Affordable fashion finds that look just like the designer versions
Updated
Our fashion friends on the other side of the globe have spent the last four months embracing warm-weather clothes, and now it’s our turn. We’ve had a front-row seat to the hottest items for summer 2026/27, and while we may not be able to get our hands on the designer versions because of the designer price tags, we can at least hunt down the lookalikes.
From Chloe’s $2290 balloon pants, to Christopher Esber’s $400 thongs, these are the expensive-looking alternatives we’ve found for a fraction of the price.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.
Designer piece: St Agni’s Croc Embossed Carryall Tote, $899
St Agni’s croc-embossed bag is a fan favourite. St Agni
COS sent the internet into a frenzy when it dropped a $350 bag that looked incredibly similar to a $6750 Balenciaga one. Turns out, it was only the beginning of the lookalikes. We’ve spotted another contender: the leather Folio Mini Bag, $225, which has a similar vibe to St Agni’s Croc Embossed Carryall Tote.
The lookalike: COS Folio Mini Bag, $225
COS’ affordable Folio Bag is giving designer versions a run for their money. COS
Designer piece: Stella McCartney Lace-trimmed embroidered satin shorts, $865
Stella McCartney’s luxe satin sets are a best-seller. Stella McCartney
It’s official: we’re wearing silky pj sets out of the house. Satin materials have become a mainstay in our wardrobes since various designer labels like Stella McCartney dropped luxe-looking styles. While McCartney charges $865 for the shorts alone, we’ve found a much more affordable pair from Faithfull the Brand.
The lookalike: Faithfull the Brand Marisol Short Chocolate Lace, $170
Shoppers love Faithfull the Brand’s matching sets. Faithfull the Brand
Designer piece: Chloé pleated satin balloon pants, $2290
Chloe’s Balloon Leg Pants are popular overseas. Chloe
Among the various pant trends we’ve tried and tested throughout spring, the balloon style has proved it’s here to stay. Spotted with both high and low price tags, including Chloe’s iconic $2290 pair, we’re favouring a $49.99 style at H&M which can be worn with a simple tank top and blazer.
The lookalike: H&M Drawstring Detail Balloon Pants, $49.99
H&M’s balloon pants are only $49.99. H&M
Designer piece: Christopher Esber Jo Flip Flop, $400
Christopher Esber’s trending pair cost $400. Christopher Esber
Gone are the days of are wearing thongs just to the beach. Dubbed as the shoe of summer, classic flat thongs (or flip-flops) are being worn to the office and running errands. Christopher Esber’s $400 Jo pair sent the internet into a frenzy, and while we love the clear strap look, there’s a much more affordable $59 pair at Witchery we’re shopping.
The lookalike: Witchery Frida Jelly Flip Flops, $59
Witchery’s on-trend flip-flops are $59. Witchery
Designer piece: La DoubleJ Scarf asymmetric printed fringe-trimmed silk-twill blouse, $1190
Fringe tops like La DoubleJ’s are trending. Net-a-Porter
Two of the best trends have come together this season: fringing and asymmetric shapes. We spotted a gorgeous silk-twill blouse from La DoubleJ, but couldn’t justify the $1190 price tag. Instead, we’re adding Topshop’s deep plum top to our wishlist instead. With a similar bold pattern, it’s perfect with jeans for summer.
The lookalike: Topshop Devoure Fringe Asymmetric Top in Deep Plum, $84
This Topshop top is perfect for a summer evening outfit. Topshop
Designer piece: Tohum Samsara gold-plated, onyx, leather and seashell beaded necklace, $1030
Tohum’s necklace comes with a $1030 price tag. Net-a-Porter
This summer, the bigger the jewels the better. Instead of layering fine, dainty chains, we’re opting for chunky statement necklaces with pearls, shells or beads. Instead of Tohum’s eye-watering $1030 version, we’re off to pick up Country Road’s $129 resin multi-stone necklace.
The lookalike: Country Road Nyla Bead Necklace, $129
Add Country Road’s statement necklace to a basic tee. Country Road