Interning at Who What Wear Australia has ignited my fascination with, and appreciation for, luxury fashion. Not only am I surrounded by stylish editors, but my usual tasks include researching celebrity street style and designer trends on the daily. As you can imagine, these lust-worthy items seem far from attainable on my student budget. And if your list of goals includes purchasing Gucci Princeton Loafers ($1095), we’re on the same page. Perhaps one day, but until then, I’ve taken it in my stride to search for designer substitutes that fit my budget—and possibly yours too.
Whether you’re a working woman or a full-time student, adopting the latest runway trends doesn’t have to be determined by your bank balance. Finding affordable options is just as exciting and allows you to purchase more than one item. After endless Instagram stalking and researching designer alternatives, I’ve put together my list of carefully curated, budget friendly sites for achieving that designer look for less.
Keep scrolling to shop my secrets!
Loéil is one of my favourite finds! The L.A.-based online store is a must for runway inspired styles. Think minimal clean lines, cropped frayed flares and exaggerated flute sleeves. If you can’t justify splurging on those Vetements jeans worn religiously by every blogger, then this site is the next best thing.
Shop the brand:
How would a fashion editor wear it? With black ankle boots and a choker.
Storets is essential for one of the year’s biggest trends, anything worn off-the shoulder. Storets takes the cold shoulder trend to the next level with dramatic ruffles, asymmetric cuts and pinstripe prints.
Shop the brand:
I saw the original Rosie Assoulin version on Taylor Tomasi-Hill and made it my mission to track down a similar style.
I stumbled across this Etsy store while stalking the Uh La La Land blog on Tumblr. If close ups of embroidered Balmain dresses or Parisian street style excites you, stop what you’re doing and check both these sites out RN.
Shop the brand:
This top is made to order, so make sure you leave yourself enough time to order if it's for a specific event.
No wardrobe is complete without a signature handbag. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have the funds for the season’s latest ‘it’ bag. Charles & Keith is my go-to for luxury inspired handbags without the price tag.
Shop the brand:
Complete your outfit with a blush sling bag.
Related: The Reason Behind My Decision to Keep Interning
It’s no wonder Eight Slate has garnered the attention of many international fashion bloggers since its launch in 2014. With contemporary and minimalist aesthetics, Eight Slate’s signature style is juxtaposing clean lines with feminine silhouettes.
Shop the brand:
All you need to finish off this look is an oversized denim jacket.
What are your secret online shopping haunts? Share in the comments below!
Opening image: Sara Donaldson of Harper & Harley, by Liz Sunshine of Street Smith and Getty Images.
Read more stories about style tips and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter.