So, lemme tell ya, the internet is *flooded* with options. Ellebe (check her out on Insta & TikTok, link above!) seems to be rocking some pretty fab finds – she even linked her sweater and glasses, which, by the way, are giving me major inspo. But back to the point: Loro Piana. Or rather, Loro Piana *adjacent*.
Like, I saw this article saying that even though Loro Piana loafers are like, the *bomb*, spending over a THOUSAND bucks is basically financial suicide. Truth. Hits hard, doesn’t it? That kinda money could pay rent, buy a decent used car, or, you know, fund my online shopping addiction for a *whole month*. Priorities, people, priorities!
Then there’s this whole thing about “designer lookalikes on Amazon.” Okay, Amazon… It’s a gamble. Sometimes you strike gold, sometimes you end up with something that looks like it was made in a toddler’s art class. But, hey, worth a shot, right? I mean, who doesn’t love the thrill of a potential steal?
Velasca loafers are mentioned as a more “notable investment” at around $340. Okay, *slightly* less painful than Loro Piana, but still…ouch. They claim the craftsmanship and materials are worth it. Maybe? I’d have to see them in person, you know? Gotta kick the tires, so to speak.
And then… Steve Madden dupes! Now we’re talking! Steve Madden is usually pretty reliable, and way more budget-friendly. I haven’t tried their Loro Piana dupes *specifically*, but I’ve had good luck with their other shoes. Plus, you can usually find them on sale, which is always a win.
But here’s the thing, right? It’s not just about finding a shoe that *looks* like Loro Piana. It’s about capturing that *vibe*. That effortless, understated elegance. Which is… harder than it sounds. A cheap-looking dupe is just… cheap-looking. Ya know?