Mary-Kate Olsen is quite the trendsetter. A few weeks after being spotted on MK’s feet, Stella McCartney’s mesh sandals hit the digital shelves of NET-A-PORTER, but sold out there super fast. If you are craving the real deal, you can still find them on Stella’s website or read on and let me show you some recession-proof alternatives.

Stella McCartney Mesh Basket Sandals
($995, NET-A-PORTER)

Mary-Kate Olsen Loves Stella McCartney

At the beginning of 2009, Mary-Kate Olsen was having an obsession with Stella McCartney’s mesh sandals from the Spring 2009 collection. She was wearing them to various events and when being out and about before finally moving on to another pair of lustworthy heels which she could wear to death.

BCBGMAXAZRIA “Lisa” Pumps

UPDATE (03/10/2010): Here’s yet another fabulous but slightly pricey Stella McCartney knockoff by BCBGMAXAZRIA.

BCBGMAXAZRIA “Lisa” Pumps
($250, Endless)

Nine West “Hotrock” Mesh Sandals

UPDATE (10/30/2009): Found another budget-friendly Stella McCartney alternative by Nine West.

Nine West “Hotrock” Mesh Sandals
($80.06, Endless)

P.S.: Also available at Zappos & Nine West.

Bebe “Lizzy” Mesh Sandals

I always thought Steve Madden is the king of knockoffs, but after seeing so many knockoffs coming from Bebe latey, I have come to the conclusion that they deserve this title. Whenever I visit their website, new designer knockoffs have popped up just like these Stella McCartney knockoffs for example. Bebe’s “Lizzy” sandals come in 3 different colors and retail for $139.

Bebe “Lizzy” Mesh Sandals
($139, Bebe)

Christian Louboutin always seems to get it right, even if we’re talking espadrilles rather than sky-high pumps. Espadrilles have really seen a revival in the last couple of years but to be honest it took me a while to warm up to them. What I love about these Almeria Espadrille Wedges, however, is that they are a throwback yet totally modern at the same time. Sexy but also casual in a lovely summer-picnic kind of way. Celebrities obviously agree, as evidenced by the photos below. Clearly they’re in their budget, but are they in yours?

Christian Louboutin Almeria Espadrille Wedges
($535, Barney’s)

Celebrities Love Christian Louboutin

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Vince Camuto “Edon” Wedge Sandals

UPDATE (03/10/2010): Vince Camuto is challenging Jessica Simpson in the knock-off department with their spot-on interpretation of Louboutin’s Almeria wedges. Available in brown, ivory & black.

Vince Camuto “Edon” Wedge Sandals
($98, Zappos)

Jessica Simpson “Heathery” Espadrilles

If the answer to that question posed above was “No” but you’re still loving the idea of a cute pair of espadrilles to help you prance your way into spring, consider these sandals by Jessica Simpson. I didn’t initially have high hopes for her line of shoes, but I have to say that I’ve been pleasantly surprised. Not only are these a great price, but they’re practically identical to the Louboutins. Just throw on your favorite sundress and voilà: a perfect (and inexpensive!) look for those warmer months.

Jessica Simpson “Heathery” Espadrilles
($88.95, Endless)

P.S.: Also available at Zappos, Piperlime, NORDSTROM & Dillard’s.

Pssst! Hey you! Yes, you. Consider this your memo: gold is having a moment, and at the moment, black and gold are hot. So the Miu Miu Coffer Matelasse Leather Hobo is like tackling two trends in one. Double the hotness, right? This bag is the stuff my handbag fantasies are made of…black leather, striking hardware, pockets, multiple carrying options, and Italian craftsmanship to boot. Mmmmmmmiu Miu, I love you.

Miu Miu Coffer Matelasse Leather Hobo
($1.650, NET-A-PORTER)

Celebrities Love Miu Miu

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Diva Lili Levine Satchel

Ok, so after a cold shower I’m back. That Miu Miu Coffer Matelasse Leather Hobo had me swooning, and not just cause it’s gorge, but because it’s also $1.650. As much as I’d like to justify it with some cost-per-wear logic, that is hella high for a handbag. So instead, I’m thinking the Lili Levine Satchel by Diva is a happy medium. Same styling as the Coffer, without emptying the coffers to get it. But you knew we had a fab alternative, didn’t you? Cause at ITC, that’s how we roll.

Diva Lili Levine Satchel
($108, Baghaus)

Last year, I discovered the glorious versatility of the oversized grey tank. Throw it on with skinnies and it’s perfect for a summer weekend, or belt it over a skinny mini, add a blazer and strappy sandals or booties, and it’s a sexy-but-not-too date night ensemble. I can see why celebs love the KAiN Side Drape Pocket Tank. You can wear it with almost everything, to almost anywhere.

KAiN Side Drape Pocket Tank
($94, Singer22)

P.S.: Also available at Shopbop, Boutique To You & National Jean Company.

