Our team is dedicated to finding and telling you more about the web’s best products. If you purchase through our links, we may receive a commission. Our editorial team is independent and only endorses products we believe in.
We like
We don't like
Even if your chosen aesthetic is something that leans traditionally feminine (like Clean Girl or Coquette), chances are you’ve found yourself coveting a pair of shoes or a handbag in the past few seasons that is quite, well, ugly. You’re not alone. Ugly-chic is everywhere and one of its most popular champions is the social media-forsaking brainchild of media’s favorite twins: The Row.
You might have your eye on the Olsens’ orthopedic-looking ballet flats or find yourself biding your time, waiting for a sale on the asymmetrical Half Moon bag — assuming the price point is not totally off-putting. If you like this look but not enough to spend thousands on it, we’ve curated a guide of shoes and handbags that are more budget-friendly (though, not cheap per se). The Row’s minimalist, architectural aesthetic that sometimes looks like things you’ve seen in your grandma’s closet has been emulated by more accessible brands, so take a look at our picks and see if you’re actually into the style or if it’s just the aspirational element.
Our Editor’s Favorite The Row Dupes
The best dupes for The Row shoes and handbags in 2026 include:
- Best Overall Row Shoe Dupe: Madewell, The Remy Mary Jane Flat ($138)
- Best Row Handbag Dupe: Quince, Italian Leather Triple Compartment Work Tote ($170)
- Most Affordable Dupe: TKEES, Boyfriend ($75)
- Splurge-Worthy Alternative: Coach, Brooklyn Shoulder Bag ($495)
These picks mirror The Row’s minimalist, architectural aesthetic… without the $2k–$3k price tag.
It took me a moment to fall in love with these wicked witch shoes — but fall in love I did. The square toe, the slip-on style, the 100% Italian leather — each of these traits by itself would usually turn me off but together, they somehow work. They demonstrate the power of ugly-chic by adding a purposeful sophistication to otherwise contrived sundresses and maxi skirts. And this is to say nothing of their tremendous comfort, which also helped convert me. This is a summer shoe that doesn’t expose your toes (think of the moments when you’re in dire need of a pedicure) — every woman needs at least one pair of these slingbacks.
We like
We don't like
Square toe is a recurring theme in the world of ugly cool shoes. This clunky shape requires styling attention but when you do it right, it lends a tough-girl feel to even as feminine a silhouette as the ballet flat.
We like
We don't like
So The Row really sells a leather flip flop for $890. Yes, it’s a leather sole and straps – but still. You can get the same look (if you want?) for significantly less.
We like
We don't like
Structured but not stiff is what The Row’s most famous handbag is known for. This work bag from Quince gestures in a similar direction with a laptop sleeve and protective metal feet.
We like
We don't like
The Row is known for a Mary Jane or two and these old-school-nurse-but-make-it-fashion MJs feel like something you’d see (but not be allowed to photograph) walking down the runway.
We like
We don't like
You didn’t think we were going to omit a slip-on leather mule, right? With the right outfit (and a good enough prune), this shoe could get you mistaken for Mary-Kate.
We like
We don't like
I will never be able to disassociate slouchy leather hobos from the Olsens (circa 2008). This ultra-supple leather purse has a faux tortoise buckle and a soft sash so it doesn’t feel too too bare bones.
We like
We don't like
A knotted mule is one of the least adventurous and most elegant silhouettes that you’ll find at The Row. Sometimes you just want something pretty to wear to a friend’s wedding.
We like
We don't like
I feel like what often makes The Row feel like The Row is that the designs make you go: But why? Why this heel height? Why are the straps this width? Why is there an ankle strap? But then you just run with it.
We like
We don't like
Compared to The Row’s Tote Hook Bag ($1,950) — not a bad dupe. For white leather that is going to be discolored in a matter of days (if not hours), maybe the smarter choice is the cheaper one?
We like
We don't like
Kitten heel? No thank you. 70% of foot coverage? Usually my least favorite amount. But miraculously these are giving rich mom with an impeccably designed home (that still feels lived-in): the Kelly Wearstler of shoes.
We like
We don't like
Just what you need: more ballet flats that look like a cross between an elfin shoe and a disposable spa slipper. The silver is sort of perfect, no?
