Is there any bigger compliment than when a stranger stops and asks that question “ Where did you get that?”. This normally happens when I am wearing my most luxurious looking items, whether they are actually pricey or not. I normally wear clothing that is less than $150 per piece. I always say that if you add a designer accessory or two to any outfit, it can make this average Topshop cami that was only $30 and this Free People chunky knit cardigan that was $148 look like it could have been over $500. I was so excited when I saw Nordstrom started selling Gucci handbags, that I actually went and bought two. They are the perfect statement bag to make any basic outfit look like a million bucks!
Since we all can’t afford cashmere and silk, here are some simple tips on how to make cheap clothes look expensive so you can save up and buy the staple designer handbag you have been lusting over.
1. Buy a steamer.
I get yelled at for this all the time. I tend to leave the house forgetting to steam my clothing but wrinkles can make anything look cheap. Ironing can definitely be a hassle, but a good steamer can take out just about any wrinkle within a couple of minutes. If streaming isn’t for you, they sell wrinkle release spray.
2. Don’t wear clothing with stains.
If you see a stain and you can’t get it out, immediately take it to the dry cleaners to see if they can help. If you notice the stains, other people will too.
3. Don’t wash your clothing after every wear.
Obviously we want to keep everything as clean as possible, but washing your clothes wears down the fabrics and fades the color. If you end up with a stain or a mark you can always spot clean with a sponge.
4. Get it tailored.
A $30 Topshop cami can end up looking like a $300 Vince cami after a few quick stitches. If it doesn’t fit perfect right off the rack, you should take it to the tailor before you even get it home. We all know the second it is in your house you won’t take it to get tailored. Trust me, I have done this on $10 shirts and it’s worth every penny.
5. Keep it basic.
Buying basics and simple stuff is always the way to go. It is harder to find great embellishment pieces that look expensive on a budget.
6. Invest in expensive statement pieces and trend items, and save on basic and classic pieces.
Don’t spend $300 on a simple black cami from Vince when you can get that for $30 from Topshop. Save your money for the attention grabbing trend items that will become the focus of your outfit anyway.
* This post is sponsored by Nordstrom
Gucci Mini Dionysus GG Supreme Shoulder Bag
Christian Louboutin ‘So Kate’ Pointy Toe Pumps
Free People Saturday Morning Cardigan
Topshop Peplum Camisole
The Giving Keys Necklace
BaubleBar Ring
Kendra Scott Nicholas Cuff
Articles of Society Sarah Skinny Jeans
Comments
love this! mixing high and low is what it’s all about!!
xo Emily
http://www.thehipsuburban.com
Everyone needs to read this. I seriously cringe when I see wrinkly clothes on Insta!!! a
These are such great tips! I have been eyeing that free people cardigan all week and can’t decide if I want the cream or the blue. It looks SO cozy. Thanks for putting these all together.
xo. Shelby
http://www.prettyinthepines.com
I’m a huge proponent of mixing high-low pieces! I actually own this cami tank in like 8 colors because it’s such a good basic!
xo, Sara
These are such good tips! I love mixing high and low, but definetly need to invest in a steamer for sure. I love that cardigan!
~~Megan~~
http://www.poshprime.com
i am allll about this!
Thank you for these tips, I totally agree that you must invest in a great steamer, I live by mine.
Awesome tips Sarah! Loving that chunky cardi….I’m all about tip #5, that’s how I keep from overspending and can save for a handbag or two, or three 🙂
Jessica ♥ | THEWAYTOMYHART.com
Instagram | @THEWAYTOMYHART
These are amazing tips! I have a steamer and LOVE it, I loathe ironing, so steaming is the way for me. Tip #5 is my favorite, splurge a little save a little some balance!
Great post and tips Sarah! I love mixing high end and low end pieces together!
Such good tips! You look perfect!
so completely true!! thanks for sharing!
Great tips! I’ve never really thought to bring my pieces to a tailor, but I might start doing that to keep my clothing in prime condition!
These are really great tips. Tailoring really is important, makes all the difference.
Dylan
http://www.lifebydylan.com
Love these tips! That sweater is too cute
Having a steamer is SO important! Couldn’t live without mine!
Oh I love this!!!! Great tips for sure gal.
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
These are really great tips! I am at a point in my life (and probably always will be) where high end designer items just won’t be in my closet. I do find that not washing my clothes after each wear definitely keeps them nicer looking.
xo,
Steph
@trendyinindy || trendyinindy.com
Love these tips and I’m all about mixing high and low end pieces!
http://asequinloveaffair.com
Love the way you mix high and low! So true that steaming and alterations can make a whole world of difference.
Such great tips! I literally could not survive without a steamer. I am so mad at myself for not buying one sooner!
I cannot live without my steamer!
Xo, Nina
Law of Fashion Blog
I totally agree with all of this- especially the tailoring tip! I get so so much tailored!
These are such great tips!