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Ever glanced at someone across the room and instantly thought they were wearing designer? Then been shocked to discover their outfit was actually high street?
That perfectly polished look isn’t about the price tag—it’s about clever styling tricks that ANYONE can master.
The fashion industry might want us to believe we need to spend a fortune on old money must-haves to look chic, but the reality is far more democratic.
With a few strategic tweaks, your everyday wardrobe can exude that luxury feel without the eye-watering expense.
So here’s 14 ways to make your outfits look more expensive without emptying your bank account!
1. Master the art of monochrome
Nothing says refined quite like a tonal outfit. Wearing similar shades from head to toe creates a cohesive look that appears intentional and thoughtfully curated. Try cream with beige, navy with cobalt, or different depths of grey for an instantly expensive-looking ensemble.
2. Prioritise perfect fit
Ill-fitting clothes scream “bargain bin” regardless of their actual price. Invest in a good tailor to nip and tuck your high street finds—shortened sleeves, adjusted waistbands and perfectly hemmed trousers make all the difference. Even the most affordable trousers can look premium when they fit like they were made for you. Speaking of trousers, here’s our high-street favourites…
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3. Choose natural fabrics when possible
Fabrics like cotton, linen, wool and silk naturally hang better on the body and age more gracefully than their synthetic counterparts. They might cost slightly more initially, but the elevated look they provide is worth every penny.
4. Iron or steam everything
Nothing cheapens an outfit faster than wrinkles. Take the extra five minutes to steam or iron your clothes before wearing them—this simple step dramatically transforms even budget pieces.
5. Swap visible zips for hidden ones
When shopping, look for garments with concealed zips and fastenings. Visible plastic zips often cheapen the look of otherwise lovely pieces. This small detail signals quality craftsmanship.
6. Upgrade your buttons
Replace plastic buttons on coats and blazers with pearl, metal, or horn versions. This small swap (costing just a few pounds) can transform a basic jacket into something that looks bespoke.
7. Invest in quality accessories
A premium-looking handbag, pair of shoes, or piece of jewellery can elevate even the simplest outfit. Rather than buying ten mediocre bags, save for one excellent one that will work with everything. Accessories are often the first things people notice.
8. Mind your necklines
Certain necklines naturally look more sophisticated than others. Boat necks, V-necks and square necklines tend to present as more expensive than round crew necks or fussy, complicated cuts.
9. Embrace strategic simplicity
Luxury often whispers rather than shouts. Avoid overly trendy pieces with excessive details, logos or embellishments. Clean lines and simple silhouettes typically look more expensive than busy designs.
10. Consider your colour palette
Some colours inherently look pricier than others. Camel, cream, navy, grey, and black create a sophisticated foundation. Jewel tones like emerald and burgundy also exude luxury, especially in autumn and winter.
11. Look after your clothes properly
Bobbled jumpers, scuffed shoes and faded blacks instantly downgrade your look. Invest in a fabric shaver, shoe polish and proper washing techniques to keep your clothes looking their best for longer.
12. Layer thoughtfully
Considered layering signals style confidence. A tailored waistcoat over a simple tee, or a perfectly proportioned cardigan under a coat adds dimension and suggests a well-curated wardrobe.
13. Pay attention to seams and hems
Inspect potential purchases carefully. Straight seams and neat, sturdy hems are hallmarks of quality construction. Even inexpensive items can look premium if they’re well-made.
14. Perfect your pressing
Learn how to properly press collars, cuffs and pleats. These details catch the light beautifully and give clothes that crisp, fresh-from-the-boutique feel that signals quality.
Final Thoughts
The cool thing about these tricks is that they’ll create a virtuous cycle. When you look more polished, you tend to hold yourself differently, with the kind of confidence that makes everything you wear look that bit more luxurious.
After all, true style has always been about how you wear something, not what you paid for it!
