Eyeing Golden Goose Sneakers But Don't Want to Spend $495+? Here Are 10 Dupes

It’s difficult to recall a recent time when a seemingly straightforward pair of shoes caused such an online uproar as Italian-luxury brand Golden Goose Deluxe Brand (GGDB) sneakers. A new pair of these kicks, even though they don’t appear very new, can cost anywhere from $495 to upwards of two grand for ultra-decorated styles. This high price point has been the topic of much digital discourse, given that most Golden Goose models come with a pre-worn appearance that would make many sneakerheads gasp. That’s part of their appeal though, to fans of the brand; they’re all handmade and hand-distressed in Italy, so each pair is truly an original. So finding a good Golden Goose dupe is tricky.

Golden Goose’s particular one-of-a-kind aesthetic has a few other key design elements. A leather base is often accented with any number of contrasting fabrics and accessories. Fun prints and novelty materials are typically used on the heel cap and tongue pieces to give a vintage patchwork look to some styles, while logos and embellishments give others an indulgent European twist. These wide parameters leave a lot of room for the designers to dream up undeniably unique works of footwear craftsmanship. Despite the brand’s variety and flair, nearly all styles include their ergonomic heel shape, signature star motif, and controversial lived-in finish. So, is their one-of-a-kind status worthy of the price point? That’s for you to decide! While you mull it over, here are the 10 best Golden Goose dupes for those definitely opting for a budget-friendly choice.

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10 Best Golden Goose Dupes

1. PARTY Fashion Star Sneaker, $40-$55 at Amazon

If you love the sleek leather sneaker look but aren’t here for the distressed trend, these affordable Golden Goose lookalikes are an easy purchase. Make sure you tie them the Golden Goose way for the full effect; a knot or two at the base of each lace once they’re cinched tight. Check out the brand’s site for a visual example, or look to TikTok for some savvy hacks.
PARTY Fashion Star Sneaker, $40-$55 at Amazon

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2. Journee Collection Comfort Foam Adair Sneaker, $59.99 at Zappos

This knockoff option embodies the Italian decadence that some of the more embellished Golden Goose styles have achieved. The sole is slightly scuffed so you get the lived-in effect while still feeling like you just bought new shoes. Plus, the Journee Collection Comfort Foam™ is probably as close as you can get to designer-level comfort without spending more than you would on a pair of Golden Goose laces. Journee Collection Comfort Foam Adair Sneaker, $59.99 at Zappos

3. Steve Madden Rezume Sneaker, $45-90 at Amazon

Steve Madden has mastered the art of making dupes for fashion’s hottest footwear trends, and once again they’ve delivered with the Rezume Sneaker. As far as Golden Goose alternatives go, this one hits all of the design elements without breaking the bank. Contrast leather, a cut-out star detail, and scuffed-up soles make this a wallet-conscious pick that sacrifices none of the GGDB style. Steve Madden Women's Rezume Sneaker, $45-90 at Amazon

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4. Sam Edelman Josi Sneakers, $120 at Zappos

For shoppers looking to take loose inspiration from the Golden Goose style while simultaneously investing in a quality classic shoe, this Sam Edelman pair is a must-have. Drawing on the retro-collegiate qualities that some of the more decorated GGDB pairs have, these streamlined sneakers are a balance of trend-forward and sophisticated. Sam Edelman Josi Sneakers, $120 at Zappos

Related: TikTok Made Me Buy It

5. Nine West Elevate Sneaker, $79 at Nordstrom

While the star motif is a nearly universal design element of Golden Goose, a few styles do exist without the signature detail. If you’re into the weathered finish but aren’t keen on the cutesy shape, this dupe was made for you. These sneakers notably have the subtle raised heel sole that GGDB has become known for. Many fans of the brand have mentioned how comfortable this ergonomic shape is. Nine West Elevate 3 Sneakers, $79 at Nordstrom

6. Vintage Havana Kate Sneakers, $70-125 at Amazon

If there is one dupe that rises above the rest, it’s these sneakers by Vintage Havana. With more design elements and detail than most other dupes, this pair achieves the look and feel of many of the high-dollar Golden Goose varieties. The mixing of animal prints, metallic finishes and worn-in leather creates a textural backdrop for logo and brand details that could easily pass as authentic GGDB to the untrained eye. Vintage Havana Kate Sneakers, $70-125 at Amazon

7. Gola Animal Print Sneakers, $80 at Amazon

While these trainers don’t have the distressing, the subtle raised heel, or even the star, their style inspiration is distinctly Golden Goose. The use of the textural tiger print stripes paired with the faux leather chartreuse heel cap screams Italian richness. And for roughly a fifth of the luxury model, these funky sneakers are unlike anything you already own. Gola Animal Print Sneakers, $80 at Amazon

8. YYZ Star Sneaker Mules, $28 at Amazon

This Golden Goose dupe has the classic star motif, contrast leather components, and pre-tied laces, all for only $28. The big difference? Instead of being a sneaker, it's cool a slide, so you can take them off and on with ease. YYZ Star Sneaker Mules, $28 at Amazon

9. Steve Madden Starling Sneaker, $70 at Amazon

If you liked the other Golden Goose dupes from Steve Madden but didn't love the metallic shine, the Starling may be for you. You still get the scuffed-up soles and white and blush color palette, but more suede and perforation. Steve Madden Starling Sneaker, $70 at Amazon

10. The Rizzo Sneaker, $80 at Amazon

The essence of Golden Goose is the statement-making stars, and these sneakers by Katy Perry definitely have those. Reviews say to go up a half or full size, but that they love how fun the sparkles are. The Rizzo Sneaker, $80 at Amazon

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