Thursday, December 13, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #28 - UNIF "Hellbound"




UNIF "Hellbound" in Black available at Tilted Sole ($225.00), Miss KL ($242.00) Solestruck ($244.95), Nasty Gal ($245.00)


Black Lace Chunky Heel Ankle Boot in Black/Black available at SammyDress ($23.95), Ebay ($52.77)


Chic Nubuck Lace Up Chunky Heel Booties in Black available at SammyDress ($35.70), Ebay ($52.77), Aliexpress ($52.99)

WHOA. WHOOOOOAAAA. These are both amazing! It's too bad I'm so wary of buying shoes overseas because the risk of the shoe not running true to size is too great, and sending them back would be a NIGHTMARE! If these weren't overseas, I'd probably have had them by last week. And the first dupes! All the goodness of the Hellbound, PLUS a sexy lace overlay? Man, I need these!

The only thing that sucks about these boots and asian apparel sites in general is that shoe sizes always seem to stop at 8. Lucky for me, I'm an 8, but it's super unfair for the majority of the people I know :c So, you've been warned about that.

I've been sitting on these guys for weeks, waiting patiently for a review that indicates how these fit and how comfortable they are, but still, nothing :c Come on, small-footed friends! Be my guinea pigs, hahaha!

What do you think? Are these awesome, or are they awesome?!

UPDATE: I did end up buying these, and they run pretty true to size, but a tad on the tight side. That could also be because my feet are slightly wide. But MAN, are they comfy! If you've been thinking about getting these, go for it! The quality isn't amazing, but I still recommend 'em!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #27 - Jeffrey Campbell "Homg Stud"




Jeffrey Campbell "Homg Stud" in Black Suede available at Solestruck ($134.95), Jildor Shoes ($135.00)



?? "Taylor-01" in Black available at UrbanOG ($37.20)

What an awesome dupe! I can only spot three differences: the rubber sole is a bit shinier on the UrbanOG shoe, the upper material is faux leather instead of suede, and the studs aren't as even. A big deal? Hell no. I think these are fabulous. Love this little nod to club kid culture! They're also available in Taupe Suede with Rose Gold studs, which are just as good!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #26 - Jeffrey Campbell "Edea"



Jeffrey Campbell "Edea" in Black available at Solestruck ($209.95 $144.95), Karmaloop ($206.00 $154.95), Nordstrom ($219.95), Revolve Clothing ($225.00), Urban Outfitters ($230.00)




Nature Breeze "Dana-08" in Black available at Make Me Chic ($32.50)

These dupes are the centerpoint of this week's should-I-buy-or-should-I-not dilemma. I was pretty late to the sneaker wedge party (or, "snedge", as the ladies in my FB shoe group call 'em, haha!). I flat-out didn't like the look of the first wave of styles that were being put out last spring. It wasn't until I actually saw a cheap pair on UrbanOG recently that I started to like them at all. I HAVE HIGH SNEDGE STANDARDS.

First of all, the wedge has got to be completely covered, or else what's really the point? They're supposed to add height in a sneaky manner, but if you can clearly see the wedge, it cheapens the whole look. I prefer them to look like actual sneakers, as opposed to a sneaker with a wedge lazily slapped on. (Example)

Second, the wedge has to be fairly wide. The pairs featuring a severely tapered wedge just look strange to me from behind (the UrbanOG ones I linked above are an exception because they are so cute in all other aspects).

Third, NO WEIRD COLORBLOCKING! I don't know about you guys, but I am really over this trend. I was over it before it started, but it looks like it's not going anywhere for a while. That makes me go :c (Example, especially the pink/black/cognac)

So, what do you guys think of this week's shoe? Kind of a huge departure from the kind of shoes I usually pick apart, but I think these are great. They look really comfy and are super similar to JC's version. I could see these in a violent showdown for my attention against my black and grey zebra print lo-top chucks. I'd get a ton of wear out of 'em.

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #25 - Christian Louboutin "Lady Max"



Christian Louboutin "Lady Max" in Black available at Barney's ($1,495.00)



Shoe Republic LA "Kirsten" in Black available at Go Jane ($35.20), AMI Clubwear ($39.99)

I did a double take when I first saw these ones. Some subtle differences, yes, but overall, still fabulous. The added platform is a nice bonus and is sure to make these just that much more comfortable. The silver stiletto is gorgeous. The only thing I really miss on the replicas is the glitter detail behind the spikes!

