from beauty to fashion and homewares items.
The bargain retailer's Mini Crossbody bag ($15) looks exactly like the famous Hermes 'Kelly' bag, which ranges from $20,000 to over $300,000 for certain models.
The brand's 'Birkin' and 'Kelly' bags are made in limited supply and allegedly only offered to clients who have an extensive purchasing history with Hermes.
Both Hermes' and Kmart's version are trapezium-shaped and closed around the mouth with two horizontal straps.
The mini size of the bag means the stylish accessory is perfect for quick coffee runs or to store your phone and wallet when you're on the go.
