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Woman & Home
Woman & Home
Lifestyle
Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse

M&S have brought back its viral flat sandals that look so similar to the £610 Hermès pair, I had to double take

M&S Flat Mules beside the Hermes Oran Sandal.

Purveyors of the most sought-after and best designer handbags, the Hermès Oran Sandals have been on many a fashionista's wish list for some time. While not quite as pricey as a Birkin, these sleek H-strap sandals are the height of summer luxury, but will set you back a staggering £610, so we had to find some affordable alternatives to quell our style lust.

First released in 1997, the Oran sandal was part of Hermès' spring collection and was named after the Algerian city of Oran. The collection was, at large, inspired by African dress, and the sandals in particular got their distinctive H-shaped strap from the Ndebele tribe, who would walk barefoot with just a painted detail on their feet to add decoration. This inspiration is clear to see in the minimalistic design of the Oran sandals, and it's this barely-there look that has created a timeless appeal.

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