Charlotte Russe

Real vs. Steal – Valentino Rockstud Ballerina Flats

February 16, 2019

Great flats are hard to find. Especially ones that will look chic even with work attire. These ballerinas by Valentino are perfect to wear with chic cigarette pants to the office and look just as fantastic with leggings and a tunic on the weekend. The studs give them a little bit of a vampy edge while the color makes fair-skinned legs look longer. There is even a tiny hint of a heel to balance them out and provide an extra bit of polish. But even though they are quite gorgeous, they are also a little too expensive for everyday flats. The concept is not completely lost though; there are at least a couple inspired-by versions out there for way less. Keep scrolling down for more tips and info on where to find them!

Valentino Rockstud Ballerina Flats, $745 || Nordstrom

Also available at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Matches Fashion, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Harrods, MyTheresa, Selfridges, Net-A-Porter, David Jones, Vestiaire Collective & The RealReal.

Mix No. 6 Almandra Studded Flats

Update (02/16/2019): Just look at these beautiful and almost identical Valentino Rockstud flat dupes by Mix No. 6! So close to the real deal, but so affordable at $44.99! Love, love, love these studded faux patent leather flats!

Mix No. 6 Almandra Studded Flats, $44.99 || DSW

Royou Yiuoer Studded Pointy Ballerina Flats

Update (12/19/2017): Royou Yiuoer strikes once again! Found these super spot-on Valentino flat dupes at Amazon which come in 17 different colors, uppers and finishes, are made of leather and cost $69.99. Looks like this could be quite the designer dupe deal!

Royou Yiuoer Studded Pointy Ballerina Flats, $69.99 || Amazon

Katypeny Studded Pointed Toe Flats

Update (03/29/2017): Stumbled upon yet another awesome set of spot-on Valentino Rockstud dupes today! They’re by a brand called Katypeny and come in a variety of 16 different color combinations which are all made of faux leather. Price point: $69.99. I wouldn’t expect the highest product quality, but customers seem to be mostly satisfied with their $70 designer alternatives.

Katypeny Studded Pointed Toe Flats, $69.99 || Amazon

Dame Rose Studded Patent Ballet Flats

Update (11/28/2016): Just discovered these Valentino Rockstud deadringers by Dame Rose. They’re spot-on and currently on sale for $73. But hurry, only few sizes are left!

Dame Rose Studded Patent Ballet Flats, $73 || YOOX

SheIn Pointed Toe Studded Flats

Update (07/20/2016): Spotted another very pretty and very budget-friendly Valentino Rockstud alternative today! Available at SheIn in either black, white rose or hot pink faux patent leather for $23.99! Yay to this steal deal!

SheIn Pointed Toe Studded Flats, $23.99 || SheIn

Also available at Romwe.

Kaitlyn Pan Pointed Toe Studded Ballerina Leather Flats

Update (02/19/2016): Well, hello there, super mega perfect Valentino Rockstud dupes! Kaitlyn Pan strikes again. Absolutely adore these spot-on genuine leather ballet flats which are currently on sale for a little over $100 which I think is a fair price for this kind of quality shoe! Also available in various other colors and uppers.

Kaitlyn Pan Pointed Toe Studded Ballerina Leather Flats, $103.99 || Amazon

Also available at Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.ca & Amazon.com.au.

INC International Concepts Zabbie Pointed-Toe Flats

Update (02/19/2016): These studded flats by INC International Concepts offer the Valentino look without being an identical knock-off. Available in black or nude for a little over $60 (sale price).

INC International Concepts Zabbie Pointed-Toe Flats, $62.65 || Macy’s

Roberto Festa 6005 Pointed Toe Studded Flats

Update (02/19/2016): Also spotted these amazing Valentino inspired Italian flats by Roberto Festa. At ~~$298~~ they are everything but a steal (now on sale for $149), but they are almost ~~$450~~ $596 cheaper than the real deal and they’re made in Italy afterall, so the quality should be superb. Also available in other colors.

Roberto Festa 6005 Pointed Toe Studded Flats, $149 || Jildor

Also available at YOOX.

Skechers Cleo Studded Ballet Flats

Update (02/19/2016): A more rounded Valentino Rockstud inspired alternative is available by Skechers for under $40.

Skechers Cleo Studded Ballet Flats, $37.95 || Shoes.com

Bongo MaryKate Studded Ballet Flats

Update (08/08/2015): OMG! I just spotted these cute Valentino Rockstud ballet flat dupes by Bongo and went almost hysteric when I saw the price. $14.99, people! I think this has to be our cheapest steal find yet. Better snap them up quick, all sizes are still available as I am writing this.

Bongo MaryKate Studded Ballet Flats, $14.99 || Kmart

Spurr Bambi Studded Ballet Flats

Update (08/08/2015): Also discovered these super spot-on Valentino Rockstud dupes by Spurr which come in either nude or black faux patent and retail for $39.95 AUD.

