Lidl is releasing a new Esmara Ladies' Black Longline Padded Gilet for £12.99 this Sunday, October 4, which looks similar to Next's £275 Sweaty Betty Black Nimbus Longline Gilet. The budget supermarket option could save shoppers over £260.
Budget-Friendly Autumn Layer
The gilet, made from 100% polyester, is wind-resistant and water-repellent thanks to the material's "bionic-finish eco technology." It features a high collar, drawstring hood, full-length two-way zip, side pockets, side slits with press studs, and a longer length back. Sizes include small, medium, and large.
Lidl's Special Buy deals are available in its Middle Aisle every Thursday and Sunday, and once stock is gone, "it's gone." The new gilet arrives as autumn weather sets in, offering a budget-friendly option for layering over hoodies and knitwear.
Comparing the Two Gilets
At first glance, the two gilets look similar. Both feature a sleek, all-black aesthetic, a longline silhouette that provides coverage over the hips and thighs, a hood, and side openings designed for ease of movement. For shoppers seeking the popular "athleisure" look for casual autumn strolls or the morning school run, Lidl's option provides a visually identical alternative at a fraction of the cost.
However, a closer look at the technical specifications reveals why there is a massive £262 price gap between the two items. Lidl's gilet is designed as a lightweight transitional layer, using 100% synthetic polyester padding and a water-repellent finish. It features standard press studs on the side slits, making it ideal for crisp, mild days.
In contrast, Sweaty Betty's Nimbus gilet is built as a high-performance winter shield. It boasts a substantial 119cm length and is packed with ultra-warm 300g down filling. Unlike the water-repellent Lidl version, the Nimbus is fully waterproof with taped seams. It also includes luxury details like fleece-lined pockets and internal backpack straps.
More Lidl Autumn Arrivals
Shoppers have a choice that largely comes down to function over fashion. If you need heavy-duty warmth and complete storm protection, the Sweaty Betty Nimbus could be seen as a worthwhile investment. But for a budget-friendly autumn layer, Lidl's budget buy is more affordable.
Budget-conscious shoppers can also get 'luxury' looking kitchenware without a premium price tag. Lidl is set to release a new casserole dish for autumn that shares similar features to high-end brands like Le Creuset. On Thursday, October 1, shoppers can treat themselves to a new 2L Cast Iron Casserole Dish for £34.99, and it looks similar to a popular Le Creuset dish.
Another Lidl Esmara item, the Ladies' Navy Lightweight Padded Jacket, is coming to stores this weekend too, just in time for the autumn weather. It is ultra-lightweight yet has a padded design, which Lidl says can help to keep you warm on chilly mornings and crisp evening walks.