Happy Thanksgiving, everybody!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #24 - Jeffrey Campbell "Holy"




Jeffrey Campbell "Holy" in Black Silver available at ShopAKIRA ($244.90), Solestruck ($244.95), Nasty Gal ($245.00), Karmaloop ($254.00)






Privileged "Amazee" in Black available at Go Jane ($38.95), UrbanOG ($79.20), ZooShoo ($99.00), Shiekh Shoes ($99.99), FlyJane ($100)

I've been waiting for this embellished "Night Lita" replica for MONTHS since I saw them lurking in a picture with a bunch of other shoes on Privileged's Instagram (also waiting for what looks like a decent dupe of either the "Damsel Spike" or "Lita Spike"). When I saw them randomly pop up on Make Me Chic, I audibly gasped. These are a must-have for me. They're a super decent knockoff of the "Holy", featuring the speed-lace hooks made popular by UNIF's "Hellbound". Plus the black ones come with Hellbound-inspired rainbow laces! The studded cross detailing is a little wonky, but honestly, it doesn't bother me at all.

AHHHHH!!! These are going straight to the top of my Christmas list! Which ones, though, black or teal?!

What do you think? Yay or nay?

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #23 - Jeffrey Campbell "Night Walk" pt 2!






Jeffrey Campbell "Night Walk" in Black Pebble available at Solestruck ($169.95)



Vintage "Goddess-02" in Black Leatherette available at AMI Clubwear ($35.99 - restocked as of 4/14/13!)

The Goddess-02 is also available in Royal Blue Suede, Tan Suede, Red Suede, and Leopard Suede.

As you may know, I bought these in a fit of squee in September. I wore them out once to go bar hopping on Hewitt in Everett and was VERY pleased! Super comfy as you'd expect any decent wedge to be. Also, very similar in shape, and the faux leatherette is excellent quality. The only issue is that these run small (as do most shoes from the brand "Vintage")! Luckily, I had already read that thanks to UrbanOG and ordered an 8.5. Get a half size up!

See my Jeffrey Campbell "Night Walk" part one post!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #22 - Jeffrey Campbell "Vicious"




Jeffrey Campbell "Vicious" in Black available at Solestruck ($209.95), FlyJane ($220.00)




Vintage "Goddess-01" in Black Suede available at UrbanOG ($46.60), AMI Clubwear ($48.99), Zoo Shoo ($56.00)

These have been available for a little while, but I was sorta hesitant to post about them when they first made rounds. The shape is similar, but the curve in the wedge is more of a "crescent" shape than other heelless wedges in the Vintage "Goddess" series, making them look a bit... blocky. I'm not big on the entire shoe being made out of that faux suede, either. BUT, it is definitely a viable replica, and looks much more attractive on the foot. I just really wish they were made of a leatherette. I'll give 'em a C.

As with any shoes made by the brand "Vintage", please consider ordering a half size up!

What do you think?

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #21 - Jeffrey Campbell "Damsel Spike"





Jeffrey Campbell "Damsel Spike" in Black available at Solestruck ($189.95), Envi Shoes ($209.95)


Vintage "Berkeley-02" in Black available at AMI Clubwear ($40.99), ZooShoo ($46.00)

Every week, I have a particular shoe I'm lusting after and keep adding to my shopping cart and just letting it sit there until I make up my mind (or the best coupon code rolls around). The Berkeley-02s are this week's obsession. Now, all things considered, these really aren't that bad. While the height appears to be about an inch and a half off, the overall shape is basically the same. The sparse studs leave a little bit to be desired, but I can't think of a reason why you couldn't stick a few more in there to even it out. And if I can say one thing from experience about the brand "Vintage", it's that their faux leather is super high quality. Just wish these were taller!

So, what do you think? Yay or nay?

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #20 - Ash "Dean"




Ash "Dean" in Black/Silver Studs available at Solestruck ($384.95)






Bamboo "Italo-01" in Black available at YCMC ($39.99), GoJane ($41.80), UrbanOG ($43.90), Make Me Chic ($44.60)

These beauties were brought to my attention by my friend Chivahn, who has been mercilessly obsessing over them for what seems like months. I finally thought I'd try to track down a decent replica, and came across Bamboo's "Italo-01". Not too bad! I'm even considering a pair for myself since they add an effortless 'edge' and look so comfy. Not to mention there is no way in HELL I can afford the Dean's near $400 price tag! The studs are similarly placed (albeit lacking the random round studs) and the straps are pretty close. The only huge difference I can see is the heel and sole, which is shorter in the replica and also brown instead of black, and the overall height of the Italo-01 is shorter. But really, not bad. I'll give 'em a B.

What do you think? Are they close enough, or are you still holding out for the real thing?