Spurr Bambi Studded Ballet Flats, $39.95 AUD || The Iconic

Steve Madden Lansingg Studded Point-Toe Flats

Update (06/28/2015): Spotted a Valentino inspired studded flat at Steve Madden today. Available in either black or nude shiny faux leather for $69.99.

Steve Madden Lansingg Studded Point-Toe Flats, $69.99 || Steve Madden

Also available at Steve Madden (CA).

Billini Crush Pyramid Studded Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats

Update (05/22/2015): More Valentino Rockstud flat look-alikes! Aren’t these pointy studded flats by Billini absolutely amazing and spot-on? And the price seems to be reasonable as well. Love!

Billini Crush Pyramid Studded Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats, $79.95 AUD || The Iconic

Pink Inc Bishop Studded Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats

Update (05/22/2015): Another lovely Rockstud dupe are these flats by Pink Inc. They’re made of genuine leather and hence are more expensive compared to the faux leather Valentino dupes.

Pink Inc Bishop Studded Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats, $169.95 AUD || The Iconic

Also available at Amazon.com.au & Myer.

Diavolina Miranda Pyramid Studded Pointed Flats

Update (05/19/2015): Stumbled upon these spot-on Valentino Rockstud dupes by Diavolina today. Available in various colors for $79.98 AUD (sale price).

Diavolina Miranda Pyramid Studded Pointed Flats, $79.98 AUD || StyleTread

Also available at The Iconic & eBay.

Wild Diva Lounge Pippa-36 Pyramid Stud Ballerina Flats

Update (04/12/2015): Discovered these fab and spot-on Valentino Rockstud flat look-alikes by Wild Diva Lounge today and instantly had to share them with you.

Wild Diva Lounge Pippa-36 Pyramid Stud Ballerina Flats, $14.99 || Shiekh

Also available at Amazon, eBay & GoJane.

Fanyo Studded Patent Flats

Update (01/06/2015): Here’s another set of lovely pastel-colored Valentino Rockstud dupes by Fanyo for under $20.

Fanyo Studded Patent Flats, $19.71 || YesStyle

Charlotte Russe Studded Pointed Toe Flats

Update (01/06/2015): Discovered these fun-colored and super affordable Valentino Rockstud look-alike flats at Charlotte Russe.

Charlotte Russe Studded Pointed Toe Flats, $12.99 || Charlotte Russe

GoJane Studying Pyramids Faux Leather Flats

Update (09/21/2014): Stumbled upon these cute and super budget-friendly Valentino Rockstud ballet flat dupes at GoJane today. Available in various colors for $20! Yay!

GoJane Studying Pyramids Faux Leather Flats, $20.70 || GoJane

Jessica Buurman CARRIE Studded Ballet Flat Sandals

Update (01/25/2014): Found another great Valentino ballet flat dupe at Jessica Buurman! They’re currently on sale for $109 and come in a variety of colors including lavender (my personal fave), white, pink, green, yellow and more. Use promo code XOXOJESS for 10% off your order at Jessica Buurman (limited time offer).

Jessica Buurman CARRIE Studded Ballet Flat Sandals, $109 || Jessica Buurman

Ken up Rockstud Ballerina Flats

Update (08/15/2013): Check out these Valentino Rockstud dupes by Ken up which are currently on sale for $38.17 and come in either nude or light blue PU leather.

Ken up Rockstud Ballerina Flats, $38.17 || Chicwish

Sole Society Martine Stud Detail Flats

Update (04/13/2013): Just stumbled upon these cute and budget-friendly Valentino look-a-likes by Sole Society! Aren’t they lovely? Also available in snakeskin.

Sole Society Martine Stud Detail Flats, $49.95 || Sole Society

Forever 21 Studded Faux Leather Flats

Update (03/27/2013): Forever 21 have also great Valentino Rockstud flat alternatives which come in 3 different colors. Only $24.80!

Forever 21 Studded Faux Leather Flats, $24.80 || Forever 21

Also available at Forever 21 (CA), Forever 21 (UK) & Forever 21 (EU).

Nine West Surrender Studded Flats

Update (12/27/2012): Just came across these fab Valentino inspired flats by Nine West.

Nine West Surrender Studded Flats, $39.99 || Nine West

C Label Hudson 10 Studded Ballerina Flats

This first version by C Label has the same studs as the original as well as the beautiful overall shape and construction. The small difference is their slightly higher heel which I love because even though flats are phenomenal for long days on your feet, that extra half inch goes a long way. But that definitely wouldn’t change how you’d wear them; they would still be perfect with skinny or tailored boot cut trousers and a feminine blouse for work. Just throw on a colorful cardigan and instantly feel inspired by a fresh new take on a little 1950’s glamour.

