How To Look Expensive
Who doesn’t want to look more elegant, classy, sophisticated, and expensive?! Don’t get me wrong, I love a trendy, fashion-forward, edgy look too. But when I want to feel my best, most stylish, and classic, I tend to lean toward a simple but elevated outfit that looks expensive. But, I know that getting that expensive look at an affordable price, while still purchasing high-quality pieces, can be difficult. Don’t worry, I’ve found some incredibly high-quality wardrobe basics to show you how to look expensive on a budget! All of these pieces are integral to a capsule wardrobe and…wait for it…under $100!
#1 | Cashmere Sweater
A cashmere crewneck sweater is a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe. Cashmere is a very high-quality and luxurious fabric. It’s much warmer than wool (3x actually), super soft, and so versatile. One of the key pieces to looking more expensive is finding luxe textured fabrics like this 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere. You can actually see that the sweater looks expensive and luxurious. But it’s only $50!
I paired the ivory sweater with some camel pleated trousers and heels for a very elevated outfit. It’s a very ladylike, sophisticated look that’s perfect for the office. I added some pumps and a neutral handbag to keep it understated and classy. But you could easily wear this sweater with jeans or a skirt. I’m sharing one more way to style it next…
Black Cashmere Sweater
I wanted to show you another option with the same cashmere sweater but in black. I styled it with a ribbed cashmere midi skirt (that’s only $100!). I love having both of these cashmere pieces to wear together or as separates. You can wear the sweater with jeans, a different skirt, trousers, or tie it around your shoulders to throw on over a tee when you get chilly. You can wear the skirt with just about any top or blouse you have in your closet. I completed the look with a black belt, slingback pumps, glam sunnies, minimal jewelry, and a classic handbag.
#2 | Cashmere Turtleneck
Next up is another super neutral, versatile essential closet must-have…a turtleneck! Turtlenecks can be tricky because you don’t want them to highlight your chin too much. I like this turtleneck because it has a little room in the neck and can even be folded in to avoid accentuating right under that jawline.
This turtleneck is a fail-safe, wonderful piece to have in your wardrobe that looks so luxe and expensive. It’s classic, timeless, and you’ll have it for years to come. It’s made of the same yummy cashmere fabric and is only $90. I’m wearing the color Charcoal but it comes in a bunch of great options. Note on sizing: If you want a looser fit, go with your regular size. If you want a more slim, tailored fit then size down. I styled it with a pair of black pleated trousers, a classic belt, and some suede booties. You could easily make this turtleneck more casual with a pair of jeans too.
#3 | Silky Blouse
Next up is this gorgeous silky button-down blouse in a beautiful ivory. If the goal is to look more expensive, dressing in neutral colors will always help you nail it. I styled the top with a pair of jeans to show you a more casual but elevated look. If you’re trying to look expensive and want to wear jeans, opt for dark-wash flare or bootcut jeans for a more refined look. A trendier or light-wash pair of jeans won’t have the same effect. Classic, minimal styles are key to looking expensive!
More Silky Blouses
I wanted to show you a few other silky blouse options because Quince blouses are washable and SO good! This tie-neck silky blouse comes in a few colors and I grabbed it in the burgundy Wine Tasting color and in Forest Green. Both colors are so beautiful and perfect for fall. You can wear them to dinners, the office, or even into the holidays. The fabric is so lightweight and thin that you can easily tuck it in to jeans, trousers, or skirts without adding bulk around the tummy.
#4 | Tailored Blazer
If you don’t already have a tailored blazer in your closet, now’s the time! There are so many options at every price point now and you really can get a high-quality tailored blazer for a super affordable price. This Quince blazer is under $90 and it’s SO good. It’s beautiful, tailored, cinches in at the waist, high-quality, and the gold buttons look very luxe. When you need a piece that will really elevate an outfit, this blazer will be your go-to. It also has zip-in/out insert options similar to the Veronica Beard blazer if that’s something you’re interested in.
I styled the blazer with jeans and a tee because I really wanted you to see how impactful a tailored blazer can be! You can be wearing the most casual outfit and throwing on a blazer will instantly elevate it and make you look more expensive.
#5 | Sleek Handbag
The last piece for accomplishing that expensive, sophisticated look is a sleek leather handbag. It can be faux leather if you prefer…faux leather has really come a long way and there are great options out there now. This handbag is a really pretty braided leather fold-over clutch. It looks very expensive but it’s just under $100. It’s amazing for travel or for every day just running errands. It’s also convertible so you can carry it as a clutch, a crossbody, or on your shoulder. I also have this bag in tan and took it on a trip to Vietnam and China, and it held up so well and was really perfect for all the travel and excursions.
So to recap…here’s how to look expensive without breaking the bank: Find pieces with luxe textured fabrics, in neutral versatile colors, that have minimal details. Classic and simple is better when the goal is to look more expensive!
Which of these basics do you still need to complete your wardrobe? Let us know in the comments below.
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