5 Seconds to a Fashionable Look—5 Affordable Items That Will Enhance an Outfit

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

To me, a "special fashion item" is an item you can add to an outfit to take it to the next level. It's the idea that you can enhance an ensemble in only five seconds. And yes, you get bonus points if said fashion-forward piece skews toward the more affordable side. I'm talking under $100.

Below, I'm sharing the five extra-special seasonal standouts I think will instantly add a chic twist to any look. Think earrings with a cool silhouette to amp up an everyday look. To showcase these items in action, I pulled inspirational imagery from some of my favorite fashion followers. If you vibe with any (or all) of the pieces, check out the shopping recommendations I sprinkled throughout.

Drop Earrings

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(Image credit: @greceghanem)

In the jewelry realm, gorgeous drop earrings have incredible styling power. Simply add a cool pair, like the style featured here, to your everyday look, and the compliments will roll in.

Ballet Flats

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(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Whether it's casual or dressed up, your outfit will feel all the more modern and current with the addition of ballet flats. So chic.

Oversize Button-Down Shirt

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(Image credit: @taniceelizabeth)

You can't deny the power of an oversize button-down shirt. Add one to any look, and you have yourself an instantly chic look. It's a total fashion-person staple. 

Belt

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(Image credit: @modedamour)

Belts are certainly not a new concept. But this trusty accessory is currently the style setter's go-to way of adding a little extra punch to a great outfit. 

Denim Skirt

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

The denim skirt is having such a moment among the fashion crowd. Consider swapping in a denim style, whether it's a maxi silhouette or a shorter cut, to give your look a very right-now vibe.

Next, check out more outfit ideas.

Bobby Schuessler
Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retialers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.