I spend a good portion of my blog talking about investment pieces and how to build a long lasting wardrobe. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to have added some really amazing investment pieces to my wardrobe – most of which happen to be handbags and designer heels. As much as I believe in investing in quality pieces that will last years down the road, I know that it isn’t always the most practical approach, especially when you’re just getting started building out your wardrobe. So, I wanted to do something a little different today and share the best dupes for my most worn designer pieces. Whether you’re looking to splurge on the real deal or want to get my looks for less, the pieces below are a great starting point.

 

Ksubi White Tee (wearing an XS) | NY Yankees Baseball Cap (also here) | Similar Leather Jacket (better for budget here) | Similar White Denim (better for budget here) | Christian Louboutin White Heels (better for budget here) | Saint Laurent Sunset Bag | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Christian Louboutin So Kate Pumps

It’s no secret that the Christian Louboutin So Kate pumps are my absolute favorite designer heels. I own them in black, nude, and white but have been wearing my white ones more lately. They hold up so well and look great with anything. If you choose to splurge on a pair, I recommend getting the soles protected by a professional shoe cobbler.

To get the look for less, I recently spotted these Steve Madden pumps and noticed how closely they resemble the So Kate’s. The sleek design and ultra high heel look so sexy and stylish.

Similar Ivory Bodysuit (under $20!) | Revolve White Linen Pants (wearing an XXS, similar here) | Mango Camel Coatigan (wearing an XS/S) | Bottega Veneta The Pouch Bag (camel color) | Schutz x Revolve Heels | Celine Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Bottega Veneta The Pouch Bag

Bottega Veneta The Pouch bag has been one of my newer and most-prized designer pieces. The buttery smooth leather, oversized design, and ruched opening makes it such a versatile piece.

For a quarter of the price, you can snag this Mansur Gavriel clutch, which also features a gathered design made from supple leather. Like the real pouch bag, it goes with everything from cocktail dresses to denim.

Revolve Bodysuit (similar here, better for budget here) | Bottega Veneta Bag (in Mist color) | Aritzia Pants (similar here and here) | Christian Louboutin White Heels (better for budget here)

Bottega Veneta Cassette Bag

The Cassette bag is currently on my shopping list. I love the woven design and how appropriate it feels for the spring season – especially in white. You guys know I’m all for pieces that do double duty – and this one can be carried as a crossbody bag or a clutch.

Topshop and Mango are both showing similar designs in their spring collections, which are way more affordable but equally stylish.

Amazon Tank Bodysuit (wearing an XS) | Levi’s Denim (wearing a 24) | Steve Madden Croc Heels (run TTS) | Saint Laurent Tote | Chanel Earrings

Bottega Veneta Shoes

I’ve had several Bottega Veneta shoes on my wish list for months now. On that list has been the Stretch mules, which feature a minimalist design and square toe.

There are so many dupes for this shoe style right now but I loved the croc design on these Steve Madden slides (they’re under $100)!

I’ve also been coveting the Stretch Sandals but haven’t caved into them yet. If I’m being honest, it’s tricky to tell whether they’ll stand the test of time. I may not always be the first to jump on a trend, but when I do, it’s usually one worth buying.

If you’re wanting the look for less, these sandals look identical.

I love that the Stretch pumps are unlike anything in my wardrobe with the netted mesh design and chain detail. However, they’re definitely pricey.

Schutz has a similar style for a fraction of the price (here).

Balmain Blazer (better for budget here) | Similar Nude Turtleneck | Similar L’Agence Denim (wearing a 23 – size down) | Golden Goose Sneakers | Louis Vuitton Pégase Luggage | Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM | Quay Sunglasses

Golden Goose Sneakers

When it comes to sneakers, Golden Goose are hands-down my favorite. The distressed look gets better with wear and they seem to last forever. I’m often wearing mine while I’m traveling, running errands, or whenever I want to dress down an outfit.

I just purchased these Steve Madden sneakers that look and feel so similar. They’re the best Golden Goose dupes I’ve seen so far.

White Gucci Belt (wearing a 75 – read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Gucci Logo Tee (wearing an XXS) | Gucci Marmont White Bag (mini size shown) | Balmain Blazer (wearing an FR34) | Christian Louboutin Red Heels (size down 1/2 size)

Balmain Blazer

If there’s one piece in my wardrobe that I wear religiously, it’s most likely my Balmain blazer. The nipped-in waist and lightly padded shoulders offer a perfectly tailored fit. I love how seamlessly it transitions from day to night.

Although I believe the Balmain blazer is totally worth the splurge, it will definitely set you back with a $2k price tag. So if you’re looking for a high-quality version that’s less pricey, this L’Agence blazer is a great option.

If you’re on a budget, then I also love and own this one.

Superdown Faux Leather Skirt (wearing an XXS, also love this one) | Similar Black Sweater | Mango Camel Coatigan | Christian Louboutin Leopard Heels (similar here, better for budget here) | Bottega Veneta The Pouch Bag | Givenchy Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Christian Louboutin Leopard Pumps

Leopard pumps are such a chic way to make an outfit stand out. Now that animal print is trending like crazy, it’s the perfect time to invest in a designer pair. I’ve had my Christian Louboutin leopard pumps for years now, but so many fast fashion brands have debuted so many great styles too.

This Sam Edelman style is one of my favorite budget-friendly alternatives.

Mango Black Coat (wearing an XS) | Verishop Lace Bodysuit (wearing an XS) | GRLFRND Denim (wearing a 23, better for budget here) | Dior Locket Necklace (similar here) | Saint Laurent Red Bag | Celine Sunglasses (sold out – similar here, better for budget here) | Christian Louboutin Red Heels (better for budget here)

Celine Edge Sunglasses

The one pair of sunglasses that I get asked most about are my Celine Edge, which have been sold out for a while now. The style is not only edgy but adds a cool, street chic vibe to any outfit.

I spotted these sunglasses during the Shopbop sale last week and thought they looked just like the Celine edge. You can snag them now for under $100.

 

xo, Maria