3 Things That Make Cheap Sweaters Look Expensive
For the most part, sweaters are not something I love to splurge on. I won’t act like I’ve never spent big on a a turtleneck or cardigan—even I'm not immune to the allure of Alexander Wang, and sometimes sweaters can be investment—but if you gave me the option, I'd much rather allot funds to designer shoes, coats, or bags. Of course, that’s just a personal preference, but I have a feeling some people are in the same boat. That's why today I thought I’d share with you the three things I look for when shopping for sweaters on a budget. Whether the garment checks one box, two, or all three, the below characteristics are all guaranteed to help you look luxe for less. Just keep scrolling to get started.
1. Thick Trims
The added detail of thick or long trimming along the neckline, cuffs, and/or waistband of a sweater has a way of making it look particularly high-end. It's also one of the easiest things to scan for in a store or when shopping online.
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2. Textures
Cable-knit and ribbed sweaters with texture have a tendency to look more luxe than your average plain-knit versions. They're pleasing to the eye and add another tactile element to any outfit.
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3. Rich Colors
Aside from black, rich shades such as camel, burgundy, navy, and charcoal make any garment look expensive, and sweaters are no exception. Style them with like colors or, of course, any neutral and you can't go wrong.
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Up next: I’m a picky shopper, and these under-$100 finds have my approval.
Since starting as an intern back in 2013, Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour has held several roles here at Who What Wear, and she is currently Editor-at-Large. Upon joining, she was a senior about to graduate from business school at USC. Fast-forward to 2025, and she's moved to NYC from her hometown of Beverly Hills and spends her workdays a little differently from when she was just starting out. Currently, she focuses on a weekly mélange of shopping content and her Trust Me—Buy This newsletter. As far as her personal style goes, she's largely drawn to neutral, classic pieces but will always make an exception for something colorful or bejeweled as long as it's deemed worthy enough. After all, the only thing she loves more than a party is dressing up for one. On her downtime, she can usually be found at home eating something delicious and trying to force her husband to watch Summer House.
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