Viral Designer Dupes You Need In Your Closet this Fall [Updated]

As the end of summer arrives, here’s proof that you don’t have to drain your bank account to look fly.

It seems like the price of just about everything is going up these days. And if you’re spending more on everything from gas to groceries, it doesn’t leave you a whole lot to spend on a new fall wardrobe. But don’t worry, we’ve scoured the web for great looks that won’t break the bank. These designer dupes prove you don’t have to compromise on style just because you’re on a budget.

Video will return here when scrolled back into view
Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter Tour Kicked Off With This Viral Moment

Fit & Flare Shirt Dress

Photo: Screen shot – Shein.comPhoto: Screen shot – Shein.com
Photo: Screenshot – Ralphlauren.comPhoto: Screenshot – Ralphlauren.com

A shirt dress is a timeless piece that can stay on constant rotation in your wardrobe. And this one from Ralph Lauren is about as classic as it gets. But if you’re a frugal fashionista that doesn’t want to spend the $145, check out this similar design from Shein that’s $24 and just as cute.

Pleated Skirt – H&M

Photo: Screen shot – hm.comPhoto: Screen shot – hm.com
Photo: Reformation.comPhoto: Reformation.com

The Calgary pleated skirt from Reformation is $106.80. But you know you can count on H&M for a similar style at a much cheaper price. Their pleated skirt is $39.99 and comes in three great fall colors.

Leather Mules – Shein

Photo: Screen shot – Shein.comPhoto: Screen shot – Shein.com
Image: Gucci.comImage: Gucci.com

The Women’s Princetown Leather Slipper from Gucci sells for $850, but ain’t nobody got time for that. You may not be able to convince anyone that these leather mules from Shein are Gucci. But at $24, you don’t have to feel guilty about making the purchase.

Texas Shoulder Bag – Ego Shoes

Photo: Screen shot – egoshoes.comPhoto: Screen shot – egoshoes.com
Photo: Screen shot – Balenciago.comPhoto: Screen shot – Balenciago.com

Balenciaga’s Le Cagole XS Shoulder Bag will run you $2,300. The silver hardware and the removable pouch are cute and all, but not worth the outrageous price tag. If you want all of the style without spending a fortune, check out the Texas Shoulder Bag that’s $60.99 at Ego Shoes. The almost identical design will have all of your friends fooled. You even get the mirror and zip pouch.

Cadey Lace-Up Sneakers – Universal Thread (Target)

Photo: Screen shot – Target.comPhoto: Screen shot – Target.com
Photo: Screen shot – Zappos.comPhoto: Screen shot – Zappos.com

You can always count on Target for great looks for less. And at $24.99, these Lace-Up Sneakers from Universal Thread are the perfect comfy dupe for the higher priced Court Sneakers in Calf Hair from Madewell. Whether you wear them with a pair of jeans or a maxi dress, this neutral sneaker is guaranteed to be one of your go-to wardrobe staples this fall.

Camera Crossbody Bag – Universal Thread

Photo: Screen shot – Target.comPhoto: Screen shot – Target.com
Photo: Screen shot – MarcJacobs.comPhoto: Screen shot – MarcJacobs.com

At $25, Target’s Crossbody camera bag from Universal Thread is a great inexpensive dupe for the Marc Jacobs Snapshot bag. The Marc Jacobs version will run you $325. With all of those leftover coins, you might actually be able to cop yourself a new outfit to wear with your bag.

Women’s Comet Wooden Heel Mules – Time and Tru

Photo: Screen shot – Walmart.comPhoto: Screen shot – Walmart.com
Photo: Screen shot – JCrew.comPhoto: Screen shot – JCrew.com

If you think you can’t get hot fashion from Walmart, think again. These Wooden Heel Mules from Time and Tru are a great alternative to the more expensive variety you’ll find at J. Crew. The studded detail make the Walmart version look just as luxe as the J.Crew pair.

Faux Leather Leggings – Time and Tru

Photo: Screen shot – Walmart.comPhoto: Screen shot – Walmart.com
Photo: Screen shot – Spanx.comPhoto: Screen shot – Spanx.com

If you’re anything like me, you’ve never met a pair of leggings you didn’t like. And these faux leather leggings from Time and Tru should be a fall wardrobe staple. At $15.96, they are a fraction of the cost of the popular Spanx version.

Envelope Clutch – A New Day

Photo: Screen shot – Target.comPhoto: Screen shot – Target.com
Photo: Screen shot – Saksfifthavenue.comPhoto: Screen shot – Saksfifthavenue.com

This envelope clutch from Target’s A New Day line is the perfect little go-to bag for a night out. And at $20, it’s way cheaper than this $128 version from Rebecca Minkoff. The money you save will definitely cover another round at the bar.

Women’s Lug Combat Boots with Side Pouch – No Boundaries

Photo: Screen shot – Walmart.comPhoto: Screen shot – Walmart.com
Photo: Screen shot – Rackroomshoes.comPhoto: Screen shot – Rackroomshoes.com

If you’re looking for an inexpensive combat boot, check out this lug boot with side pouch from No Boundaries at Walmart. At less than $35, it’s cheaper than the $129 Thora-P lace up boot from Steve Madden and even cheaper than the $1,600 Prada version. How’s that for saving?

Halter Jumpsuit – Shein

Photo: Screen shot – Shein.comPhoto: Screen shot – Shein.com
Photo: Screen shot – Zara.comPhoto: Screen shot – Zara.com

Fashionistas on a budget know Shein is the place to go for designer dupes. And at $22, this halter satin jumpsuit is way less expensive than the $69.90 version from Zara. Now you can buy yourself a new night out look without the guilt.

Straight From The Root

Sign up for our free daily newsletter.

Latest from The Root

The Most Exciting Tours From Black Artists in 2026!