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #19 - Jeffrey Campbell "99 Tie"







Jeffrey Campbell "99 Tie" in Black available at Solestruck ($114.95), Urban Outfitters ($148.00)






City Snappers "Jeanette" in Black available at AMI Clubwear ($27.99), YCMC ($29.99), Barefeet Shoes ($31.99)


Slightly differing shape, but definitely an acceptable copy. AMI Clubwear also has these in Purple/Pink snakeskin, Blue/Green snakeskin and Black woven (unfortunately, these have all sold out!).

Would you rock these?

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #18 - Jeffrey Campbell "Dusky"




Jeffrey Campbell "Dusky" in Fuchsia Suede SOLD OUT! However, sizes 6 and 7.5 are available in Nude at Nasty Gal ($188.00 $131.60) :D






"Freda-02" in Fuchsia available at UrbanOG ($45.20), Shiekh Shoes ($54.99)

WOW. How close are these? The Dusky is definitely a hard one to track down these days, especially in Fuchsia. I about died when these dupes showed up at UrbanOG this week! The ankle cuff is the same, the buckles are the same, and the straps at the vamp are the same. The only real difference I can see is in the shape of the wedge, which is far better-looking in a sculpted wedge, in my opinion. I dunno about you guys, but I think I'm in love, here!

Sound off in the comments!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #17 - Jeffrey Campbell "Lita" part 2!

EDIT 11/7/12: Please see my DWD Shoes review/warning here.


EDIT 10/25/12: I am no longer receiving responses when I inquire about my exchange. Please do not order from DWD Shoes/Discount Womens Dress Shoes!


EDIT 10/20/12: For the moment, I removed links to DWD Shoes and cannot in good conscience recommend that anyone order from the site, at least during this move they're going through. I initially had a good experience, but it wasn't until I had to return a pair of boots for a size up that I started to run into a lot of trouble. A friend has also been having the same issue, but with a MUCH larger order, so please either order with caution (you've been warned!) or wait until this move is all sorted out. Thanks, and I'm so sorry if you ordered and are having trouble after I sent you here :c






Jeffrey Campbell "Lita" in Red Distressed Leather SOLD OUT (retailed at $159.95)



Vintage "Francheska" in Red PU available at Sheikh Shoes ($26.99)

I recently happened upon the motherload of Francheskas in basically all variations imaginable at DWD Shoes (link removed due to shady business practices!) while Googling cheap shoes. I may have cried a little bit. They've got hot pink and leopard spiked, which I had never seen, and they've got all the gorgeous shades of aqua and deep turquoise that sold out in my size a long time ago on other bargain sites. I wound up ordering the Black Leatherette Spikes, because they'll go with everything. Unfortunately, I ordered in my usual size and they ended up being too small! I had to send them back, so I keep praying that the 8.5s don't sell out before I get my refund! In summation, when ordering any variation of the Francheska (or almost any shoe from the brands "Vintage" and "I ♥ U"), I'd recommend that you order a half size up :D

These prices are already so insanely low compared to the usual $50+ I'm used to seeing for these boots, but you can take an additional 10% off at DWD Shoes with the code CSGIFT!

Check out my Jeffrey Campbell "Lita" post part one!

Happy shopping! And leave me an 8.5 in the red spiked ones, will ya?!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)
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Thursday, September 20, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #16 - Jeffrey Campbell "Shadow Stud (Spike)"




Jeffrey Cambell "Shadow Stud (Spike)" in Black available at Solestruck ($234.95), ShopAKIRA ($254.90), Karmaloop ($255.00), Nasty Gal ($255.00), Jildor Shoes ($265.00)




Vintage "Goddess-05" in Black available at DFashionista Boutique ($60.00), UrbanOG ($66.90), Make Me Chic ($72.60)

I. WANT. THESE. SO BAD. But before I start writing love songs for these, let's discuss the important part- the differences. First is the obvious difference in material. The Shadow Studs are made of leather, whereas the Goddess-05 are a faux suede. The spikes in the front of the shoe have been removed and replaced with rivets (not too much ass-kicking can be accomplished in these), and the shape of the wedge is just slightly off. Not enough to deter ol' Bre. GIVE!

Happy shoe shopping :D

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #15 - Giuseppe Zanotti Swarovski and Spike Heelless Wedges




Giuseppe Zanotti Spiked Sculptural Wedges in Black available at Luisaviaroma ($3,025.00)


Spiked Heelless Platforms in Black available at Go Jane ($51.70)

While they aren't even in the same shoe genre, these wedges are no doubt inspired by the Giuseppe Zanotti swarovski and spike-encrusted heelless wedge bootie. No sh*t, I gasped when I saw these pop up on Go Jane. Adding them near the top of my ever-growing shoe shopping list :D

Go Jane is also giving away a pair! Check out their Facebook page!

