Shopper frenzy for Big W’s $12 ‘dupe’ of $1200 designer shoe

The budget retailer is selling pair of shoes for just $12 that experts have spotted look strikingly similar to an expensive designer pair.

A Sydney fashion stylist has sparked a frenzy among shoppers after sharing their “dupe” for the cult Hermes sandals that retail for almost $1200.

Donny Galella, who regularly dresses some of Australia’s biggest stars, revealed Big W had started selling a pair of $12 sandals that looked strikingly similar to the designer shoes, which retail for $1155.

In the hours since posting, social media has been filled with videos from shoppers rushing to “secure the goods”.

Donny, who doesn’t shy away from using expensive designer pieces when styling clients, said he also loves to give options to those whose budgets don’t stretch that far.

“With the cost of living crisis, many of us are looking for thrifty ways to still look chic and stylish on a budget,” he told news.com.au.

“These sandals give you a that designer look for less.”

Celebrity stylist Donny Galella spotted a $12 ‘dupe’ of the cult Hermes ‘Oran Sandal’ which retail for almost $1200. Picture: Supplied

Since sharing the find on social media, Aussies have been rushing to buy them. Picture: Supplied

Many have remarked on how similar the “Cut Out Band Slide” from Big W looks to the French brand’s which feature the iconic “H” cut-out are made from calfskin in Italy.

While the budget version is made from a much cheaper synthetic material, those who have purchased the $12 item have described them as “comfy”.

“It will save you from spending [$1155] and come in a few colours,” Donny explained on TikTok.

“They also come in black and bone.”

Brisbane woman Abbey O’Hagan shared her joy after snagging a pair of the “perfect dupes”, stating they are as comfortable as they are stylish.

“Big W has come through with Hermès sandal dupes,” she said in a video which has been viewed almost 400,000 times to date,

“Oh my god they are so cute and so nice. They’re literally the same... Obviously they aren’t the exact same but they are cute dupes for $12.

“So comfy, wore them all day yesterday.”

Abbey O’Hagan loves the affordable alternative, though some remarked they were ‘hideous’. Picture: Supplied

She bought them in black and brown. Picture: Supplied

The affordable option sent many rushing to the shops, but some weren’t impressed, claiming the sandals were “hideous”.

Most though were excited a similar sandal was on sale that didn’t require a second job to pay for.

“I got two colours too. They are actually so comfy. And so cute,” one user wrote.

“Thank you love, literally I’m going to get one tomorrow,” another declared.

“They’re so cute, love them,” someone else mused.

Abbey wasn’t the only one raving about the shoes, though some pointed out stock was already low, stating the trendy footware was “sold out” at their local Big W.

Shoppers can check stock availability at their local stores online.

Donny also recently announced he had teamed up with the McGrath Foundation and The Iconic to launch the “McGrath Pink Edit” capsule collection.

The stylist’s edit will help raise money for the cancer charity’s Breast Care Nurses during October, seeing 10 per cent of sales donated.

“Today marks the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month which many of you know is a cause close to my heart after losing my beautiful sister to the disease 11 months ago,” he said on Saturday.

“Your next outfit can make a difference so it’s time to get shopping and embrace the power of pink to support the McGrath Foundation with me.”

Originally published as Shopper frenzy for Big W’s $12 ‘dupe’ of $1200 designer shoe