Part 5/12:
Historian Angeline, a veteran fashion industry observer, explained that dupe culture is rooted in a long history of imitation and adaptation—dating back to Charles Frederick Worth’s era of couture, which was known for dealing with copycats by labeling and branding. The advent of ready-to-wear and fast fashion further decoupled design from exclusivity, turning high-end fashion into accessible, mass-produced pieces.
Social media amplifies this process by making trend cycles shorter and more intense, enabling brands to swiftly produce and promote affordable alternatives. As a result, consumers are more willing to purchase cheaper alternatives, often without stigma, as these products are now deemed acceptable and even celebrated online.