C Label Hudson 10 Studded Ballerina Flats, $11.99 || Amazon

GoJane Studded Flats

The second option we found is from GoJane, and at under $25 for the pair, you can be sure you’re getting a steal. This style works especially well when worn with jeans and a tee for running errands or grabbing brunch or coffee over the weekend with friends. The cut of the shoe is the exactly same as the designer version, the only difference is the hardware and studs, which are more modest in design. But while the other styles might be dressier, these still look sharp and classic; plus your feet will thank you for giving them a day of rest once in a while.

GoJane Studded Flats, $23.40 || GoJane

Real vs. Steal – Christian Louboutin Bis Un Bout PVC Ankle Strap Pumps

February 10, 2019

Very much the modern update on a classic pointy-toe pump, this design by Christian Louboutin is perfect for the fashionista who wants to be the first to add another sexy pair of heels to her wardrobe. While most versatile in black, (the way Rihanna and Lea Michele wear theirs), if you’ve got the budget to also get them in neon yellow… you can count on your feet getting a considerable amount of attention all season and beyond. And considering the popularity of this pair among Hollywood’s most stylish stars, it’s no wonder you can’t find them in stores. But, the good news is other designers are definitely catching on and look-alikes have begun to emerge… One of the first designs to echo this coveted futuristic design at an affordable price is shown below.

Christian Louboutin Bis Un Bout PVC Ankle Strap Pumps, $795 || Neiman Marcus

Celebrities Love Christian Louboutin

Celebs like Kristen Stewart, Rihanna, Beyoncé Knowles, Brooklyn Decker, Lea Michele and Angie Harmon have all been spotted wearing Christian Louboutin Bis Un Bout PVC Ankle Strap Pumps. Available in either black or white faux leather for $69.95.

Chinese Laundry Gabrianna PVC Cap Toe Ankle Strap Pumps

Update (02/10/2019): Didn’t expect to find any more dupes for such an old Louboutin style, but these clear lucite ankle strap pumps by Chinese Laundry would make a great Bis Un Bout look for less option, don’t you agree?

Chinese Laundry Gabrianna PVC Cap Toe Ankle Strap Pumps, $69.95 || Chinese Laundry

Also available at Amazon, Zappos & Nordstrom

Choies Berta Vinyl Black Patent Leather Heels

Update (01/15/2015): Discovered another Louboutin look-alike at Choies today.

Choies Berta Vinyl Black Patent Leather Heels, $89.99 || Choies

Charlotte Russe Ankle Strap Lucite Pointed Cap-Toe Pumps

Update (09/22/2014): Discovered these Louboutin dupes for a steal price of $30 at Charlotte Russe. Also available in various other lovely colors including purple, red and pink.

Charlotte Russe Ankle Strap Lucite Pointed Cap-Toe Pumps, $30 || Charlotte Russe

Journee Collection Lulu Strap Pumps

Update (09/22/2014): These Journee Collection lucite ankle strap heels are also a great alternative to the Louboutins above and they come in several other colors like pink and white, too.

Journee Collection Lulu Strap Pumps, $59.99 || Target

Journee Collection Olga Lucite Ankle Strap Pumps

Update (09/22/2014): Also found this Louboutin dupe by Journee Collection in black and blue faux suede.

Journee Collection Olga Lucite Ankle Strap Pumps, $69.99 || Kohl’s

Liliana Olga-1 Transparent Pointy Toe Ankle Strap Clear Pumps

Update (08/03/2013): Here’s another fab and super affordable Louboutin Bis Un Bout dupe by Liliana.

Liliana Olga-1 Transparent Pointy Toe Ankle Strap Clear Pumps, $28 || eBay

Also available at GoJane & CiCi Hot.

Zehui Ankle Strap PVC Pointed Pumps

Update (06/29/2013): Found a lovely mid-heel CL Bis Un Bout look-alike by Zehui in neon yellow. Also available in black and pink faux patent leather.

Zehui Ankle Strap PVC Pointed Pumps, $22.79 || Amazon

Shiekh 081 PVC Pointed Ankle Strap Pumps

Update (06/29/2013): Shiekh has also a faux patent leather Louboutin look-alike version available in pink, black and nude.

Shiekh 081 PVC Pointed Ankle Strap Pumps, $19.99-49.97 || Shiekh

VS Collection Cap-toe Pumps

Update (04/12/2013): If you’re still looking for a Louboutin alternative, check out these ankle strap pumps by VS Collection which are currently on sale for $39.99 at Victoria’s Secret!

