one of the most popular topics on YouTube is how to look expensive. can you believe there are entire channels devoted to looking classy and elegant? with that in mind, i thought i would share a few style secrets to look expensive. honestly, you don’t need oodles of money for an outfit to look expensive. it’s simply common sense.
style secrets to look expensive
trousers | sweater | blazer | similar shoes | similar scarf | earrings | handbag
jumpsuit | similar belt | similar wedge sandals | similar wedge sandals 2
tip #1 to look expensive | monochromatic outfit
want an effortless way to create a classic, streamlined look? dress in the same color head to toe. a monochromatic outfit gives you a single line lending the impression of a taller, slimmer silhouette.
there are two ways to achieve a monochromatic look. the first is to mix and match tones within the same color palette to create a lean classic line. the other is a single color look; that’s a simple version of a monochromatic look.
tip#2 to look expensive | manicured nails
a trip to the nail salon works wonders for my mental health, and my nails look fantastic. whenever i’m feeling a mess, nail polish helps me feel polished. no pun intended. but you can achieve the same look at home. if your polish is chipped, take it off. nothing looks worse than chipped nails. what if you don’t like nail polish? just make certain your nails are clean and manicured. if you want to look expensive, make certain to use a neutral nail color. and leave the nail art for another time. my favorite nail polishes are Linkin Park After Dark for winter and Ballet Slippers for summer.
tip #3 to look expensive | don’t over-accessorize
sometimes less is more, and sometimes more is more when it comes to jewelry. there’s a time and place to stack your bracelets or necklaces. but if you want to achieve an expensive look, pare back your jewelry.
shift dress | open toe bootie | shoulder bag | necklace
denim | similar turtleneck | leopard jacket | suede booties | handbag
style tip #4 to look expensive | natural fibers
for a chic, elegant and expensive look, choose natural fibers. cashmere, wool, cotton, silk, linen all have a special place in your wardrobe. they instantly elevate your outfit. take a look at the inside tag to see how to care for those items. even though it’s suggested to dry clean a silk blouse, i typically wash mine on the delicate cycle in cold water then hang to dry.
denim | silk shirt | blazer (old similar here) | scarf | handbag | belt (old similar) | shoes (old similar)
long cardigan | similar sweater | skinny jeans | similar loafers
and don’t forget to watch my YouTube video for more style secrets to look expensive. happy sunday, ladies!
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About The Author
I LOVE that Vince Camuto open toe bootie – I’ve been looking for one to replace my old pair. But I just refuse to wear a 4″ heel anymore. And a 3″ one is very very hard to find…
i hear you. love these shoes but they are definitely not walking shoes due to the height. the only saving grace is they have block heels which make them surprisingly comfortable.
I hear you loud and clear — less is more with the accessories!!!
I use to think that having good taste, looking expensive, you needed to dress in neutrals without color. You look wonderful and wear lots of color.
Hello Beth,
I have been following your blog for a few years now, watching your videos and (sometimes) trying your recipes with ingredients I can find in my country (France). I am pleased to comment for the first time. I agree with your tips and would like to add another one which I use to “expensive looking” : gloves ! Wearing a good leather pair of gloves, matching either your coat, bag, shoes… or constrasting for a bit of colour… I think it is a good addition to a look. Don’t you think so ?
Stay safe, Cathie
thanks for sharing! gloves are certainly a chic item to elevate your outfit.
I think a scarf makes an outfit look elegant like in your picture with the red blazer. Thank you for all the suggestions! I will keep them in mind when putting an outfit together especially the one about the jewelry
On How to Look Expensive, that neck scarf was such a pretty surprise! Sharp how tied and just added such a nice touch!
Beth, your advice is spot on as usual and none of these tips need cost a fortune either. Good quality is worth the investment because when laundered, stored, and cared for properly, they can last many years. And affordable brands will benefit from the same due care. Making sure clothing fits well and ironed/steamed are paramount to looking great. A wrinkled jacket, shirt, etc will always look sloppy no matter how much you spent on it. Thank you Beth for continuing to inspire and encourage us!