First off, let me tell ya, finding a *perfect* dupe is kinda like finding a unicorn. But there are def some contenders that capture that same vibe. That slouchy, effortless cool? Yeah, we can get close. I saw something at Anthropologie the other day that, while not an *exact* copy, had that same textured, almost-too-big-to-be-practical-but-still-kinda-amazing thing going on. Plus, Anthropologie stuff usually holds up pretty well, so you’re not just buying something that’ll fall apart after a month.
And then there’s & Other Stories. I’ve heard whispers about their pouch being a dead ringer for Meghan Markle’s fave BV clutch (the OG Pouch, obvs). I haven’t personally seen it, but anything Meghan Markle approves of is usually a win in my book. Plus, & Other Stories is generally pretty good quality for the price.
Okay, and I gotta shout out Steve Madden. Apparently, they have a “Nikki Soft Clutch Crossbody” that’s giving major Pouch vibes. I mean, come on, “Soft Clutch” is practically screaming “Bottega Veneta inspired,” right? I’m not gonna lie, I’m a little wary of Steve Madden sometimes ’cause their stuff can be hit or miss, but if you’re looking for something super affordable, it might be worth a look.
But here’s the thing, guys: Don’t expect perfection. A $50 dupe isn’t going to have the same buttery-soft leather or that *je ne sais quoi* quality of the real deal. But it *can* give you the look, and that’s sometimes all that matters, right? I mean, let’s be real, most people aren’t gonna be close enough to tell the difference anyway.
And honestly, I think sometimes the dupes are even *better* than the original. Like, I saw this one on Etsy (I think?) that was made of woven straw. It wasn’t *exactly* a Pouch dupe, but it had that same general shape and vibe, but it was, like, totally unique. So don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box!
