Take for example, the sold out Giuseppe Zanotti Two-Tone Swirl Sandal, shown below. These shoes originally retailed for $1150.
Compare the original with Shoemint's Stella design. This pair originally retailed for $79.98, now only $39.99! Personally I prefer their taupe/yellow version.
Do you splurge on shoes? If so, what kind? If not shoes, then do you splurge on other guilty pleasures?
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| Giuseppe Zanotti Swirl Sandals image from neimanmarcus.com |
The suede swirl straps and sky-high stiletto heel make for an eye-catching design. But of course, most people wouldn't want to drop 4 figures on a pair of shoes, especially for a pair that's rather impractical, albeit stunning.
Thus, very similar designs (or identical designs, if you ask me, because I don't think I could spot any difference) are mass produced at price points that are a fraction of the designer version's price, for the budget-conscious and more pragmatic consumers.
Thus, very similar designs (or identical designs, if you ask me, because I don't think I could spot any difference) are mass produced at price points that are a fraction of the designer version's price, for the budget-conscious and more pragmatic consumers.
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| Shoemint Stella image from shoemint.com |
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| Charlotte Russe Caged Velvet Color Block Sandal image from charlotterusse.com |
Also consider Charlotte Russe's take on this shoe. This version is just a little shorter in height and has a metal buckle, which is different from the other two pairs' textured buckles.
At first glance, I don't think most people would be able to tell the difference between these 3 pairs of shoes.
If you can't tell, then is the designer item worth the splurge? While not everyone is able to make splurge purchases, almost everyone does want to look good. So I can definitely understand why some people go for the cheaper 'inspired' versions.
If I had to choose between the 3 of these, I'd go with the Shoemint version. Since they are manufactured by Steve Madden, I feel I can most likely rely on their standards of quality. Also, I don't know what it is, but they just look more attractive than the Charlotte Russe pair.
I'm pretty sure the original Giuseppes are all sold out, so I probably wouldn't be able to get my hands on a pair. Even so, I'm not the type to purchase high-end designer shoes. I would pay a little extra for comfort or for a certain style. But for the most part, when it comes to shoes, I prefer not to splurge. When I do splurge on something, I aim to keep it \in the best condition possible. When it comes to shoes, that's just not possible, because shoes are meant to hit the ground.
If I liked the design of a name-brand shoe enough, I'd probably purchase an 'inspired' pair from a mid-range brand like Steve Madden. So I guess I'm not the type to splurge on shoes, but never say never. Maybe one day I might surprise myself.
Now splurging on handbags... that's another story.
At first glance, I don't think most people would be able to tell the difference between these 3 pairs of shoes.
If you can't tell, then is the designer item worth the splurge? While not everyone is able to make splurge purchases, almost everyone does want to look good. So I can definitely understand why some people go for the cheaper 'inspired' versions.
If I had to choose between the 3 of these, I'd go with the Shoemint version. Since they are manufactured by Steve Madden, I feel I can most likely rely on their standards of quality. Also, I don't know what it is, but they just look more attractive than the Charlotte Russe pair.
I'm pretty sure the original Giuseppes are all sold out, so I probably wouldn't be able to get my hands on a pair. Even so, I'm not the type to purchase high-end designer shoes. I would pay a little extra for comfort or for a certain style. But for the most part, when it comes to shoes, I prefer not to splurge. When I do splurge on something, I aim to keep it \in the best condition possible. When it comes to shoes, that's just not possible, because shoes are meant to hit the ground.
If I liked the design of a name-brand shoe enough, I'd probably purchase an 'inspired' pair from a mid-range brand like Steve Madden. So I guess I'm not the type to splurge on shoes, but never say never. Maybe one day I might surprise myself.
Now splurging on handbags... that's another story.
Do you splurge on shoes? If so, what kind? If not shoes, then do you splurge on other guilty pleasures?
WOW what an amazing copy! I defo prefer the yellow one
ReplyDeletehttp://www.candyliquor.co.uk
UK High Street Fashion & Style
xoxo
Me too :)
Deletethese are such a trendy shoe, i wanna say save and go with the cheaper version if you`re on a budget! i never like to say go with the "knockoff", but in this case the shoemint ones did a pretty good job! it looks way more proportionate than the charlotte russe ones and the thinner heel on the shoemint ones make it look nicer!
ReplyDeletexx. LC
Thanks! I agree with u, but I wasn't planning to make a purchase. I just stumbled upon these 'inspired' versions/'copycat' versions and wanted to compare as well as throw out the question of budget vs. authenticity. I admit I was tempted to get the shoemint ones, but they're sold out in my size...whew I won't be able to give in lol
DeleteOh boy those Giuseppe Zanotti's are amazing....but the Shoemint isn't bad...I think you shouldn't splurge as the style is quote trendy and you may be tired of it soon.
ReplyDeleteKT
www.KTRstyle.com
Thanks, but I wasn't planning to buy any of them. I just wanted to show how similar they all look.
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