Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t build a wardrobe filled with classy and sophisticated pieces! In fact, there are so many ways to style affordable looks that feel fancy–not fake.
Here are nine of our favorite expensive-looking outfits that won’t break the bank.
1. Mix a sophisticated LBD with a pair of neutral suede pumps to appear poised and polished.
The little black dress is a go-to, and for good reason. It’s flattering, versatile and always feels a little like the hustle of New York. One of our favorite ways to accessorize a black dress is with a pair of neutral suede pumps. While the textured material is visually interesting, a neutral color like taupe or oatmeal balances it out. Curl your hair a bit and add geometric earrings to keep the look elegant, but not stuffy.
2. Pair a cozy cardigan with leggings and over the knee boots for a comfy, casual look.
Comfort is really the ultimate luxury, and cardigans are the perfect layering piece to create an outfit that reads fashionable, not frumpy. The key to finding a cardigan that looks expensive is to search for materials that feel soft to the touch–instead of scratchy–and don’t have any unintentional pulls. To keep this look feeling pulled together, allow the cardigan to be the focal point by keeping the rest of the outfit tailored.
3. The classic wrap dress feels sophisticated and fresh with strappy black sandals.
The wrap dress is iconic, and honestly amazing. The magic is that it always looks like it was perfectly tailored to you. Pair a flowing floral version with a pair of black strappy sandals for a modern take that looks just as appropriate for work as it does for weekend brunch. A crossbody bag and statement earrings pull everything together.
4. Envelop yourself in the cozy comfort of a luxurious blanket scarf.
A blanket scarf is like a great big hug, and can really transform any fall or winter outfit. Opt for a classic plaid in rich colors like marigold, rust or forest green for a fresh feel. A chunky sweater, slim black pants and crisp white sneakers look preppy, but not cliché.
5. Feel light as air in a printed maxi dress and platform sandals.
Summer looks don’t need to feel cheap or cheesy–just be sure to pick tropical patterns in flowy fabrics rather than crisp button-downs to avoid the “tourist” look. The options from Buddy Love are perfect for barefoot beach days and transition effortlessly to nighttime with a pair of platform sandals.
6. Elevate a classic cocktail dress with lucite earrings and nude heels.
A cocktail dress is a true wardrobe staple. You can wear it so many ways, and just a few simple accessory swaps can make it feel brand new. For a fancy dinner party or after work event, there’s no need to borrow grandma’s heirloom jewelry. Lucite earrings are really trendy right now and thankfully don’t cost a fortune! Nude heels keep the focus on your smiling face.
7. Add a bit of preppy flavor with monogrammed accessories or clothing.
Is there anything as Ivy League as monogrammed clothing?! Whether you wear your pride on your sleeve (quite literally) or stick to a small detail like a charm bracelet or beanie, monogramming can make any outfit seem expensive. Stay away from a full head-to-toe look, though, or else you risk looking a little too collegiate.
8. Mix a midi dress with wedges and an envelope clutch for a super easy date night look.
A midi dress is like magic: It’s modest and sophisticated, but still youthful and fun. Whether you opt for a chic solid like slate gray or a flirty floral in a fresh color palette, this flattering style is a great date night option. Complete the look with a pair of wedge sandals and an envelope clutch.
9. Ace the interview–or rock the work week–in a slouchy blazer, cigarette pants and power pumps.
When shopping for interview outfits, odds are you’re looking for something that looks classy and means business. A slouchy blazer is professional, but still super trendy. You can’t go wrong by mixing it with cigarette pants and your most comfortable pair of pumps.
Your Confidence Is Priceless
You don’t have to be rich to dress classy. Even if you were wearing the most expensive ball gown ever created, if you don’t feel like yourself in it, you won’t feel classy in it. The key is to dress to impress yourself before you dress to impress anyone else! That being said, we hope these nine expensive-looking outfits help inspire you to create even more chic looks of your own.
