Are Bottega Veneta Drop Earrings, LV's Illusion High Boot, Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66, and other viral Instagram fashion items worth your money?

As Heidi Klum once said in Project Runway, "In fashion, one day you’re in and the next day, you’re out". In an era where Instagram reigns as the primary arbiter of style, viral items on the platform are the 'It' things of fashion. Digital influencers and trendsetters dictate the pulse of fashion and lifestyle to a large extent. From Coperni’s daring spray-on dress to Onitsuka Tiger’s revival of the Mexico 66 sneakers, the resurgence of Y2K aesthetics and other sartorial delights is at a high.

As these viral sensations transform from pixels to purchases, we wonder whether they truly merit the hype. Take a look as we evaluate the substance behind these all-time Instagram fashion favourites.

Diesel's B-Berny Belt Mini Skirt

Diesel's B-Berny Belt Mini Skirt, a controversial icon from Fall/Winter '22, made an audacious comeback in Spring/Summer '23 with a dazzling silver overhaul. Glenn Martens' daring creation—resembling a belt turned micro mini skirt—resurrects the bold spirit of the early 2000s. Despite criticism for its impracticality, this avant-garde design found its way into fashion editorials, cementing its status as a statement piece. So while the belt scores low on utility, if you are looking to make a statement, it is sure to do the job.
 
MSCHF's Big Red Boot

MSCHF's Big Red Boot ignited debates on trendiness versus gimmickry at the New York Fashion Week earlier this year with its Mario-inspired whimsy and a $350 price tag.

Continuing their caricatured footwear journey, the brand collaborated with Crocs for the MSCHF x Crocs Big Yellow Boot. Debuted at Paris Fashion Week, the yellow iteration maintains MSCHF's specialised production, blending a robust one-piece rubber frame with Crocs' elements—heel strap and perforations. This fusion remains a conversation-worthy fashion piece and has been termed surprisingly comfortable, if you are looking to get your hands on something eyeball-worthy.

Bottega Veneta Drop Earrings

These sculptural hoops from Bottega Veneta have been the year's coveted accessory, constantly gracing the front row of fashion weeks. Worn by celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Dua Lipa, and Bella Hadid, these versatile and attention-commanding earrings epitomise Bottega Veneta's classic charm. However, constant unavailability and a price tag of $1,350, make them an elusive statement piece.

Uniqlo's Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Uniqlo's Round Mini Shoulder Bag has become 2023's hottest must-have, turning heads with its unexpected popularity on TikTok. Priced at a mere $19.90, this water-repellent polyester purse boasts practicality, making it one of the most accessible "It" bags in recent history. Its understated design and absence of flashy logos align with the quiet-luxury trend, focusing on subtle elegance over ostentatious branding. What's more? It can be worn as a shoulder bag and crossbody style, making this trendy yet inexpensive number surely worth a try.

Miu Miu's Ballet Flats

Miu Miu's Ballet Flats have ascended to summer stardom, joining the brand's viral line-up of must-haves like the iconic Miu Miu skirt and Wander Bag. These delicate, satin-clad slippers, reminiscent of the brand's 2016 collection, have evolved with a simpler silhouette. This cult-favourite shoe is the season's go-to choice available in blue, red, pink, and white. Flats have never been more tempting, and if you are looking to tune into the balletcore trend, you know where to look.

Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66

The return of Onitsuka Tiger's Mexico 66 trainers has taken the fashion world by storm. Making waves since last September's Copenhagen Fashion Week, these versatile shoes effortlessly add an edge to bold and understated looks alike. Following a hiatus, the brand and its trainers have made a triumphant return, as evident by insane internet statistics. We say it's the perfect time to seize a pair while they're hot on the trend radar.

Louis Vuitton's Optical Illusion Boots

Louis Vuitton's Optical Illusion Boots made their eccentric debut at the Fall 2023 presentation in Paris—these below-the-knee boots are designed to mimic a leg clad in hand-painted white ribbed socks and black pumps. The peculiar design has left fashion enthusiasts both bewildered and intrigued. The "Illusion High Boots", available in two tones, are priced at $2,470 and even come in a calf-length version. A strange attempt at surrealism, this design should ideally be reserved for the runways.