VS Collection Cap-toe Pumps, $39.99 || Victoria’s Secret

Qupid Potion-44 Pointy Cap Toe Ankle Strap Pumps

Update (03/05/2013): Came across another great Louboutin alternative. Check out these fab and affordable ankle strap heels by Qupid. Available in black, white as well as neon pink and neon yellow.

Qupid Potion-44 Pointy Cap Toe Ankle Strap Pumps, $31.99 || CiCi Hot

C Label Luxe-7A Ankle Strap Pumps

Update (02/21/2013): Found another CL Bis Un Bout look-alike. These ankle strap pumps by C Label cost $28.73 (sale price) and come either in neon yellow, black or nude faux leather.

C Label Luxe-7A Ankle Strap Pumps, $28.73 || 6pm

BCBGeneration Cynthia Ankle Strap Pumps

Update (12/12/2012): I know many of you haven been waiting for a more high-quality Bis Un Bout knockoff to pop up and here it is: BCBGeneration‘s Cynthia. I really love this Louboutin look for less!

BCBGeneration Cynthia Ankle Strap Pumps, $46.72 || Nordstrom

Also available at BCBGeneration.

Wild Rose Posy-01 PVC Ankle Strap Pumps

If you are a huge fan of the designer look above, then why not have a little fun with this version by Wild Rose? While it’s definitely not worth a huge investment, if you’re one to try many different styles, you can have a lot of fun wearing these. I do wish they had a little bit of a higher/skinnier heel and lower cut toe, but for ca. $30 you can play with this trend and show a little pop of neon under some trousers during cocktail hour. Pick one other accessory in a complimentary neon shade (like a cuff or a great belt) to really pull the outfit together and make it look effortless. Perhaps try the bright orange pair under some navy pinstripe trousers, a white blouse and a couple bright bangles in gold and magenta.

Wild Rose Posy-01 PVC Ankle Strap Pumps, $28 || Nordstrom Rack

Real vs. Steal – Self-Portrait Azaelea Lace Dress

September 7, 2018

Self-Portrait. How could we have possibly missed out on covering this new and super coveted brand for so long? Sorry about that, folks. But before we head into showing you our best Self-Portrait steal finds, here are a few facts about the contemporary fashion label: it was founded in 2013 by Han Chong (also former creative director of Three Floor) and quickly gained red carpet and social media buzz shortly after, landing dress gigs with celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon and Miranda Kerr as well as personal style bloggers like Chiara Ferragni (The Blonde Salad) and Kristina Bazan (Kayture). The signature aesthetic of the London-based brand are feminine, romantic dresses and separates with lots of lace, embroidery and sheer overlays which have a surprisingly appealing price point: Dresses typically fall in the $500-$600 price range. And while I honestly applaud Han Chong for wanting to create a mid-priced fashion label with lots of attention to detail, $500 is still a lot of money for a lot of people (even though I’ll admit the “Azaelea” dress, which by the way got silently renamed correctly to “Azalea” in the meantime, thus probably referring to the flower, pictured below looks like it’s worth every penny of it). Keep on reading to find various stylish Self-Portrait dress alternatives for much less.

Self-Portrait Azaelea Midi Lace Dress, $500 || Nordstrom

Also available at Forward by Elyse Walker, Shopbop, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, ASOS, Selfridges, Harrods, Matches Fashion, Luisaviaroma, MyTheresa, Stylebop, Vestiaire Collective & The RealReal.

Celebrities & Style Bloggers Love Self-Portrait

Celebs such as Bella Thorne, Miranda Kerr, Maisie Williams and personal style bloggers like Blair Eadie (Atlantic-Pacific), Julia Engel (Gal Meets Glam) and Aimee Song (Song of Style) have all been spotted wearing a Self-Portrait Azaelea Midi Lace Dress.

Design Lab Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress

Update (09/07/2018): Discovered these lovely Self-Portrait Azaelea dupe dress by Design Lab which are currently on sale for a little over $30. Use promo code September to get 20% off regular and sale priced items at Lord & Taylor (exlusions apply, limited time offer). Steal deal alert!

Design Lab Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress, $34.30 || Lord & Taylor

Aqua Lace Cami Midi Dress

Update (11/03/2017): I think I stumbled upon one of the best Self-Portrait Azaelea steal finds! Check out this lovely lace midi dress by Aqua which come in various colors including black, burgundy, navy and baby blue and is significantly cheaper than the real deal.

Aqua Lace Cami Midi Dress, $52.23 || Bloomingdale’s

Silvian Heach Bolognano Midi Lace Dress

Update (11/03/2017): Just stumbled upon this beautiful and almost spot-on Self-Portrait look-alike dress by Italian brand Silvian Heach. It comes in a lovely pastel yellow color and is currently on sale for €165.60 (down from €276) which is admittedly quite pricey for a designer dupe, but the quality looks pretty great, so it might be worth the investment.

