By: Amelia Wolfe
As people try to save money but still keep up with trends, dupe culture has become a big part of how we shop. Social media and online stores make it really easy to find cheaper versions of popular products. It’s not just about price either. It’s about whether the cheaper option feels good enough compared to the original.
To explore this trend, here are Ad Club’s Top Dupe Comparisons and how they are impacting the original brands.
1. Amazon Bodysuit vs. Skims
Amazon has a ton of bodysuits that look almost exactly like Skims. They are way cheaper but still give a similar fit and style. This makes people question whether Skims is really worth the higher price or if they are mostly paying for the brand name. It can make Skims feel less exclusive, especially for college students.
2. Lululemon Scuba Hoodie vs. Costco
The Lululemon Scuba hoodie is super popular and seen as a “must-have,” but Costco has made a hoodie that looks really similar for way less money. This shows how fast trends can be copied. It also makes people think about whether Lululemon is worth it for the quality, or if it’s more about the name and hype.
3. Billie Eilish Fragrances vs. Finery
Target’s Finery perfumes are known for smelling really similar to more expensive perfumes, including Billie Eilish’s. These dupes make it easier for people to get the same kind of scent without spending a lot. This can take away some of the “special” feeling from the original brand.
4. Dyson Airwrap vs. Shein / TikTok Shop Dupes
The Dyson Airwrap is known for being high quality but also really expensive. Dupes from Shein and TikTok Shop are much cheaper and still give a similar look when styling hair. Even if they are not as durable, a lot of people feel like they work well enough. This puts pressure on Dyson to prove why their product is worth the high price.
Wrapping Up the Dupe Debate
Dupe culture is changing how people think about shopping. Cheaper options are making trends more accessible, and a lot of people are realizing they do not always need the original to get the same look.
At the same time, original brands still matter for quality, trust, and image, but they now have to compete more than ever with affordable alternatives.
Because things get real, real fast. 