Are you a brand snob or the knock-off queen? Well, here at INM, we like to think we’re a little bit of both. We’ve got you covered with the latest trending retail brands and amazing quality alternatives because, hey, it’s all about practicality, right? We all have our favorite branded items that we can’t live without. What’s yours?
Are you the type who exclusively sips from a YETI tumbler, with lips never touching anything else? Or perhaps you refuse to entrust your precious laptop to any backpack other than Osprey? Maybe a North Face jacket is your only defense against frostbite. We get it. These branded items hold a special place in our hearts.
Now, imagine the impact of receiving your beloved item as a corporate gift. Gifting retail brands automatically adds perceived value and creates a stronger emotional connection. It’s perfect for those moments when a high level of appreciation or acknowledgement is warranted. But what if you want to achieve that same impact and engagement while working with a tighter budget? That’s where the dupes come in.
[“dupe” – short for duplicate – an inexpensive (yet effective) alternative to an expensive product]For the past year, dupes have taken the TikTok world by storm, and our industry is no exception. For almost every popular retail product out there, there’s a corresponding dupe. These nifty alternatives have become go-to choices when working with lower budgets. They allow you to stay on trend and stand out from your competition without breaking the bank.
So, how do you know when to choose the real deal or go for the dupe? That’s where we come in to help. We start by asking a lot of questions at the beginning of each project. Budget, recipient, desired outcome—we gather all the essential details to make the very best recommendations. Whether it’s the genuine article or a well-curated dupe, we’ve got you covered.
You can check out some of our most-wanted retail brands and their handpicked alternatives in our Double Vision Lookbook. And remember, don’t be afraid to embrace the thrill of being duped!