Silvian Heach Bolognano Midi Lace Dress, €165.60 || Silvian Heach

Also available at Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.de, Amazon.it, Amazon.fr & Amazon.es.

Storets Kelly Midi Lace Dress

Update (09/30/2017): Spotted these cute Self-Portrait dupe lace dresses at Storets today. My personal favorite is the green version, but I also like the yellow color.

Storets Kelly Midi Lace Dress, $64 || Storets)

Apart Crochet Lace Midi Dress

Update (05/28/2017): Just stumbled upon this lovely and spot-on Self-Portrait Azaelea look-alike dress by Apart. It’s a little expensive, but still about half the price of the real deal.

Apart Crochet Lace Midi Dress, €169.90 || Amazon.de

Apart Lace Midi Dress

Update (05/28/2017): Although it doesn’t have the same floral lace pattern, these midi dresses, also by Apart, would be a great Self-Portrait alternative as well. Plus, they’re significantly cheaper than the spot-on dupe above. My personal fave is the baby blue color! Perfect wedding guest dress!

Apart Lace Midi Dress, $119 || ASOS

Minusey Floral Lace Midi Dress

Update (05/28/2017): And check out these awesome and super spot-on Azaelea dress dupes I found at Minusey! I tried to make out the differences, but can’t seem to find any. Available in either blush pink, dusty blue or white for $148. Make sure to use our reader exclusive promo code INTHEIRCLOSET at checkout to get 10% off your order at Minusey!

Minusey Floral Lace Midi Dress, $148, Minusey

Vila Viclarna Strappy Lace Skater Dress

Update (05/18/2017): If you’re looking for a short version of the “Azaelea” dress Vila has got you covered. Available in white, navy and baby blue.

Vila Viclarna Strappy Lace Skater Dress, $60.50 || ASOS

Also available at About You.

Vero Moda Beauti Strappy Lace Dress

Update (04/23/2017): Looks like Vero Moda came up with their own Azaelea inspired dresses which come in either red or navy and are little shorter than the original (knee-length), but otherwise have the same look for a much lower price (€59.95).

Vero Moda Beauti Strappy Lace Dress, $59.95 || Amazon

Also available at Vero Moda & About You.

Edited Mailin Strappy Crochet Lace Maxi Dress

Update (04/23/2017): Also stumbled upon this Self-Portrait inspired maxi lace dress by Edited which looks a lot like the Azelea dress, but is a little longer and could serve as a great and budget-friendly bridal dress for a summer wedding.

Edited Mailin Strappy Crochet Lace Maxi Dress, €109 || Edited

ASTR Lace Midi Dress

Update (03/19/2017): Just in time for Spring, I’ve discovered these amazingly similar Azaelea lace dress dupes by ASTR which come in 3 colors and retail for $89. I love these!

ASTR Lace Midi Dress, $89 || Nordstrom

Donna Morgan Valentina Novelty Lace Midi Dress

Update (03/19/2017): And how gorgeous is this summery yellow lace dress by Donna Morgan? It’s quite similar to the H&M version below and I think I like this one even a little more. Not a total steal at $148, but probably worth the investment.

Donna Morgan Valentina Novelty Lace Midi Dress, $148 || Amazon

Also available at Zappos & 6pm.

Chicwish Ingenious Crochet Cami Dress

Update (03/19/2017): Discovered these lovely Self-Portrait inspired lace midi dresses at Chicwish which are currently on sale for a little over $40.

Chicwish Ingenious Crochet Cami Dress, $42.90 || Chicwish)

NA-KD Boho Floral Crochet Midi Dress

Update (03/19/2017): Also found this Self-Portrait inspired set of dress at NA-KD which reminded me of the Azaelea dress as well. They come in a variety of colors (black, red, nude, blush and dusty blue) and cost $95.11. A more spot-on and just as lovely maxi dress version is also available at NA-KD for the same price.

NA-KD Boho Floral Crochet Midi Dress, $95.11 || NA-KD

Avery G Lace Tea-Length Dress

Update (08/28/2016): Now look at this gorgeous Self-Portrait Azalea look-alike dress by Avery G. Not exactly a steal at $339, but the dress quality might be worth the investment.

Avery G Lace Tea-Length Dress, $127.46 || Amazon

Also available at Bloomingdale’s.

H&M Lace Dress

Update (08/23/2016): Just a quick heads-up to let you know that the gorgeous H&M Azaelea dupe dress is now also available in a lovely light pink color! This dress has been restocked several times and always sold out super fast, so don’t wait too long if you love this one!

Another gorgeous Self-Portrait Azaelea alternative is this lace midi dress by H&M. It’s ~~currently only available in yellow~~ (also comes in white and rose pink now), but it does look lovely and so similar to the real deal, right? I know $129 seems oddly expensive for an H&M dress, but be rest assured, I actually ordered this dress myself and it is definitely worth the money, the fit is flattering and the quality is good. So if you’re a fan of feminine lace summer dresses, this one is a great buy!

