The Real Chic Life

High summer is in full swing and I’m trying to lean into the best parts of the season right now, but I keep catching glimpses of pre-fall online and in stores, and I can’t help thinking about the season ahead. Fall textures and colors are just so luxe. I’m not going all the way down the fall rabbit hole just yet, but when I do I’ll be focusing on accessories and finishing touches that make my wardrobe feel elevated. The truth is no matter the season, there’s something undeniably captivating about a woman who looks polished, pulled together, and quietly luxe. Who doesn’t want to capture the confidence that comes from looking refined and intentional? Thankfully no one needs a black card or a stylist to do it. With a few strategic choices and a refined eye, you can create a wardrobe that radiates quiet sophistication on any budget.

So here’s how to look expensive without spending a fortune.

1. Prioritize a Neutral Color Palette

Neutral colors look expensive. If bright colors make you happy then embrace them (I’m all for dopamine dressing), but try to limit your wardrobe to just a few bold colors each season. Anchor your wardrobe with basics in timeless neutrals. Think camel, ivory, navy, black, taupe, and soft gray. These tones always look chic and pair well together effortlessly. If you want to incorporate some color without going for bold shades, try muted tones like sage green, burgundy, or powder blue — they feel elevated and soft.

2. Prioritize Fit Over Brand

A perfectly tailored $40 blazer will always look better than a $400 one that fits poorly. Your clothes should skim, not cling. They should flatter your frame, highlight your best features, and never overwhelm you. If something feels “just okay,” it’s probably a no. Looking expensive is about editing well. Finding a good tailor can be very helpful—hemming trousers, taking in a waist, or adjusting a sleeve can instantly upgrade your look.

3. Choose Structured Pieces

The more structure your outfit has, the more expensive it looks. Think:

• Crisp button-down shirts
• Blazers and trench coats
• Clean-lined trousers or midi skirts
• Sharp handbags with clean seams

Avoid overly slouchy or clingy fabrics unless they’re intentionally draped — like a silk slip dress or flowy linen.

4. Add Subtle, Quality Accessories

Expensive looking outfits are made with the right finishing touches. When stylists put together looks for celebrities (even casual, street-style looks) they choose everything down to the jewelry and sunglasses because they know that the details can make or break a look. You’ll always look expensive if you go for timeless accessories that look like something you could have inherited from a stylish grandmother or found in a Parisian vintage shop. Think:

• Pearl studs or strands — they always look chic and high-end even when they’re budget friendly
• Diamond (or diamond-look) jewelry — classic, clean sparkle elevates everything from sweatshirts to ballgowns
• Gold-tone jewelry—think dainty layered necklaces or sculptural hoops
• Watches with leather straps — especially in tan, black, or croc-embossed textures
• Vintage-inspired rings and bracelets with minimal settings or antique vibes

These pieces tell a story. They feel personal, intentional, and elevated. If you can go for the real deal that’s great, but you don’t have to spend a lot on these pieces. Many people prefer costume jewelry for everyday wear anyways so that they can participate in different activities without worrying about loss or theft. Options are endless- ranging from pieces under $20 online to $150 or less at classic retailers like J.Crew and more.

Don’t forget other accessories like:

• Structured handbags in classic shapes (top-handle, bucket, or mini crossbody)

• Classic sunglasses (black or tortoise shell is timeless)

• Leather or leather-look belts to cinch and elevate simple pieces

5. Maintain What You Wear

Nothing kills an “expensive” look faster than scuffed shoes, wrinkled fabric, or pilled sweaters. The secret isn’t just what you wear — it’s how pristine it looks. Make it a habit to:

• Steam or iron your clothes
• Use a lint roller (especially on black pieces)
• Keep white items actually white
• Clean or wipe down shoes and sandals regularly
• Cut stray threads or fuzz with fabric scissors

6. Keep Beauty Polished and Effortless

Clean, glowy, and intentional beauty reads expensive. A few go-to looks:

• Light foundation or tinted moisturizer + highlighter
• Brushed brows + soft eyeliner
• A glossy nude or red lip
• Neatly manicured nails in sheer pink, nude, or deep wine

Hair is often one of the most frustrating or expensive parts of a woman’s beauty routine but the truth is it’s a key part of looking expensive. No matter what texture or color you have, or what style you prefer, simply maintaining your hair (at home or at a salon) regularly is the important part. Your hairstyle doesn’t need to be elaborate but it does need to look intentional.

7. Invest Where It Matters Most

If you do want to splurge, spend on the items you’ll wear constantly and that anchor your look:

• A classic trench or wool coat- nice outerwear is the easiest way to look expensive in the colder months
• A leather handbag
• Black ankle boots or pointed flats
• A well-made blazer
• A signature fragrance

These pieces elevate everything else — even if you’re wearing a $5 tee underneath.

I believe that looking expensive is less about money, and more about intention. It’s about paying attention to the details and valuing quality. Do you have any tips for looking expensive (even on a budget)? Let us know in the comments.

Xo,

Courtney