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #14 - Jeffrey Campbell "Lita Spike"





Jeffrey Campbell "Lita Spike" in White available at Solestruck ($135.96), Urban Outfitters ($195.00)




Vintage "Francheska-03s" and "Francheska-07" in White available at UrbanOG ($30.20), Make Me Chic ($40.00), AMI Clubwear ($44.99), Zoo Shoo ($50.00)

Note: "03s" spikes and studs are more sparse, whereas the "07" are placed closer together like the original Lita Spike.

No white shoes after Labor Day? Pffftt. These are pretty decent! The only thing that has ever deterred me from the Francheskas has been the lack of curve where the arch meets the platform and the severe downward angle of the boot opening. I'm not sure I'm so picky anymore, seeing as how I've been actively seeking a pair in my size in the plain black (not the snakeskin) for what seems like weeks. Once I uncover those babies, let me tell you, they are MINE! (EDIT: Found 'em at ZooShoo ($52.00) and Boutique To You ($21.99), if you wanna snatch 'em up, too! <3)

What say you?


UPDATE 9/20: I finally got my filthy hands on a pair of the 07s in black leatherette and I can't say enough good things about the quality! However, they run small, so I definitely recommend ordering a half size up ;)

UPDATE 10/20/12: For the moment, I removed the links to DWD Shoes and cannot in good conscience recommend that anyone order from the site, at least during this move they're going through. I initially had a good experience, but it wasn't until I had to return a pair of boots for a size up that I started to run into a lot of trouble. A friend has also been having the same issue, but with a MUCH larger order, so please either order with caution (you've been warned!) or wait until this move is all sorted out. Thanks, and I'm so sorry if you ordered and are having trouble after I sent you here :c

UPDATE 10/25/12: I am no longer receiving responses when I inquire about my exchange. Please do not order from DWD Shoes/Discount Womens Dress Shoes!

UPDATE 11/8/12:
I just got my replacement boots today, after almost two months of waiting (read about that experience in full here). I requested a half size up since the original pair seemed to run small. Here's what I can say about the fit; not so good if you have wider feet. Mine are slightly wide, but the toe box is tiny and squeezes the bejesus out of my toes, and turns into the vamp at an awful angle. Also, the overall angle is bad. Have you ever put on a pair of heels and felt like you couldn't help but tilt forward? That's what these do, not to mention my ankles pop horribly when I walk in them. These boots are SO GORGEOUS, but I'm telling you, they may end up on my shelf as nothing more than eye candy, which breaks my heart (especially considering how long I've waited for them!). Hopefully they'll become more comfy once I break them in a bit, but it seems to be more of a structural issue than anything, so I'm not 100% on that. If you have narrow feet, you may have a different experience. Please don't let this deter you from buying other shoes from the brand "Vintage" or "I <3 U"! This isn't a normal case!


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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #13 - Jeffrey Campbell "Audrey Two"



Jeffrey Campbell "Audrey Two" in Dark Red available at Solestruck ($139.95)


Wild Rose "Ciela" in Red available at Make Me Chic ($16.80), AMI Clubwear ($19.99), Go Jane ($24.80), Ms. Heel ($32.95)

These are great! I really wasn't into the Audreys initially, to be totally honest, but now that I can get them for so cheap (and in SOOO many colors!), I'm all over them! The lucite trend doesn't go over well with me unless it's well executed, and these look pretty stunning on the foot.

Also available in black, tan, and nude/pink at Charlotte Russe and black and gold at YCMC ($19.97; use code BYTHETHROAT for 15% off)!

What do you think? Which colors are your must-haves in this design?

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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Knockoff Ninja #12 - Jeffrey Campbell "Rockstar" part 2


Jeffrey Campbell "Rockstar" in Black available at Envi Shoes ($107.97)

Dollhouse "Virus" in Black Multi available at Cicihot ($19.99), AMI Clubwear ($29.99)

You may remember I already featured these babies back in May after what seemed like an explosion in heelless replicas out of nowhere. Well, these are by far the most accurate knockoff I've seen of Jeffrey Campbell's gravity-defying wedge. They're pretty dead-on, from the black patent and metallic leatherette used, right down to the curve in the wedge. I also spy a decent-looking tread on the soles, which is greatly appreciated. Of course, I have them in my birthday wishlist in every color (Pink, Pink Multi, and Black)!

Soooo snatching these up, at least in the Black Multi. Are you all over these?

Happy shopping!

(Links UPDATED as of 4/24/13!)
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(This post originally appeared on bresuschrist.com)