Celebrities Love KAiN

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NYC Boutique “The Shark Bite Tank”

The KAiN Side Drape Pocket Tank is a wonderful wardrobe staple, but $94 for a tank top? Come on. That’s a bit much. Luckily, we’ve found an alternative that is not only cheaper, but better. “The Shark Bite Tank” by NYC Boutique has the same flowing sides and pocket, but it is less transparent. That’s good for two reasons: a dark legging or bottom doesn’t show through the shirt, and the material holds up longer. See? I told you it was a better choice.

NYC Boutique “The Shark Bite Tank”
($34, Karmaloop)

A good friend of mine recently bought a Mulberry Bayswater (a gift to herself on her birthday) and for a week straight everyone oohed and ahhed over it at the office. It is a spectacular bag, to be sure, but I think this new Mulberry takes the cake: the Alexa – a slouchier, more casual version of the Bayswater named after British style export Alexa Chung who is a true devotee of the Mulberry brand. If you haven’t heard tell of this bag yet, you will. Speculated to be the “It” bag of the moment, the Alexa sold out instantaneously on NET-A-PORTER after being added last week. Restocks are supposed to follow soon, but even still, this beautiful creation is way out of my sad little budget.

Mulberry Oversized Alexa Leather Bag
($1.250, NET-A-PORTER)

Alexa Chung Loves Mulberry

New Look Twist Lock Satchel

Now admittedly the knock-off potential isn’t immediately obvious here, but look closer. UK retailer, New Look, has created what is clearly their take on the Mulberry Alexa – Alexa’s younger sister, if you will. We’re loving the twist-lock and the oversized buckles. This tan/gingerbread color is a great match for the bag pictured above, but if you check out New Look’s site you’ll see that the other colors offered (brown, ecru and black) very clearly reference the Alexa; and the price is truly fantastic!

New Look Twist Lock Satchel
(£15, New Look)

I don’t know about you guys but I have been enamored with the Chloé Paddington satchel ever since it emerged on the scene 5 years ago. I wasn’t the only one, though, this bag was an instantaneous hit. Along with some sister “It” bags (the Fendi Spy bag and the Marc Jacobs Stam, both of which we’ve covered here on InTheirCloset) the Paddington began to show up everywhere on the arms of fashionable celebrities. I think it was (and continues to be) so popular because of its perfect slouchy shape, roomy interior, and of course that to-die-for hardware. Sadly the Paddington has always been out of my price-range and, due to its popularity, there is really no hope of it ever going on sale.

Chloé Paddington Padlock Satchel
($1.875, NORDSTROM)

Celebrities Love Chloé

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Baghaus “Madeleine” Padlock Tote

Now granted I don’t have this bag in my hand right now, but just looking at the picture I can tell that Baghaus really knocked it out of the park with their “Madeleine” tote. How soft and slouchy does it look? The longer shoulder handle is missing but otherwise this bag looks pretty darn picture-perfect. Available in a multitude of colors (black, brown, beige, bronze, blue, white and pewter), this bag is guaranteed to get you tons of compliments. Personally, I’m loving the beige and brown.

Baghaus “Madeleine” Padlock Tote
($55.95, Baghaus)

If someone ever asked me how I picture my ultimate, perfect Cinderella shoe I would most probably point him or her to these lustworthy, eye-catching Swarovski crystal embellished works of art, also known as the “Eugenie” pumps by the legendary Christian Louboutin. Do I really need to tell you guys how much I adore these? Probably not. But, dear God, this gigantic price tag is giving me nightmares! And since there’s no prince in sight to bring these to me, all I can do is to keep dreaming! Damn you, Disney!

Christian Louboutin Eugenie Satin Pumps
($1.875, SOLD OUT)

Celebrities Love Christian Louboutin

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Martinez Valero “Ozzie” Satin Pumps

I have first seen these Martinez Valero pumps in a collection preview a few weeks ago and have been on my toes ever since waiting impatiently for these to finally hit the stores, so I can show you these faux Loubies in all their shining glory. It might not be a 100% knock-off match with the “Ozzie” being a peep-toe pump, but the outstanding rhinestone detailing is spot-on! No need to spend a fortune to look like a princess with these lovely Louboutin look-a-likes on hand! They come in either black, white, ivory, aqua or pink satin.

Martinez Valero “Ozzie” Satin Pumps
($179, Zappos)

Pelle Moda “Vinessa” Peep-toe Booties

These suede open-toe booties by Pelle Moda are also obviously inspired by Louboutin’s uber-glamourous “Eugenie” pumps even if the shape has been replaced with a bootie rather than a pump. Did I mention they are on sale? So tempting! Available in black, chocolate, purple & red suede.

Pelle Moda “Vinessa” Peep-toe Booties
($166.33, Endless)

The Spring 2008 wedge heel booties by Maison Martin Margiela below reminded me of legwarmers when I first saw them. I would have never thought they’d look so cute when put on until I saw Rachel Bilson flaunting her nude pair.

