These Under-$100 Accessories Will Make Your Outfit Feel Expensive
If you're looking for a way to look—excuse my French—"bougie on a budget," then you've come to the right place. Who What Wear was a trailblazer in that category way before it was cool to admit that you got it from Zara. There will be no label shaming here because we're here to make fashion accessible to all, no matter what your budget is.
One of the best ways to take an affordable outfit to the next level is through accessories. Fun fact: No matter what many of the designer labels might tell you, they don't need to break the bank. You have no idea how much fun I have sourcing vintage designer finds and buying into that It item, but to be a fashion person, the splurge is not a requirement.
Most people don't know this, but it actually really matters what kind of accessory you buy on a budget. When you choose the right item, you're guaranteed to be successful. The below accessories are approved by, well, me, but I know what I'm doing here, so you're in good hands. Just adding one of the below items to your wardrobe will make all the difference, so let's see what you find.
1. Cool-Girl Sunnies
This is the easiest trick in the book to pulling together an outfit that feels expensive. I rarely leave the house these days without a pair of sunglasses, and when I do, I just don't feel like myself. Add to your own personal collection of sunnies with the cute picks below.
Shop:
2. Effortless Shouler Bags
Shoulder bags basically own me right now. I love a good crossbody, but if you want your look to feel a step above the rest, swap it out for a shoulder bag now and then. These ones feel very right now.
Shop:
3. Lazy Loafers
I'm calling them lazy loafers because they're just that. Low effort is required to slide this footwear on, yet it makes a maximum impact. There are so many under-$100 styles, but my picks are the best.
Shop:
4. Sporty Chic
Baseball-hat lovers, don't fret. This is still such an easy way to step up any outfit that hangs in your closet. For me, a good logo that feels elevated gives it that extra-special touch that I'm looking for.
Shop:
5. Barely-There Jewelry
I love a chunky gold necklace or statement earring, but when buying more affordable pieces, I definitely take the minimal route. It feels more expensive and less like costume jewelry, so my mission is complete.
Shop:
6. Modern Mules
Modern-day mules are bold, unique, and different. They're one of the best ways to finish out a look because of how easily they translate to "right now" fashion. I can't stop ordering them.
Shop:
7. Just Belt It
My belt collection is my saving grace. Anytime I look in the mirror and my outfit feels mediocre, I throw on a belt, and the whole look comes together. That's what I love about accessories—you definitely need this one.
Shop:
Up Next: I'm Spotting Every "Need to Know" Shoe Trend at Zara—6 I'm Losing It Over
Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.
-
5 Elegant Jewelry Trends From the '80s That Are Everywhere Again
Blast from the past.
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
NGL, This $58 Madewell Belt Is Maybe My Best Buy of the Season So Far
I need one in every color.
By Eliza Huber
-
Spring's Most-Wanted Accessories, From Hats to Handbags
Period.
By Eliza Huber
-
These Under-$30 Accessories From Amazon Will Make Your Outfits 10 Times Cooler
Including those viral drop earrings.
By Ana Escalante
-
I'm Updating My Basics in 2024—These Under-$100 Pieces Are in My Cart
They're basically trend-proof.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
The Sub-$150 Accessory I've Spotted on Every Single It Girl This Year
If it's good enough for Dua Lipa, it's good enough for me.
By Ana Escalante
-
I Wear-Tested 15 Viral Belts and Honestly Think These 5 Are Worth the Hype
It's true.
By Eliza Huber
-
These Are the Only Watches Celebrities Are Wearing Right Now
The timepieces to know.
By Anna LaPlaca