The Debate: Whether Copycat Beauty is the Future?
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1 min
I understand the appeal of taking inspiration from products... but are MCoBeauty's dupes crossing the line?
MCoBeauty is an Australian beauty brand known for creating affordable “dupes” of luxury beauty products. But, how close is TOO close when it comes to copying the same packaging and marketing?
Charlotte Tilbury
MCoBeauty has sparked serious talk for products like Flawless Glow, which many say are near-copies of Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter.
While no legal lawsuit exists, the brand fuels the debate over dupe culture: is affordable alternatives clever or just lazy imitation? For many, it’s proof that accessibility is clashing with originality in beauty.
Sol De Janeiro
Another of MCoBeauty’s victims being Sol De Janeiro’s cult-classic body mists, copying their fragrance notes of sweet Vanilla, Coconut and recreating their matching body wash and body lotion sets.
Their formula’s resemblance and similarity in packaging is blatantly obvious. In short, the MCoBeauty vs. Sol de Janeiro conversation is another example of dupe culture in action, where affordability and accessibility collide with originality and brand identity.
Rhode Launch Controversy
MCoBeauty’s latest move is dropping their own version of the milky toner, which is a strikingly similar concept to Rhode’s original Glazing Milk. The craziest part? They launched it on the exact same day Rhode hit Mecca in Australia and New Zealand.
On one hand, it’s a clever strategy to ride the wave of milky toner virality. On the other, some say it’s a bit shady, stealing the spotlight from Rhode’s debut.
The debate isn’t about legality, rather, it’s about brand integrity. MCoBeauty’s goal is simple: make popular products accessible to those unwilling to pay luxury prices.
Personally, taking inspiration isn’t inherently wrong but beyond packaging and marketing, their formulas will need to stand on quality alone. Ultimately, it’s up to us as consumers to decide whether to support the brand.
I've spilled my thoughts in this video, but now I want to hear yours too! What's your take?
Til next time, Beauties x
