The phrase refers to products available from a major retail corporation that closely resemble items sold by a higher-end home furnishings company, offered at a significantly reduced price point. For example, a lamp with a similar design and material, but a lower cost, at the mass-market retailer, mirroring a more expensive counterpart from the specialty store.
This phenomenon is significant due to its accessibility to a broader consumer base. It democratizes style and allows individuals with budget constraints to achieve a similar aesthetic in their homes without incurring the higher expenses associated with the premium brand. Historically, finding comparable designs at lower prices required extensive searching; the increased availability streamlines the process for consumers.
