Are Furniture Dupes Worth the Hype? Here's What Designers Have to Say

Craving the latest must-have item but don’t have the budget? Whether it’s a luxury handbag or the hottest sneakers, it’s not long before an affordable knockoff hits the market. We’ve officially entered an era where fashion and beauty dupes—like this Supergoop alternative or these Lululemon-inspired joggers—are widely embraced, but what about furniture? Are dupes still a good idea in the world of home decor? The answer might surprise you. Here's everything you need to know about furniture dupes and the opinions of interior designers.

What Exactly Are Furniture Dupes?

Michele Iapicco from Iapicco Design Studio describes a dupe as 'a similar or identical item in terms of style and feel, but available at a significantly lower price.'

RH's Cloud Sofa is one of the most frequently replicated furniture items—and for good reason. While it's undeniably gorgeous, with a starting price of about $1200 for just one section, it’s not within most people's budget. However, if you want the same look at a more affordable price, you’ll find dupes across a wide price range, from West Elm at the higher end to Amazon at the lower end.

The challenge with these RH dupes, and similar furniture replicas, is that their quality may not align with the standards set by the original brand. 'High-end furniture is crafted using premium materials and precise craftsmanship,' says interior designer Amy Switzer. 'Dupes and knock-offs, however, might use less expensive materials and lower-quality construction, resulting in a shorter lifespan. While dupes may resemble the originals from a distance, they often lack the intricate details that contribute to the luxury and overall aesthetic of high-end pieces.'

Quality furniture is often seen as an investment, with some pieces even appreciating over time. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for dupes, as Switzer explains: 'Dupes generally do not retain their value and could end up being a financial setback.'

The Ethics of Dupes

Then, there’s the ethical aspect to consider. 'The use of dupes undermines the authenticity of design, potentially diminishing the perceived value of original works and the unique elements they bring to a space,' says Switzer. 'While there might be practical reasons for opting for dupes, such as budget limitations, these concerns underscore the potential drawbacks that can impact quality, ethics, and professional reputation.'

The Case for Dupes

As previously noted, one of the main challenges with furniture dupes is the typically noticeable drop in quality. However, there are situations where the long-term durability of furniture isn’t a priority, and aesthetic appeal takes precedence. For instance, if you’re renting a home temporarily, investing in furniture that you’ll keep for years may not be a wise choice. In such cases, all you might need is something that will last for a couple of years.

'If you have young children at home and are concerned about items breaking easily, or if it’s a super trendy piece that you’ll only want to display for a limited time, that’s a good reason to go for a dupe,' says Iapicco.

Finally, there are instances where the authentic piece may not fit your space, and a dupe could be the only way to achieve the desired look. So, are furniture dupes worth it? It all depends. There’s a time and place for everything, and ultimately, you must make the right decision based on your needs, budget, and home.