H&M Lace Dress, $129 || H&M

SheIn Fit & Flare Lace Cami Dress

Update (06/04/2016): YASSSS! Another spot-on and budget-friendly Self-Portrait Azaelea dress dupe has popped up on the internet today! Found this one at SheIn; it comes either in pale blue or dusty rose and costs less than $50. Woohoo!

SheIn Fit & Flare Lace Cami Dress, $25-$31 || SheIn

Also available at SheIn #2, Romwe & Zaful.

Tang House Lace-Up Back Crochet A-Line Dress

Update (06/04/2016): Also spotted another shortened Azaelea inspired dress version which has a beautiful lace-up back detail! It’s by Tang House, comes in various lovely colors and costs $54.90. What do you think? Yay or nay?

Tang House Lace-Up Back Crochet A-Line Dress, $54.90 || YesStyle

Charlotte Russe Strappy Crochet A-Line Dress

Update (05/12/2016): Steal deal alert! Look what I just discovered at Charlotte Russe: the perfect little white Self-Portrait Azaelea look-alike dress for a super steal price of just $23.99! Don’t wait, buy now, this dress will sell out once the word is out.

Charlotte Russe Strappy Crochet A-Line Dress, $23.99 || Charlotte Russe

Warehouse Lace Halter Dress

Update (05/12/2016): Came across another Azaelea dupe today at Warehouse. The neckline is different, but the rest of the design is pretty much identical. Available in red, black, burgundy and blue.

Warehouse Lace Halter Dress, £65 || Warehouse

Also available at ASOS.

Club Monaco Bolari Midi Lace Dress

Update (05/08/2016): Spotted another great Self-Portrait Azaelea look-alike today! It’s by Club Monaco, comes in either black or forest green and costs approx. half as much as the real deal ($219). Love the green version for redheads! What do you think?

Club Monaco Bolari Midi Lace Dress, $149, Club Monaco

bebe Cotton Eyelet Dress

Update (04/28/2016): Just spotted this Self-Portrait inspired summer dress at bebe. It has obviously some major differences (e.g. different pattern and length), but the bodice clearly gives away where the inspiration for this dress came from.

bebe Cotton Eyelet Dress, $111.30 || bebe

LuLu*s Pinnacle of Prestige Lace Midi Dress

If you can’t afford spending half a grand on a flirty summer dress, here’s our best steal find (yet!) which I discovered at LuLu*s some time ago. And I would’ve showed you this lovely $64 lace midi dress some time ago already, but it kept selling out so fast – restock after restock – that I didn’t even have enough time to finish up this blog post before this dress was completely sold out again, so I patiently waited until it got restocked for what feels like the tenth time now and for the first time it didn’t sell out in the first 60 minutes. Yay! However, this dress is obviously still wildly popular, so I wouldn’t wait too long with buying. Who knows if it’ll be restocked for an eleventh time?

LuLu*s Pinnacle of Prestige Lace Midi Dress, $64 || LuLu*s

Persun Flower Embellished Cami Dress

And of course, where there’s a trend Asian copycats can’t be too far away. The design of the Persun midi lace dress is very close to the real deal (including the colors), but I can’t tell for sure whether the quality is worth paying $39.99 for.

Persun Flower Embellished Cami Dress, $39.99 || Amazon

Similar dress options are also available by Choies & Jessica Buurman.

Free People South Of The Equator Midi Dress

OK, now this Self-Portrait steal find kind of irritates me. Don’t get me wrong: I love Free People and I looooove designer dupes. But what I don’t understand is how you can blatantly copy a $480 dress and then sell your own copied version for a whopping ~~$300~~ (now on sale for $69.95), thus making both dresses compete in the same price range? Now that’s a little shameless, isn’t it? Even for blatant copycats. Anyway, I still wanted to include this dress option because it does look a lot like the real deal and it is in fact still ~~$180~~ $380 cheaper than the original, so if you’re OK with paying that much money for a copycat design, feel free to do so.

Free People South Of The Equator Midi Dress, $69.95 || Free People

Image source(s): Selfridges, Lord & Taylor, Amazon, Storets, About You, Mandel Design, Zalando, Edited, Nordstrom, Donna Morgan, Chicwish, NA-KD, Romwe, YesStyle, Charlotte Russe, Warehouse, Club Monaco, Bloomingdale’s, bebe, LuLu*s, H&M, Jessica Buurman, Free People

Real vs. Steal – Charles Anastase Dungeon Boots

September 7, 2018

This is only the second time we’re featuring Charles Anastase shoes on InTheirCloset, but judging from all the fashion/style blogs posting love letters and odes to the designer, it seems like he’s gotten himself quite a big following of fashionable style bloggers who’d do anything to get their hands on a pair of his crazy platform shoes. The ones you see below are called “Dungeon Boots” and they’re from Anastase’s Fall/Winter 2009 collection. Sorry, I wasn’t able to find a better picture of them, but you can still see these are some badass, sky-high platforms. I’m not sure about the price or where to get them, but they’re probably way too expensive and too hard to get hold of anyway.

