Here are 10 ways to make cheap clothes look expensive. I’m a huge believer that you can make your outfit look expensive on a budget and utilize what you already have available in your wardrobe. Let’s face it, the majority of us don’t have lavish wardrobes like the Kardashians. However, through my fashion industry experience from low tier to luxury markets, I have found 10 easy, affordable ways to make your outfit look more expensive without having to splurge.
I’ve broken down the below into two categories – Styling tips to make your outfit look expensive and easy items you can work into your outfit on a budget. Here we go!
Styling Tips to Make Your Outfit Look Expensive
1. Monochrome Dressing
Monochrome dressing from head to toe is a very easy styling technique that will immediately make your outfit look expensive on a budget. Also, it’s one of my favorite tricks for when you’re on a time crunch and have to run out the door. To achieve this technique, here are three color palettes that work best – black, white, and neutrals such as beige or grey. You’ll see that I refer to these color tones a lot throughout this post, as they’re timeless colors and resonate with elevated fashion.
2. Minimalist Styling
Want to make your outfit look expensive? Try less is more. Minimalist styling focuses on one major principle – keeping it simple. This styling technique streamlines shapes and silhouettes with a small amount of clothing. It’s a smart styling trick that’s sophisticated and timeless. My favorite minimalist look is a simple tee and jeans paired with tasteful accessories.
3. Tailored Pieces
As a petite woman, I’m always at my tailor altering clothes (It has become my second home!). Tailored clothing is a great way to refresh your current wardrobe. Think about what you already have in your closet that needs a slight alteration. Above all, your outfit looks more polished and put together when it’s tailored.
4. Scrunch Up Your Sleeves
An uncommon styling hack, scrunching up your sleeves really elevates your look! Additionally, this styling hack is my secret weapon when I just need to add a little touch of style to an outfit. It makes your outfit look more expensive, high-end, and effortless. I try this technique with blazers, long sleeve sweaters, and long coats.
Clothing That Looks Expensive
5. Structured Blazer
In this section, I’m going to talk about structured blazers. Firstly, a structured blazer is always a great item to have in your wardrobe, whether it’s a boyfriend or fitted blazer. In other words, a blazer generally has an elevated and expensive appeal based on it’s timeless value. You can throw it over a dress, pair it with a suit, or even with a white tee and jeans. It gives an expensive value to any look. I have a favorite one from Zara that I constantly wear.
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6. Long Coat
Forget the short puffer and opt for a long coat that makes an elegant statement. You want something that’s below the knee and just almost sweeps the floor. This works best in camel, black, and white. Pair it with a structured bag and some dark shades and your look is now elevated and luxe.
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7. Neutral Pieces
Neutral colors are timeless and can easily pair back with any outfit. Think about a look with white wide leg trousers and a fitted top, or a head to toe neutral look with a structured bag? Neutral pieces are great investments that are easily accessible on a budget. From sweaters, to trousers, to silk skirts, you can’t go wrong with a classic neutral to make your outfit expensive.
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Accessories That Look Expensive
8. Gold Jewelry
This has to be my favorite go-to accessory that easily makes your outfit look expensive on a budget. Now I’m not saying go out and purchase real gold necklaces. There are some amazing alternatives out there that are just as good! In other words, gold is associated with value, so adding a few statements as a bracelet, necklace, or earrings will quickly give you a luxe vibe. Try layering gold necklaces over a monochrome black look or even a white tee shirt with jeans.
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9. Structured Handbag
I feel like I have so many structured handbags because they’re timeless and chic. Whether big or small, you can easily work with this accessory to elevate a look! Now I’m not saying go out and buy the new Celine bag. I provided some great options below that are affordable. I love this style in all white or beige, but you can easily play with colors here as well. No need to always go neutral!
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10. Pointy Toe Shoes
My stylist friend said her number one styling trick is to wear pointy toe shoes. Pointy toe shoes not only elongate your body, but also bring more sophistication to your outfit. Compare a look with a round toe vs. pointed and you’d notice a huge difference.
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