Maison Martin Margiela Covered Heel Wedge Booties
($595, SOLD OUT)

Rachel Bilson Loves Martin Margiela

Mixx Lola-01 High Heel Booties

UPDATE (02/28/2010): Mixx Shuz has a stiletto version of the MMM wedges. Available in black, nude & white.

Mixx Lola-01 High Heel Booties
($40.98, LoveMyShoes)

Faith “DEE” Ankle Cuff Sandals

UPDATE (02/28/2010): Found great MMM look-a-likes at UK retailer Faith. Available in black & tan.

Faith “DEE” Ankle Cuff Sandals
(£65, Faith)

Charlotte Russe Sandal Booties

If you covet Rachel’s Margiela booties, but don’t have her kind of budget, try these Charlotte Russe sandal booties below which come only in black though.

Charlotte Russe Sandal Bootie
($26.99, Charlotte Russe)

Steve Madden “BERT” Open Toe Wedge Booties

If you wear a size 5.5 and are willing to spend more, these MMM knockoffs by Steve Madden might be ideal for you. Also available in black only.

Steve Madden “BERT” Open Toe Wedge Booties
($169.95, Steve Madden)

Ash Opium Wedge Ankle Booties

If you live in the UK (or Europe) and want to get your Maison Martin Margiela fix 4 less, try these ankle boots by Ash. Yes, they vary slightly as the ankle boot is higher and open in the back, but they’re still a good alternative compared to the originals. Currently on sale for £75 (£135).

Ash Opium Wedge Ankle Booties
(£75, Office)

Ash “Soho” Collared Sandals

Turns out Ash has not only one but two Margiela knockoff versions on the market. The “Soho” sandals look more like the real deal, but are only available in a size 38 (US 8).

Ash “Soho” Collared Sandals
($219, Bloomingdale’s)

Do you guys remember when Sex and the City the movie came out and everyone went gaga (including myself) for Carrie’s Dior gladiator sandals? Those heels were amazing. I love that look of a pump with studs or embellishment; they’re like jewels for your feet. These Miu Miu Rivet sandals are equally as awe-inspiring. I’m such a fan of the deep chestnut color and the brushed silver studs. They are currently on sale right now for $320 (retail price: $795), but even that is still out of my budget. So we began the search for a cheaper version.

Miu Miu Rivet Sandals
($320.93, Barney’s)

Celebrities Love Miu Miu

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Vince Camuto “Mabel” Sandals

Look at these sandals. Now scroll back up to the Miu Mius. Aside from the color and maybe a *slightly* lower heel, can you see any discrepancies? I can’t. Vince Camuto has created an amazing knock-off of the Miu Mius. They have almost every detail down perfectly – including the stud swirls! At about half the SALE price of the originals, I say these are a must have. Also available in black.

Vince Camuto “Mabel” Sandals
($120, Dillard’s)

AmiClubWear Peep Toe Stud Heels

Now if you’re looking for a super affordable version of the Miu Miu Rivet sandals, why not try these heels by AmiClubWear? At $25.99 they’re lacking some of the pretty, delicate details that the original pair have but they’re still very cute and that 5 inch heel will make your legs look miles long. If you’re checking out these shoes on the retailer’s site, make sure to click on the thumbnail where we see the model’s legs. The other pics show a slightly distorted image. These are also available in black, cream and grey but act quickly as only limited sizes are left.

AmiClubWear Peep Toe Stud Heels
($25.99, AmiClubWear)

New Look Studded Cut Out Platforms

UK retailer, New Look, has offered up a slightly more streamlined pair of platform pumps. The studs are there but they left out the swirly patterns. Still, it’s pretty clear where they pulled their inspiration from – the silhouette is virtually identical to the Miu Mius. The price, however, is not. These will only set you back about $34 or £25. Available both in the black, pictured here, and cream.

New Look Studded Cut Out Platforms
(£25, New Look)

I just adore a studded shoe. Well, truth be told, I’m loving a studded anything right about now. Thankfully there are more options this century than there were in the last one—we’ve moved beyond Bedazzler hideousness and full-on rocker paraphernalia. This lovely Prada sandal is a fab example of studs done right. There’s a hint of rebellion, but also a sort of 40s sensibility in the shape and structure of this shoe.

Prada Studded Suede Cross Strap Platform Sandals
($636, Bluefly)

Celebrities Love Prada

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N.Y.L.A. “Naigel” Studded Platform Sandals

Yes, it’s true: celebrities (and even us mere mortals) love Prada. But the thought of stepping in a puddle or a crack while wearing a $636 suede-covered heel? Uh, I know that’s an idea I don’t love. If you’re of the same ilk, allow me to introduce “Naigel” by N.Y.L.A.. Now you can have all the studded, criss-crossed moxie of the Prada version, in a more resilient and less-expensive leather pair.

N.Y.L.A. “Naigel” Studded Platform Sandals
($114.95, Endless)