Is It Okay to Buy High Street Copies of Designer Pieces? #iwillwearwhatilike

Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog

After the crazy madness that was cyber weekend (though I am aware today is Cyber Monday so it’s effectively still in full force),

I’ve been reflecting on my purchases and just how many were probably made over the course of the last few days. My absolute favourite purchase was these pink suede block heel shoes from ASOS, which are more than a little Gucci-inspired. They’d been going in and out of stock so often (try these if stock is out) I thought I wouldn’t get my hands on a pair, but when they look this similar to the original – without being a direct knock-off – did I really want some after all?

I can’t afford the real deal at =cough= over £600, but I wondered whether it’s actually okay to wear high street copies of designer pieces.

Firstly, the UK is set for plummeting temperatures again this week, so I think we’ve had what I reckon will be my last ankle-baring weekend of 2016 (unless we have an incredibly mild festive season like we did last year… seems unlikely). I went with what’s the most basic of outfits for cold weather: Jeans and a sweater. Apart from the denim I went with full-on soft cream and blush tones, added a hat to hide a bad hair day and revelled in the glory of my new shoes.

Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog

SHOP THE LOOK:

 

The jeans with red side-piping, the grey bubble earrings and grey watch were all Black Friday purchases as well (get 20% off everything at ASOS till 8am Tuesday UK time with code GOGOGO, and 30% off at ASOS US and Canada till 3am Tuesday EST with code THANKFUL30), and I got quite a few Christmas presents at the same time. But it was the shoes I was most excited about, however I nearly didn’t buy them because of my qualms over designer knock offs… Hear me out!

20% OFF AT ASOS TILL 8AM TUESDAY (UK TIME), CODE: GOGOGO
30% OFF AT ASOS US & CANADA TILL 3AM TUESDAY (EST), CODE: THANKFUL30

In trying to rationalise my potential purchase – and it being “okay” to buy them even though they’re quite obviously a looky-likey pair of shoes – I thought back to my favourite bag I wear so much. Despite being a fashion blogger I’m not necessarily familiar with every designer piece going(!), so when I first got my tan cross body bag with chain detail I had no idea it was a version of the Chloé Faye bag.

I chose that bag because I liked it, not because it looked like a Chloé, so does that make it wrong? Or even just not cool? Those were the things that were going through my head when debating the ASOS pink heels, so in the end I decided to go not with what I thought I should do, but just to buy what I liked (and seeing as this is the #iwillwearwhatilike corner of the internet then I’m just practising what I preach).

I don’t equate it to buying a dodgy replica designer bag, for example – just because I’d seen the Gucci Marmont shoes before I saw the ASOS pair doesn’t make it wrong to buy them, and as for being potentially uncool… I really don’t care about that. I know others may think differently but that’s my tuppence worth.

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The high street has always made watered-down versions of what’s on the catwalks, and my shoes aren’t pretending to be the real thing.

Onto the link up! Do add your outfits to this week’s link up and if you’ve added a link to here or my button to your post you may be featured next week 😊

ARE YOU OKAY WITH BUYING A HIGH STREET VERSION OF A DESIGNER ITEM? TELL ME IN THE COMMENTS OR TWEET ME @NOTLAMB!

Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
Casual autumn/fall outfit - Blush pink cable knit sweater, peg leg jeans, camel fedora, Gucci-inspired pink fringed block heel loafers, tortoiseshell handbag | Not Dressed As Lamb, over 40 style blog
La Redoute hat (similar) | ASOS sweater (similar) | ASOS jeans | ASOS shoes (they keep going in and out of stock so if it’s the latter try these ones – or just go for the Gucci real deal 😉💰) | Lotus handbag c/o | ASOS earrings | ASOS watch | Old scarf, unknown (similar) | AVON matte lipstick ‘Vibrant Melon’ | Essie nail polish ‘Maximillian Strasse Her’ (US, UK)

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#iwillwearwhatilike | Not Dressed As Lamb
Thank you for joining the #iwillwearwhatilike link up! This started as a campaign on Instagram in August 2015 where women over 30 wore everything on a journalist’s list of “inappropriate” items for 30+ women (including leopard print, short dresses and oversized sunglasses. Yes, really). It was so popular that I decided to carry it on weekly where women of all ages link up their fabulous style, never mind what anyone tells them not to wear!

The link up goes live every Monday at 3pm UK time and will stay open for a week. Whilst the original article was of course aimed at the 30+, you can be ANY age to link up. The only criteria is that you’re wearing whatever you damn well like!

An InLinkz Link-up


Linking up etiquette…

CLICK HERE to read the rules of linking up (and to grab the #iwillwearwhatilike button). Basically it’s just good manners to link back to here – to leave a comment is even nicer!