We like
We don't like
The Row’s Best Dupes, Source By Our Editors
It took me a moment to fall in love with these wicked witch shoes — but fall in love I did. The square toe, the slip-on style, the 100% Italian leather — each of these traits by itself would usually turn me off but together, they somehow work. They demonstrate the power of ugly-chic by adding a purposeful sophistication to otherwise contrived sundresses and maxi skirts. And this is to say nothing of their tremendous comfort, which also helped convert me. This is a summer shoe that doesn’t expose your toes (think of the moments when you’re in dire need of a pedicure) — every woman needs at least one pair of these slingbacks.
We like
We don't like
Square toe is a recurring theme in the world of ugly cool shoes. This clunky shape requires styling attention but when you do it right, it lends a tough-girl feel to even as feminine a silhouette as the ballet flat.
We like
We don't like
So The Row really sells a leather flip flop for $890. Yes, it’s a leather sole and straps – but still. You can get the same look (if you want?) for significantly less.
We like
We don't like
Structured but not stiff is what The Row’s most famous handbag is known for. This work bag from Quince gestures in a similar direction with a laptop sleeve and protective metal feet.
We like
We don't like
The Row is known for a Mary Jane or two and these old-school-nurse-but-make-it-fashion MJs feel like something you’d see (but not be allowed to photograph) walking down the runway.
We like
We don't like
You didn’t think we were going to omit a slip-on leather mule, right? With the right outfit (and a good enough prune), this shoe could get you mistaken for Mary-Kate.
We like
We don't like
I will never be able to disassociate slouchy leather hobos from the Olsens (circa 2008). This ultra-supple leather purse has a faux tortoise buckle and a soft sash so it doesn’t feel too too bare bones.
We like
We don't like
A knotted mule is one of the least adventurous and most elegant silhouettes that you’ll find at The Row. Sometimes you just want something pretty to wear to a friend’s wedding.
We like
We don't like
I feel like what often makes The Row feel like The Row is that the designs make you go: But why? Why this heel height? Why are the straps this width? Why is there an ankle strap? But then you just run with it.
We like
We don't like
Compared to The Row’s Tote Hook Bag ($1,950) — not a bad dupe. For white leather that is going to be discolored in a matter of days (if not hours), maybe the smarter choice is the cheaper one?
We like
We don't like
Kitten heel? No thank you. 70% of foot coverage? Usually my least favorite amount. But miraculously these are giving rich mom with an impeccably designed home (that still feels lived-in): the Kelly Wearstler of shoes.
We like
We don't like
Just what you need: more ballet flats that look like a cross between an elfin shoe and a disposable spa slipper. The silver is sort of perfect, no?
We like
We don't like
A seasonal stalwart is the raffia tote bag. Whether you buy an ultra-luxury version or a discount bargain one, you basically get the same look. It’s hard to elevate raffia far beyond beach bag so don’t break the bank if you don’t have to.
We like
We don't like
How We Chose These Dupes
- Similarity to iconic The Row silhouettes
- Quality of materials (leather grade, stitching, structure)
- Price-to-value ratio
- Comfort and wearability
- Customer reviews and long-term durability
Extra Tips: How to Make Your Row Dupes Look High-End
- Neutral Color Palette: Stick to muted shades like cream, taupe, and black to mimic The Row’s minimalist aesthetic.
- Pair With Structured Basics: Wide-leg trousers, sleek blazers, and silk blouses elevate the “ugly-chic” look.
- Mix Textures: Leather with suede or metal accents adds depth and sophistication.
- Minimal Accessories: Let your shoes or bag be the statement piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Row known for?
Minimalist silhouettes, sculptural shapes, ultra-luxury craftsmanship.
Are Row dupes worth buying?
Absolutely! Many brands replicate The Row aesthetic with durable materials at a fraction of the cost.
What shoes are similar to The Row?
Mary Janes, mules, minimalist sandals, square-toe flats.
What bag looks like The Row Half Moon bag?
The Harlee Shoulder Bag from JW Pei is the closest and under $100!
Why You Should Trust Us
At The Quality Edit, we take our recommendations seriously. Our team spends hours researching products, comparing materials and formulas, analyzing customer reviews, and testing items in real life. We only highlight products we genuinely believe in and would use ourselves. We don’t do fluff, and we don’t do filler. Just honest, well-vetted picks that earn their place on the list.
About the Author
Sanibel Lazar is a NYC-based writer who, like Christian in Clueless, wants everything to be beautiful and interesting. Her thoughts on style, beauty, and wellness have appeared in New York magazine, ELLE, Air Mail, and more. Her industry experience, product fluency, and editorial rigor ensure every recommendation is thoughtful, researched, and rooted in real-world expertise.
_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1)_(1).webp)
.jpeg)


















