Someone recently suggested my taste has grown a tad high-end. Au contrair, mon frere! I think the more likely explanation is I've learned to pay more attention to the details that differentiate a higher-end item from its lower-priced counterpart. I'm always amazed when I see silly-high prices on items that could easily be obtained at a lower price point, without sacrificing the stylish look.

For example, Saturday, I was checking out the offerings on OKL, and noted a pair of nice, large brass lamps. Then, I noted the price: $1,199. Whaaaa? Why would someone pay that kind of money for a set of lamps, the look of which could be easily duplicated?

I know, because I recently bought a very similar set on Ebay for $140, that's what (I'm no math whiz), nearly one tenth as much?

Now, do my lamps have a pedigree?

No.

Do I care?

No.

Do I get the same look, minus some of the cost-inducing details (lucite base and finials)?

Yes.

Overall, I consider it a win-win.

There's a fine line to this mentality, though, and apparently, it's the impetus behind a lot of the DIY we see all over Pinterest, etc. Someone sees a look they like in a glossy or professional designer's site, and decides they can save a boat-load of cash trying to reproduce it.

Is it a good idea?

Maybe.

If you're talented, and patient, and can make it look deceivingly close to the real deal.

There's been some backlash recently to all the DIYers, and perhaps it's nothing more than snobbery on the part of the design world. But there is something to be said for...getting it right. Whether that means being patient until you can snag an original, or honing your deception-inducing skills, I'm not sure.

Where do you fall on the Look for Less spectrum?