Target vs Chanel?! Designer Luxury Dupes.
Four affordable Target alternatives to current high-end trends.
Last week, I did what I always do when I’m bored and feeling the crippling existential dread of the pandemic, which is to wander aimlessly around my local Target. I’m what my therapist calls an “impulsive shopper” (or an “emotional shopper” or something along those lines), but we aren’t going to use labels here.
If you read my last blog post, you know that your girl loves designer but can’t exactly walk the walk. I was stoked to discover that Target had a surprising amount of luxury-esque dupes priced within my credit limit. Once again, Chanel, if you’re reading this…?
I’m in no way saying that Target competes with the quality and prestige of these luxury brands. Pleather will never be leather, sadly. But, if you’re a broke college student like myself who happens to love the appearance of living above your means, you’ll probably like some of the items I’veelected below.
This post is not sponsored, none of the links are affiliate links (yet!).
Target Top Handle ($25) vs. Jacquemus Le Chiquito Moyen Top Handle ($485)
Okay, this could be a stretch, but I just got this bag from Target and I really love it. I saw my beloved Dorit Kemsley rocking her itty bitty Jacquemus bag on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (and subsequently roasted by Kyle for having a “toy purse”) and immediately fell in love with the designer. But I don’t have throwing-around money for a $500 toy purse, so obviously, I was ecstatic when I saw Target had a bag that kind of resembles it.
Target Clasp Closure Crossbody ($30) vs Chanel Classic Double Flap Bag (est. $7,700)
These photos aren’t doing either of these bags justice— they’re both a gorgeous key lime green in person. I’ve actually only seen the Chanel in photos posted by my favorite podcaster and non-influencer, Jackie Schimmel, but I can confirm it’s pretty damn close to the same color as the Target bag. I stopped in my tracks when I saw this bag because of how similar the coloring was. You don’t get the clout of wearing those coveted double C’s, but you also don’t have to spend half a year’s rent on one handbag.
Target Carolyn Block Heeled Chelsea Boot ($35) vs Christian Louboutin Turela 85 Nubuck Anke Boots ($945)
Snakeskin boots are all over Instagram this season, but you don’t have to sell a kidney to rock the trend. These boots would pair fabulously with the Louboutin bag I linked in my last post. Again, are you getting the prestige of rocking red bottoms? No. But will you be spending more than the contents of your checking account on one single pair of shoes? Nada.
Target A New Day Trench Coat ($50) vs Burberry Heritage Chelsea Trench Coat ($1,990)
Imagine in a world where one can afford to spend $2k on a trench. Look, I’m manifesting over here. As much as I’d love to drool over this fantastic Burberry coat, until I score my big girl job (fingers crossed), I’ll be sticking with this affordable alternative from Tar-jay. They’re not quite twins, more like sisters, and close enough that a girl can pretend.
Shameless plug of myself modeling, featuring the jacket and bag mentioned above.
