Lidl is launching a new Esmara Ladies' Black Longline Padded Gilet in UK stores on Sunday, October 4, priced at £12.99. The budget supermarket's offering bears a striking resemblance to Next's £275 Sweaty Betty Black Nimbus Longline Gilet, potentially leaving shoppers £260 better off.
Design and features of Lidl's gilet
Crafted from 100% polyester, the gilet features wind-resistant and water-repellent properties thanks to the fabric's "bionic-finish eco technology". It includes a high collar, drawstring hood, full-length two-way zip, side pockets, side slits with press studs, and an elongated back hem. It is available in small, medium and large.
At first glance, the two gilets are strikingly alike, both showcasing a sleek all-black finish, a longline cut offering coverage over the hips and thighs, a hood, and side openings for unrestricted movement. For those purely after the trendy "athleisure" aesthetic for relaxed autumn walks or the morning school run, Lidl's offering delivers a virtually indistinguishable look at just a sliver of the price.
Comparing the £262 price gap
Yet a closer examination of the technical details explains the substantial £262 gap between these two garments. Lidl's £13 gilet serves as a light transitional piece, constructed with 100% synthetic polyester padding and finished with a water-repellent coating. Featuring conventional press studs along the side splits, it's perfectly suited for fresh, temperate autumn days.
By comparison, Sweaty Betty's £275 Nimbus gilet serves as a robust winter defence. Measuring an impressive 119cm in length, it's filled with exceptionally warm 300g down insulation. While Lidl's version offers water-repellent properties, the Nimbus delivers full waterproof protection with taped seams. Additional premium touches include fleece-lined pockets and integrated backpack straps.
Other new Lidl arrivals
Budget-savvy consumers can also acquire 'luxury' style kitchenware without paying premium prices. Lidl is preparing to launch a new casserole dish this autumn that bears striking similarities to upmarket brands such as Le Creuset. From Thursday, October 1, customers can purchase a 2L Cast Iron Casserole Dish for £34.99, a model that closely resembles a sought-after Le Creuset product.
Additionally, another item from Lidl's Esmara range, the Ladies' Navy Lightweight Padded Jacket, arrives in stores this weekend, perfectly timed for the autumnal conditions. Despite being ultra-lightweight, it features padded construction, which Lidl claims will help keep wearers cosy during cold mornings and brisk evening strolls.
