I have a few friends who are thrifty with their shekels when it comes to shopping, but always look like a million bucks. I’ve noticed that these friends follow similar shopping approaches: seek out the tried-and-true brands that have timeless cache to them (think Ray Ban — if Audrey wore them, and they’re still around $100 a pair, they’ve got to be good), or invest in inexpensive pieces that look high-fashion, whether because of a dramatic cut or a flashy detail — like pearl embellishment, or oversized buttons, or a severe pleat in an asymmetric top. That, and sticking to non-trendy colors — think black, white, red, blue, denim. Check out the snap above for inspo: this babe is wearing red Supergas, a denim jacket, a simple white skirt with interesting detailing (similar here for only $56), and a non-flashy canvas-and-leather tote — and yet she looks so impossibly chic!
Below, a couple of finds that are around $100, but will give you that high end look.
+I’ve written about these extensively, but these shades are SO epic, and at only $69, look a helluva lot like a designer shade for a fraction of the cost. Something about the dimensions screams designer to me.
+White eyelet peplum top ($42). The big bows create drama; the white eyelet reads timeless.
+OK, over $100 — but at $145, I’m calling this oversized-bow-mule in black satin a victory.
+Oversized pearl hoops for $45?! (Also available in non-pearlescent white for more of a mod look.)
+There is something reminiscent of Grace Kelly in this swimsuit, in either never-go-out-of-style black or of-the-moment ice blue.
+This enormous buttons and puffed sleeves on this statement top ($110) read high-end designer.
+A pair of Levis’ 501s will never be un-chic.
+A classic white polo shirt ($85) will legitimately never go out of style, and hearkens to that country club lifestyle. I like this paired with my favorite jeans.
+Supergas are timeless and classy, and go with everything from sundresses to jeans.
+When it comes to bags, canvas has a preppy, summery, beachy feel, but is rarely too expensive — and a monogram, particularly one that looks Goyard-esque, like the one shown below, will elevate even the simplest style.
+Jean jacket — the perfect rebel-without-a-cause accessory for anything from a floral sundress to a pair of jeans. I like ones that run a little snug.
+On the trendier side of things, a faux fur slide for $100?! YES. (And almost sold out…!)
+This poplin striped top ($69) is nailing the ambient vibe.
+Meanwhile, this Cult Gaia ark bag continues to rule amongst the street style set, and at $128, you can get that super-RN look without breaking the bank.
+I wrote recently about the statement sweatshirt trend — this $18 steal, with its fringe and balloon sleeves, looks like something purchased from a super-hip boutique in Soho.
+This super-soft alpaca scarf ($75) comes in the prettiest, most ladylike colors and looks like a timeless investment piece.
+Meanwhile, the poms on this sweater suggest a higher price point than it actually bears ($118). More sizes here.
P.S. More trends.
P.P.S. How to get a specific (Celine) high-end look for less.
P.P.P.S. What I’m actually wearing most days.