If you’re ready to step out this spring with style (and strut around with comfort), an open-toed block-heeled sandal is most likely in your online shopping cart. One of the most popular block heels has been the Dolce Vita braided double strap heel sandals. But if you’re not sure you want to spend $120 or are hesitant about buying yet another pair of shoes, we’ve found the best style similar to the Dolce Vita Paily Heels at Target—for only $29.99—to help you decide. Read on for more ways they compare!
Women’s Dolce Vita Paily Braided Double Strap High Heel Sandals, $120, Bloomingdales
Price: $120.00 The benefits:
Fits true to size, so no need to worry about sizing up or down to figure out your shoe size.Synthetic upper and lining, plus a rubber sole so you don’t slip.Flattering square open-toe style.Available in two neutral colors that will match your basics in your wardrobe: Caf Stella (a brown, mocha shade) and Ivory Stella (shown above).
The try-on: Even though the Dolce Vita Paily Braided Double Strap shoe is a 3.2" versus the Target Fiona Heels which are 2.25" inches, I felt like I could run in them! Right away, I noticed how rich the synthetic lining looked, and with the exquisite braiding detail on top of it… this is a win! I’ve noticed my Dolce Vitas always last a long time and wear pretty darn well. The takeaways: I love how the braiding is a thicker weave in the Dolce Vita sandals. It makes more of a statement than a smaller weave like the Target dupe.
Women’s Fiona Heels - A New Day, $29.99, Target
Price: $29.99 The benefits:
Faux-leather finish so you can wear these around and beat them up without worrying about damaging the fabric.Easy to maintain and clean with mild detergent at home. No need to send to the dry cleaner!Available in two shades—chic black and neutral tan.
The try-on: I’m truly a fan of the square open front style since I think it’s super flattering. I was bummed this Dolce Vita dupe didn’t have a square-shaped toe, but other than that, these felt way more practical. They do feel a little more plasticity and not as soft as the more expensive Dolce Vitas, but I’d be much more willing to wear them out, versus worrying about nicking the fabric. The takeaways: I’ve tested a ton of block heels and wedges, and I loved both of these so much because of the comfort factor. When it comes to everyday activities, I’d feel more at ease wearing the cheaper Dolce Vita dupe by Target with a lower heel. The verdict: Both of these come in two different colors that match any ensemble, have double braided straps and a block heel. Unlike the Dolce Vita Paily Braided Double Strapped Sandals that fit true to size, you should size down with Target. If you want ease with a new high heel shoe this spring, I’d go with the Target dupe because it’s more practical—not only in height but in the price. Next up, how does the Wolf Gourmet $595 Pro-Performance Blender stack up to NutriBullet’s $92 blender?