The Most Exciting Tours From Black Artists in 2026!

From Jay-Z and Jill Scott—a lot our music faves are hitting the road for some amazing tours. Let’s check out who and when! …
These Black Leading Men Aren't Just Paving the Way, They're Building New Roads

These Black Leading Men Aren’t Just Paving the Way, They’re Building New Roads

After Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler’s Oscar wins last weekend, we’re looking at more Black men who are leading in their respective fields …
Black Women Are Being Forced Into C-Sections—With The Court's Backing

Black Women Are Being Forced Into C-Sections—With The Court’s Backing

For Cherise Doyley and Brianna Bennett, the battle for bodily autonomy played out at their hospital bedsides, where virtual court hearings allowed judges to prioritize the perceived health of their unborn children over their right to refuse C-sections …
New Clues To What Jay-Z is Up To

New Clues To What Jay-Z is Up To

After nearly a decade since Jay-Z’s last album, rumors about new music are circulating from fans gearing up for his first performance in years …
Devastating Update for Billion-Dollar Whiskey Brand 'Uncle Nearest' Amid $100 Million Lawsuit

Devastating Update for Billion-Dollar Whiskey Brand ‘Uncle Nearest’ Amid $100 Million Lawsuit

The Black-owned brand was cemented as the fastest growing whiskey company in the U.S. Now, the legacy is at risk …
Solange's Son Julez Clears Up Speculation About His Sexuality

Solange’s Son Julez Clears Up Speculation About His Sexuality

Solange’s only child Julez Smith is opening up about his sexuality and sparking some discourse online! …
As War in Iran Rages, How Much Higher Can Gas Prices Really Get?

As War in Iran Rages, How Much Higher Can Gas Prices Really Get?

Gasoline prices are up in every state since the Iran war begin and they’re expected to rise …
News of Chuck Norris' Death Has Black Americans Looking at Him Through a New Lens

News of Chuck Norris’ Death Has Black Americans Looking at Him Through a New Lens

‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star Chuck Norris’ shocking death is sparking some interesting responses from Black folks online. We’ll tell you why! …
How Angela Davis Predicted The Modern Face Of Fascism in 1971

How Angela Davis Predicted The Modern Face Of Fascism in 1971

Fifty years prior to rumors of fascism circling President Trump, activist and philosopher Angela Davis made a spooky prediction about dictatorship in the U.S …
Black Woman Has a Multi-Million Dollar Victory in Discrimination Case Against City of Fresno

Black Woman Has a Multi-Million Dollar Victory in Discrimination Case Against City of Fresno

La-Kebbia “Kiki” Wilson sued the city of Fresno after she became the subject of horrific discrimination from her supervisor …
What We Know About Usher, Justin Bieber’s Confrontation at Beyonce’s Oscar Party

What We Know About Usher, Justin Bieber’s Confrontation at Beyonce’s Oscar Party

Usher was Justin Bieber’s mentor early on in his career, but now it seems like the two may not be in good-standing with each other. Let’s get into it! …
Why Postal Leaders Warn They Could Run Out of Money

Why Postal Leaders Warn They Could Run Out of Money

Millions of Americans depend on USPS to receive medicines, cast mail in ballots and even pay bills. Now, that’s all at risk …
New Development After Tuskegee University Coach Was Handcuffed, Escorted Out of Rival Morehouse Game

New Development After Tuskegee University Coach Was Handcuffed, Escorted Out of Rival Morehouse Game

Clips of a Tuskegee University coach handcuffed at Morehouse shocked the sports world; now, he’s making a move that could change everything …
5 Things You Didn't Know About Spike Lee & Denzel Washington's Films Over the Years

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Spike Lee & Denzel Washington’s Films Over the Years

In honor of Spike Lee’s birthday, let’s take a look at a few fun facts about him and frequent collaborator Denzel Washington that you may not have heard about! …
New Development in Miss Jamaica Health Status After Scary Fall at Miss Universe Pageant

New Development in Miss Jamaica Health Status After Scary Fall at Miss Universe Pageant

Gabrielle Henry, knowns as Miss Jamaica, suffered a frightening fall at the Miss Universe pageant in November 2025. And now we have major news on her condition …
Kamala Harris Claps Back at Nicki Minaj, and the Barbz Respond

Kamala Harris Claps Back at Nicki Minaj, and the Barbz Respond

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is letting it be known she’s not here for Nicki Minaj’s alleged spread of misinformation. Now, the Barbz are responding! …
Brandy Speaks Out After Ray J Goes Off on These Popular Rappers Over Dating Rumors

Brandy Speaks Out After Ray J Goes Off on These Popular Rappers Over Dating Rumors

After Shyne and Ma$e reminisce about 90s romance on the “It Is What It Is” podcast, Brandy shuts down the rumors and distances herself from her brother’s erratic behavior …
New Southwest Seating Policy Sparks Discrimination Concerns Among Black Women

New Southwest Seating Policy Sparks Discrimination Concerns Among Black Women

First, Southwest took away free checked bags and open seating. Now, Black women are speaking out on a new seating policy that allegedly causes more harm than good …
States Seeking Refund for 330,000 Businesses After Billions Lost to Trump's 'Illegal' Tariffs

States Seeking Refund for 330,000 Businesses After Billions Lost to Trump’s ‘Illegal’ Tariffs

Over 15 states penned a letter to Congress demanding they receive compensation following Trump’s “illegal” tariffs …
Former Magic City Dancer Enters the Conversation After NBA Cancels Collab With Atlanta Hawks

Former Magic City Dancer Enters the Conversation After NBA Cancels Collab With Atlanta Hawks

A former Magic City dancer just gave her two cents amid ongoing fallout from the Hawks’ collaboration with the popular strip club …