These Pieces Look and Feel Like Luxury, But They're All Under $250
As someone who's perpetually on a budget but has expensive taste, I have become pretty adept at finding pieces that feel like luxury without breaking the bank. Wanting to dress from head to toe in the likes of The Row and Khaite and not being able to afford it isn't going to stop me from trying. Thankfully, there are a plethora of expensive-looking items under $250 that curb those designer cravings.
The key is to keep an eye out for pieces with luxe-looking details like a tailored fit, natural fabrics, and leather-like materials. Beyond that, I search for options that are inspired by the latest designer collections without the price tag. Nordstrom, H&M, Zara, and Mango happen to be some of my favorite haunts in this regard.
Keep scrolling to shop 30 of my top affordable luxury fashion picks this season, from standout jackets to stylish dresses and chic jewelry. Your friends will never be able to guess their true price tag.
I'm getting '90s Donna Karan from this slinky top.
Shop the matching Satin Maxi Skirt ($198).
Next up: This Shoe Trend Goes With Every Single Dress Trend

Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.
-
Satin! Cashmere! Soft Things! 19 Luxe-Looking Cozy Basics, UGGs, and Accessories for a Chic WinterJ.Crew, Gap, Aritzia, and more.
-
Nordstrom Just Dropped the 5 Winter Trends All the Coolest Girls Will Be Wearing Next MonthShop the edit inside.
-
I'm a Former Nordstrom Buyer, and This Is What I'm Buying From the Incredible Cyber Monday SaleMy expert list.
-
25 Zara Pieces That Look Like They Belong in a Ski Chalet in VerbierMountain chic.
-
Every Celeb From J.Lo to Kate Middleton Knows to Put on This Classic Outfit When They're Unsure of What to WearDon't worry. This look will save you every time.
-
It’s Almost Ridiculous To Believe These 27 Anthropologie Black Friday 2025 Finds Won’t Sell OutScore 30% off French-girl trench coats, cashmere sweaters, and more.
-
I'm a Shopping Editor and I'm Live Shopping the Nordstrom Black Friday Sale—I Can't Get Over These Fashion and Beauty DealsShop in real time.
-
I Saved My Sister $408 With These Rich-Looking Items From H&M’s Black Friday DealsShop up to 60% off on elevated pieces.