Charles Anastase F/W 2009 Dungeon Boots

Charlotte Russe Mandy Lace Up Platform Ankle Booties

Update (09/07/2018): Spotted these platform lace up boots at Charlotte Russe and wanted to share them with you. Available in black or taupe faux leather for $38.99.

Charlotte Russe Mandy Lace Up Platform Ankle Booties, $38.99 || Charlotte Russe

Jeffrey Campbell Lita Lace-Up Boots

Lucky for us Jeffrey Campbell seems to be an Anastase fan as well. Check out Lita from JC’s F/W 2010 collection. Isn’t she pretty? She totally looks like Anastase’s clean-cut little sister. Which I think I prefer actually. The platform on the Anastase boots is bordering on the fetish/stripper shoes side while JC’s version is high, but not obscenely so. Order these in an array of different colors and finishes. Quickly, because these are destined to sell out in no time.

Jeffrey Campbell Lita Lace-Up Boots, $119.95 || Amazon

Also available at YOOX, Jildor, Nordstrom, Urban Outfitters, Footnotes, Revolve & eBay eBay .

Image source(s): Style, Charlotte Russe, Solestruck

Real vs. Steal – Joie A La Plage Nice Knot Thong Sandals

July 7, 2017

Don’t get me wrong: I loooooove high heels with utmost passion, but when summer is blazing its heatwaves upon us, the last thing I would think of wearing are high heeled shoes. A good flat sandal that you can easily slide in and out of and walk in for hours is absolutely essential in the summer; especially if you’re planning to go on vacation. Flip flops would be an obvious choice here, but aren’t we so over them by now? That’s why I am absolutely smitten with these backless knotted sandal leather slides by Joie. I love their minimalistic yet chic design (made in Italy, btw) and the supple cowhide leather; these would go with almost anything in my wardrobe. And while they’re not terribly expensive at $125 (currently on sale for $43.75), we understand that many of you are on a budget, so we made it our mission to find some great alternative options for much less. Just keep on reading.

Joie A La Plage Nice Knot Thong Sandals
($43.75, Shopbop)

Also available at Zappos, Amazon, Saks Fifth Avenue, Joie, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus & Bloomingdale’s.

Celebrities & Style Bloggers Love Joie

Celebs such as Reese Witherspoon and various personal style bloggers have been spotted wearing Joie A La Plage Nice Knot Thong Sandals.

Seven7 “Nuvo” Knotted Thong Sandals

Update (07/07/2017): Spotted another set of lovely Joie Nice look-alike sandals today! They’re by Seven7, come in various colors and are on sale for less than $30.

Seven7 “Nuvo” Knotted Thong Sandals
($26.97, Nordstrom Rack)

Also available at Amazon & Kohl’s.

Dorothy Perkins “Frazer” Knotted Thong Sandals

Update (05/02/2017): Here’s another absolutely fabulous and spot-on Joie Nice dupe to add to the list. It’s by Dorothy Perkins, comes in either black or white faux leather and costs $25. Love these!

Dorothy Perkins “Frazer” Knotted Thong Sandals
($25, Dorothy Perkins)

Also available at Debenhams, Amazon.co.uk & Amazon.de.

Pieces Knotted Thong Leather Sandals

Update (05/02/2017): Also found these fabulous leather sandals by Pieces which are obviously inspired by Joie as well. Made of genuine leather, price: £22.35.

Pieces Knotted Thong Leather Sandals
(£22.35, Pieces)

Also available at Bestseller.

Charlotte Russe T-Strap Slide Sandals

Update (04/20/2017): Today I browsed the Charlotte Russe website and came across these steal-worthy Joie sandal look-alikes which come in either rosegold or faux snakeskin are just $9.09! Steal deal alert!

Charlotte Russe T-Strap Slide Sandals
($9.09, Charotte Russe)

Massimo Matteo Thong 17 Sandals

Update (03/28/2017): Spotted another Joie Nice inspired set of thong sandals! These here are by Massimo Matteo, they’re made of genuine leather and are on sale for $30.99! Also available in various other colors.

Massimo Matteo Thong 17 Sandals
($34.99, Amazon)

Also available at Zappos.

Merona “Malia” Thong Sandals

Update (03/06/2017): Check out these amazing Joie Nice look-alike sandals by Merona which are super budget-friendly ($19.99!) and come in either black, tan, silver or raspberry red. Absolutely love this designer dupe steal find!

