Australian women are head over heels for a 'fancy' budget bag that has been compared to a $5,800 designer buy.
The weave shoulder bag ($18) from Kmart Australia is available in black and cream. Many have noticed a keen resemblance to Italian luxury fashion brand Bottega Veneta's Hop bag ($5,800). Both bags feature Bottega's signature intrecciato weave which was first used in the 1960s.
Australians have been tightening their purse strings in recent months as the country slowly climbs out of the cost of living crisis, which is why Kmart's bargain dupe of the trendy design has been such a hit. Women have dubbed it the 'perfect' bag that will instantly dress up any outfit - and its convenient size makes it a stylish go-to for a quick supermarket run or after-school pick up.
"I have the black Kmart bag - it's super comfortable on the shoulder and a good size," a mum said.
"Kmart is much better," another said, when comparing its tighter weave pattern to Bottega's.
'Oh my god, I love it. Gorgeous,' a fan added about the popular bag.
Similarly, another stylish $15 bag has been flying off Kmart shelves after shoppers noticed a similarity to a high-end designer bag costing almost $10,000. The Shimmer Bag ($15) has a unique curvilinear base and glitter details all around, including along the crossbody strap. Kmart's affordable product looks like Spanish fashion house Balenciaga's famous Hourglass XS handbag ($9,900).
While the luxury bag is suede calfskin and studded with rhinestones, Kmart's version is close enough to make anyone do a double take. Hundreds of shoppers shared their love for the budget brand online.
"I just went to Kmart to buy an umbrella and spent $200," one said. "Kmart is making me broke."
"I'm in love with Kmart bags," another wrote.
For shoppers who aren't fans of dupes, a little-known Australian retailer has started selling high-end brands for fractions of their original prices. The 'hidden gem' discount retailer offers designer buys from brands like Fendi, Dior, and Aje at affordable prices by selling old stock from previous seasons - described by shoppers as a 'clearance treasure hunt'.