Over the years, the definition of a “dupe” has become increasingly muddled. According to the Cambridge English Dictionary, a dupe is “used to refer to a product made to look like a more expensive or high-quality product.” In practice, a dupe is often understood as a cheaper alternative to a pricier item. When it comes to luxury products, however, a dupe is not necessarily a fake attempting to pass itself off as the real deal. Instead, it refers to pieces inspired by high-end designs, offering a similar aesthetic without claiming to be an exact replica.
Fashion's Dupe Culture
Dupe culture has long been a topic of debate. Recently, the conversation reignited when third-party sellers began offering dupes of the iconic Hermès Birkin bag. Dubbed the “Wirkin” (short for Walmart Birkin), this $78 alternative bears striking similarities to the original, from its structured double handles and classic trapezoidal shape to its signature lock and key. To the untrained eye, it’s nearly indistinguishable from its luxury counterpart. Yet, this isn’t the first time a luxury bag has inspired a wave of dupes. The Chanel Flap bag, for instance, has long been a favorite for imitation.
The “Wirkin” discourse has once again raised questions about the ethics of dupes. Are they harmless options for the budget-conscious or problematic imitations that devalue the artistry behind luxury goods?
To explore this divisive topic further, we turned to fashion’s leading tastemakers—stylists, designers, and influencers—to uncover what they really think about buying dupes of designer bags.
We Asked Style Authorities What They Really Think About Buying Dupes of Designer Bags
Rhea Bue, Social Media Content Creator
"Personally and practically speaking, I have nothing against people buying dupes or similar pieces to those of luxury/designer brands, as long as they are not for temporary use and are something you can keep for a long time."
"As someone who loves fashion, if I’m looking for a particular silhouette that I truly like (e.g., a bag or shoes), I would scout for other affordable but quality options rather than jumping straight into purchasing a designer piece. I believe that, with fashion, it doesn’t always have to be expensive or branded. You can always express your love for fashion in a more comfortable and affordable way."
Rei Germar, Social Media Content Creator
"In general, going for dupes that are not exact copies is fine for me! But personally, I would buy dupes depending on the silhouette."
"For example, bags like the Alaia Baguette—I think you’ll find baguette bags across most brands, so going for a more accessible one is totally fine! Another example is the Dior Tote Bag; LV has their On-The-Go as their version, and I’m pretty sure it’s also available in other brands. I think, for staple designs like tote bags, hobo bags, and backpacks, it’s totally fine to go for a less expensive one."
"But for bag designs that are specifically known to a particular brand, I would personally not go for it. Highlight on personal because it’s just my personal choice. For example, bags like the Kelly and Birkin—when you see one, you know immediately if it’s from Hermes or a dupe."
"And I always say how there are lots of up-and-coming brands out there with really beautiful and unique designs I’d rather go for, instead of duping a well-known design.
When I was starting out with luxury bags, I realized that lots of small purchases add up to be more expensive in the end, so I’d rather wait and save for the one I really want. But at the end of the day, it’s people’s money to spend, so we’re just here to share our personal preferences!"
Prince Padilla, Fashion Designer
"I understand the appeal of dupes—they make fashion more accessible and reflect its democratization, which is ultimately a good thing. They allow people to engage with trends they admire without the high price tag."
"That said, as a designer, I value originality and the craftsmanship behind luxury pieces. Dupes can sometimes reduce a designer’s work to mere aesthetics, overlooking the innovation, effort, and quality involved."
"Ultimately, I think thoughtful consumption is key. Whether it’s saving up and investing in original pieces, supporting emerging designers, or choosing alternatives that respect the integrity of the design rather than simply copying it."
Myrrh Lao To, Celebrity Stylist
"I’m okay with purchasing bags that take inspiration from designer pieces, as long as they’re not trying to pass off as the original. There’s a fine line between drawing inspiration and outright copying."
"When a bag is clearly inspired by a designer but still maintains its own identity, it can be a great way to enjoy luxury aesthetics without the hefty price tag. However, when a bag is designed to mimic an original so closely that it’s trying to deceive people into thinking it’s the real thing, that’s where it crosses into unethical territory. Not only does it undermine the creativity and hard work of the original designer, but it also contributes to the counterfeit market, which has broader negative implications for the industry."
Steph Aparici, Celebrity Stylist
"I appreciate designers taking inspiration from current trends when they tweak the design and make it their own somehow."
At its core, the debate around dupes is about personal values. Are you prioritizing the artistry behind design, or are you more focused on affordability and accessibility? While the consensus suggests that not all dupes are created equal, those that reinterpret high-end designs with originality and respect for craftsmanship can offer a middle ground between creativity and accessibility, appealing to a range of values.
The dupe debate isn't likely to settle anytime soon, especially with more affordable alternatives emerging in the market. Whether you're in favor of luxury or prefer dupes, the key is to approach your purchases thoughtfully and intentionally. Take into account factors like craftsmanship, ethics, and the broader impact of your choices. After all, fashion is as much about values as it is about style.
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