 

Featured favourites

Fashion bloggers who believe in #iwillwearwhatilike#

My favourite outfits from last week’s link up:

(L-R) My Fabulous Forties | The Cooking Wardrobe | Vanity & Me | The Sequinist  | The LIFB Issue

To get yourself featured next week, make sure you’ve included a link back to Not Dressed As Lamb or my button in your post/sidebar!

DO SHARE THE LOVE AND VISIT AS MANY LINKS AS YOU CAN (YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT OTHER LOVELY LIKE-MINDED LADIES YOU MIGHT MEET) – THE ORIGINAL INSTAGRAM CAMPAIGN FORGED SOME WONDERFUL NEW FRIENDSHIPS SO DON’T MISS OUT!

37 Comments

  1. 5 December 2016 / 5:40 pm

    I think there is the difference… your shoes do not pretend to be the real thing. Like with LV bags and the logo stamped all over the fake bag.
    I love the shoes. They are really cute.
    Linking up again as I don't have to go to fitness class. Cancelled because of Saint Nicolas (December 5). Which gives me time. I wish they could wrap that (time) and give it to me.
    Greetje

  2. 1 December 2016 / 5:14 pm

    Unless it's an investment piece like a wallet or a bag, I tend to veer towards high street pieces for the obvious cost savings involved 🙂

  3. 30 November 2016 / 10:15 pm

    YOUR FACE in THAT HAT! Dear god woman! Could you be any more gorgeous? Who will notice your shoes with that face of yours, sheesh! xx

  4. 30 November 2016 / 3:16 am

    Love, love , love your Gucci knock-offs! Would love a real pair myself, but I think these pink ones are so great. Love the soft pinks you chose too! Thank you for your link up! Come on over to Shoe And Tell to link up your pinks!

    Cherie
    http://www.stylenudge.com
    STYLE NUDGE

  5. 30 November 2016 / 12:13 am

    I love this outfit and have more than a few designer dupes in my closet so I say YES!

    Heidi || Wishes & Reality

  6. 29 November 2016 / 11:19 am

    Beautiful tender blush colors, love this. These shoes are beautiful and they don't pretend to be real Gucci (with fake logo,etc.) so why not. If they are inspired with somebody else, who are not… Isn't it exactly what we are doing? Trying to inspire somebody to imitate us? Isn't imitation the best compliment?

    Anna xoxo
    http://www.glamadventure.com

  7. 29 November 2016 / 7:52 am

    This outfit is so on point. Love the blush color and the shoes. 😉 Yes, buying look a likes can be frown upon (especially if you are in fashion business), but I consider it not a huge deal. I like to splurge on a classic models that will be worn for years, and I would shop look a like or similar styles for the "trendy" pieces that no matter how much I love them I now that in a season or two would be out. So yes, go and rock your shoes…they are amazing.

    March and May

  8. 29 November 2016 / 7:35 am

    From the fab fedora, to the cuddly oversized sweater (oh, those sleeves!), to the prettiest pair of pink Gucci-inspired pumps – this adorable ensemble is an instant cure for the autumn blahs, dearest Catherine!! Just looking at this outfit is a mood-lifter; I can only imagine how great you felt WEARING it!! XOXO

    http://www.StyleIsMyPudding.com

  9. 29 November 2016 / 4:32 am

    I don't think it matters if the piece is designer or a high end replica or even a low end replica. What matters is do you want it and can you style it in a way that makes you feel like a million dollars! And Catherine you always look like a million dollars. Very cute outfit! – Amy
    http://stylingrannymama.com/

  10. 28 November 2016 / 10:48 pm

    I am so loving the pinks in your outfit but the thing that makes the outfit sing is the red piping down the side of your pants. I adore fun details like that! You look fabulous! Peace! Cheryl Tucker

  11. 28 November 2016 / 10:22 pm

    The idea for the Gucci shoes was most likely inspired by something else originally.

    Say yes to runway trends filtered down to the high street, and say no to knockoffs and trademark infringements.

    A fake bag masquerading as an original doesn't make anyone look more expensive; rather even more cheap.

    I have Acne Pistol inspired boots, and who hasn't bought a bag inspired by Hermes designs?

  12. 28 November 2016 / 8:46 pm

    I love these nude and blush tones – they're so flattering against the skin aren't they? Adding a bit of tough ol' denim is a great ploy too. And as for the big designer debate, well it's impossible to avoid I think. We're all influenced by trends, but it's outright copying that's the pits in my view. Having said that, like you, I'm not au fait with every design and every designer in the marketplace so it's impossible to keep track.
    Have a lovely week Catherine x
    Anna

  13. 28 November 2016 / 7:54 pm

    Wow! Gorgeous look on you! You look really good in blush. I love your sweater and shoes!

  14. 28 November 2016 / 7:46 pm

    Love the sweater, love the shoes, love the whole outfit! Pastels are my vibe at the moment so this look is perfects. As for "inspired by" pieces…how else are those of us in the real world supposed to afford them, hence the need for designer inspired items. I agree with Melanie, a true counterfeit item is an entirely different story, but truly isn't everything inspired by something else?
    Debbie
    http://www.fashionfairydust.com

  15. 28 November 2016 / 7:23 pm

    Good question. I think if the item doesn't have a fake logo on it, it's good to go. It's the true counterfeit items that are problematic. It would be impossible to stop stylistic copying; even designers do it. Those shoes are fantastic and I wouldn't know they are Gucci-inspired. I hope you wear these beauties all the time! Great outfit.

  16. 28 November 2016 / 7:19 pm

    I don't care if it is a look a like as long as it is promoting self as an real thing! I have seen a lot of look alikes that I loved without really knowing they were a copy of some expensive designer.

  17. 28 November 2016 / 7:17 pm

    Of course it's ok to buy similar pieces as long as they are not fake miserable items.

    You are such a great and inspirational lady!

    Carmelatte

  18. 28 November 2016 / 6:49 pm

    I can totally see why the shoes "spoke to you!" I love the color, the suede, the heel – fabulous. The shade of pink is perfect for you! And I do think most clothes and shoes today are inspired by something else. I like when they are different enough that there isn't a real question if they are the "real" thing. But I also agree with the opinions above that the wearer really makes something his/her own.

    Thanks for the link up & have a great week!

    Andrea
    Andrea’s Wellness Notes

  19. 28 November 2016 / 5:32 pm

    Perfectly fine to wear high street versions of designer….and we're so lucky in the UK to have accessible and affordable versions so quickly. Your shoes are the most fabulous pink and coordinate so well with your jumper and hat.

  20. 28 November 2016 / 5:23 pm

    I love this soft pastel look. THis pink is so pretty on you! I Had eyed those shoes before on Katie, another blogger and they are sooo darn pretty! I see why you were excited.
    Have a great week
    jess x
    http://www.elegantlydressedadstylish

  21. 28 November 2016 / 4:58 pm

    I've said this to you before, I just adore blush pink on you Catherine. Dreamy!
    I'm going to buy that nail varnish too-fab colour x

  22. 28 November 2016 / 4:29 pm

    Oh Catherine, I'm dying over your bag!! And your shoes are absolutely beautiful. Love a good bargain, it doesn't always have to be a designer piece. Love, Kirsten xx

    http://www.thelifbissue.com

  23. 28 November 2016 / 4:03 pm

    Today everything is a knock-off of something else it seems. Fresh inspiration is hard to come by. As an avid thrifter and vintage buyer I don't worry about these kinds of things.

    I honestly believe the person wearing the item brings more personality to the piece than the piece itself. You are perfect proof.

    bisous
    Suzanne
    http://www.suzannecarillo.com

  24. 28 November 2016 / 4:01 pm

    So lovely, dear catherine.
    Thank you for this chance to meet in the distance.

  25. 28 November 2016 / 3:46 pm

    I love everything in this look! Fresh and very stylish!

  26. 28 November 2016 / 3:31 pm

    I didn't even know they were Gucci inspired, C and love them!! Perfect heel, they look gorgeous AND comfortable. You know I like accessories and your bag, hat and shoes are such a great choice with your jeans.

    xx
    Annette | Lady of Style

    • 1 December 2016 / 11:39 pm

      I forgot to say but yes they ARE comfortable, Annette!! Thank you so much, so glad I got them now! x

  27. 28 November 2016 / 3:24 pm

    Before I read the post I was thinking I like that back too! IMO sometimes we like the style of item, not necessarily the brand that designed it. There is a leather designer bag (expensive) that I have my eye on, I would totally buy it in vinyl/faux leather from another brand if I can find one 🙂

  28. 28 November 2016 / 3:14 pm

    Fabulous shoes! I love pink lately, never did. That bag is so stunning, I thinkI have said that before, but it is absolutely stunning.

    • 1 December 2016 / 11:38 pm

      Thanks Nancy – I go through stages of loving pink… it's a definite "do" stage at the moment! x

  29. 28 November 2016 / 3:09 pm

    Oooh, I loooooove this outfit Catherine. Sich gorgeous delicate shades. And the shoes!! The shoes are to die for. I think what Jodie said above is absolutely true. Pretty much everything on the high street has been "inspired" by a designer item. I think "knock-offs" that pretend to be a genuine designer item are a no-no but anything that merely ays homage is very different. Thank you for hosting the link-up as always and may I see how beautiful you look in the close-up of your face my lovely xxxxx Love Liz xxx http://www.whatlizzyloves.com xxx

  30. 28 November 2016 / 3:03 pm

    I do love those shoes, Catherine!
    As for copying—isn't that what everyone does somewhat? Even if we think we have an original idea—it seems like someone else had it before us! I think as long as they aren't claiming to be the designer pieces, that it's all good!
    jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

    • 29 November 2016 / 3:39 pm

      Jodie thank you… You're right about there being no original ideas any more!! 😉

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