Faux Fancy
Who doesn’t love a bargain? I like to save as much as anyone else (especially right now), but I don’t want to do so at the expense of quality. I believe products don’t have to be expensive to be good, but I’m also done settling for cheap stuff that doesn’t deliver—another waste of money.
The three products I picked this week all provide great value while still looking and feeling luxe. They’re also not trendy—no over-the-top details or bizarre ingredients—so you’ll be happy to have them around for a while.
What is your favorite low-cost dupe for a higher-end product? Your secret’s safe with me.
1. The INKEY List Omega Water Cream (£9.99)
I admit was skeptical of The INKEY List. In my previous experiences, low-cost products typically contained unwanted ingredients I was trying to avoid or weren’t enjoyable to use (think pilling or stickiness). But this fast-absorbing gel moisturizer has quickly become a step in my skincare routine I look forward to. Made without oil, silicone or fragrance, the main ingredients are omega fatty acids, glycerin, betaine and niacinamide to balance and hydrate the skin. It reminds me of the Water Cream from Tatcha, layers beautifully with other products and humbled this skincare snob.
2. MANGO Leather-effect Straight Trousers (£45.99)
Faux leather is a staple in my wardrobe. It just makes me feel sexy, confident and a bit cool. Be it a dress, top or bottom, adding a piece of faux leather helps me pull my outfit together in minutes. These trousers from MANGO have been one of my favorite buys as of late because of the relaxed but not baggy, cropped, straight-leg fit. Snug around the waist, hips and bum, they help elongate the leg and work just as well with sneakers as they do with heels. And unlike real leather, they can be tossed in the washing machine without worry.
3. Oba Home Marble Wedge Bookends (£44)
Marble home accessories add a high-end touch to any space, but they can be very pricey. I found Oba Home on Etsy when I was looking for a new set of coasters for our coffee table, and purchased a set in the same black marble as these bookends Sadly, the coasters are no longer available, but they looked and felt so much more expensive than they were I had to check out what else this local shop offered. Their curated collection of products includes jewelry and baby items. These bookends are also available in onyx if you prefer a lighter color palette.
Something to think about …
I’ve talked before about my love of buying designer items secondhand. There’s so much good stuff out there just waiting for a new life in your closet. I’ve recently been working with Cudoni to list some items I’m no longer using and it’s been a seamless experience from start to finish. And their selection? Amazing.
Last week on MIDDI …
