The Look for Less

I have recently purchased two pairs of shoes that I think qualify for the designer inspired or looked for less category. As I looked at my purchases and the more expensive shoes that clearly inspired the design concept, I began to think about fashion designers, creativity, inspiration and the concept of an original design idea. Does originality really exist in fashion anymore or do we look to the past and what is currently happening around us to inspire new trends and ideas for how to dress and style ourselves? Everyone is inspired by or looks to someone or something for inspiration so is it OK for retailers and designers to be inspired by other designers?

Alexander Wang Danica and Shoemint Garbo both currently sold out 

There is always strong debate in fashion about wearing knock offs and designer looks for less. I am not nor will I ever be a fan of wearing a knock off item such as a fake designer handbag. I would much rather spend my money on something nice with out the high end label name than rock a fake. I try as best I can to live within my means. That does not mean that I do not splurge and buy designer items from time to time but if I can find something nice with a similar look for a fraction of the cost then I am all for it.  

London Trash Phoenix Snake Sandal and Shoedazzle Whitley currently sold out

Similar options here and here 

I was recently reading an article on fashionbombdaily.com where designer Isabal Marant talked about how she felt about knock offs of her now famous wedge sneaker. I for one think that is great that more mid-range affordable designers and labels take the same concept that someone like Isabal Marant sells and makes it available for the mainstream consumer who make not be able to afford a $600 or more shoe. Do I think it is offensive to blatantly steal another person's designs or idea and market it as if it is your own? Yes. However I do not think that Ms. Marant created the wedge sneaker.

Isabel Marant (sell out quickly but can be found at netaporter.com, barneys.com or ebay.com) Steve Madden Hilight

Rocking my Steve Madden Highlights on a casual shopping day (excuse the messy fitting room lol!)
Outfit Details:
Hat-Old TJ Maxx
Camo Shirt Jacket- Old Navy 
Dark Navy Jegging Jeans- Torrid
White Boy Friend T-Shirt- Target
Steve Madden Hilights
Celine' Croc Stamped Phantom 

 I am a fan of her shoe, but for myself, a person who does not wear sneakers that often, I would opt for a more affordable version and splurge on something that I could get more use out of. Hence my purchase of the Steve Madden Hilight. Some may chastise me for this, but I say to each lady her own wallet and budget lol! I do own quite a few designer items but I usually reserve my high end purchases for items I deem to be classics that will stand the test of time and last me multiple seasons, not trendy items that can quickly go out of style after one or two seasons, making me feel like I have wasted my hard earned money. I could go on and on about this much debated topic and my opinion on it but I would rather know what you all think. Is it OK to wear "knock offs" or a look for less/designer inspired item? What are your thoughts and opinions on the matter?

Images courtesy of Google Images (luckymag.com and sundayglamour.blogspot.com)