Merona “Malia” Thong Sandals
($19.99, Target)

Rock & Candy “Blaney” Thong Sandals

Update (12/14/2016): Discovered these spot-on Joie Nice dupe sandals by Rock & Candy today which are available in various colors and are currently on sale for less than $25! Major steal deal alert! This sandal is also available with a 1,25″ stacked heel here if you need some extra height.

Rock & Candy “Blaney” Thong Sandals
($24.97, Nordstrom Rack)

Wanted “Munn” T-Bar Knotted Flat Sandals

Update (12/14/2016): Also found these knotted summer sandals by Wanted which are a spot-on dupe of the Joie originals. They’re a little pricey at $129.95 AUD, but once they go on sale these might be a nice and budget-friendly alternative to the real deal. Available in tan, white, silver and leopard.

Wanted “Munn” T-Bar Knotted Flat Sandals
($129.95 AUD, Wanted Shoes)

Old Navy T-Strap Slide Sandals

Update (03/22/2016): Spotted another very affordable Joie Nice alternative today! How cute are these knotted t-strap slides by Old Navy? Available in black, cognax or white faux leather for $24.94.

Old Navy T-Strap Slide Sandals
($24.94, Old Navy)

Lucky Brand “Ari” Thong Sandals

Update (03/22/2016): Here’s a fab Joie Nice look-alike by Lucky Brand which is available for less than 1/3 of the price of the real deal. Available in black, tan, blue and watermelon pink leather.

Lucky Brand “Ari” Thong Sandals
($35.99, 6pm)

Also available at Amazon

Forever 21 Faux Leather Thong Sandals

Update (03/22/2016): Forever 21 now has a lovely non-suede Joice Nice dupe stocked! Available in black, tan, white and gold faux leather for a very budget-friendly price of $12.90! Steal deal alert!

Forever 21 Faux Leather Thong Sandals
($12.90, Forever 21)

Steve Madden “Olivia” Knotted Thong Flat Sandals

Update (03/09/2016): Spotted these amazing and spot-on Joie Nice look-alike sandals by Steve Madden. Available for $19.80 in various colors. Made of genuine leather. Love these!

Steve Madden “Olivia” Knotted Thong Flat Sandals
($19.80, LuLu*s)

Rebels “Paitlyn” Knotted Thong Sandals

Update (03/09/2016): Also discovered these Joie dupes by Rebels which are currently on sale for $20.95. There’s also a very cute cow-hair version available for a little over $30.

Rebels “Paitlyn” Knotted Thong Sandals
($20.95, Amazon)

Alex + Alex Leather Thong Sandals

Update (03/06/2016): These Alex + Alex thong sandals have an extra back strap, but the overall design is obviously inspired by the Joie sandals above.

Alex + Alex Leather Thong Sandals
($69, Gilt)

Maiden Lane “Gia” Thong Slides

Update (03/09/2016): Also love the fun colors of these Joie inspired flat sandals by Maiden Lane. So many colorful options! Love it!

Maiden Lane “Gia” Thong Slides
($19.99, Gilt)

Forever 21 Faux Suede Sandals

Update (12/13/2015): Spotted these lovely faux suede Joie Nice dupes at Forever 21 for a steal price of $12.90. Love every one of the colors!

Forever 21 Faux Suede Sandals
($12.90, Forever 21)

Also available at Forever 21 (Canada), Forever 21 (UK) & Forever 21 (EU).

Mossimo Supply Co. “Ainsley” Knot Thong Sandals

If you’re on a really tight budget, then these cute thong sandals by Mossimo Supply Co. are probably your best option. The design is spot-on, they come in three different colors (black, brown and white) and they can be yours for less than $15! Only downside? These are made of PU leather, so no promises regarding durability and/or sweaty feet here.

Mossimo Supply Co. “Ainsley” Knot Thong Sandals
($13.98, Target)

Sole Society “Sarena” Knotted Slip-On Thong Sandals

If you’re willing to invest a little more for a genuine leather option, check out these chic summer sandals by Sole Society. Again, these are pretty much a spot-on dupe compared to the Joies above (plus, I love that these are made of genuine leather). The price of $29.98 (sale!) ain’t too bad either (that’s less than half the price of the real deal).

Sole Society “Sarena” Knotted Slip-On Thong Sandals
($29.98, Sole Society)

Also available at Nordstrom.

Naya “Crescent” Huarache Sandals

Another look-for-less option would be these huarache sandals by Naya. They have a very similar design and come in various color combinations (and are genuine leather, too), plus they’re currently on sale for a budget-friendly $44.99.

Naya “Crescent” Huarache Sandals
($44.99, 6pm)

Also available at Amazon.