There's a reason why the word elegance in the context of fashion is often associated with high-priced designer items. The easiest way to appear graceful and refined at all times is to shop from the brands that offer the highest possible quality. Their materials are more luxurious, and the silhouettes fit and fall in the most effortless, sophisticated way. There's only one problem: Some of us are on a budget, and yes, I'm referring to myself. We can't all spend thousands of dollars building a wardrobe that makes getting dressed chic and easy, but that doesn't mean that we can't still achieve aesthetic elegance.
Trust me—I've been studying this look for a while now. Sure, a ton of expensive Prada, The Row, Alaïa, and Saint Laurent pieces will probably do the trick, but they aren't the only way to consistently ooze elegance. In my opinion, all you really need to do is head over to Zara, Massimo Dutti, and COS and select pieces from each of the three brands that exude grace without coming close to the same financial burden a designer haul would. To make the process that much simpler, I went ahead and did the work for you. Scroll down to shop 28 high-class finds from Zara, COS, and Massimo Dutti.
I can totally see Kelly Rutherford, the queen of elegance, in this cropped, fitted blazer.
These are selling too fast.
Whether you're headed on vacation or just out for a day of errands, this dress will always look gorgeous.
When in doubt, add a brooch.
Every item on the market that's chocolate brown is chic. It's basically a fact at this point.
Butter yellow, burgundy, and navy are probably 2024's most elegant shades.
Please, if you're headed on a warm vacation, pack this skirt. It's too good to not make it into your carry-on luggage.
Works of art.
If you can't quite splurge for the Saint Laurent tiny cat-eye sunglasses that Hailey Bieber loves, try this more affordable alt from COS.
This bag is kind of giving me The Row Idaho vibes.
Just toss this on with whatever—from long denim shorts to linen drawstring pants—and it'll look good.
White linen pants are a summer staple no matter what vibe you're going for.
I love how low-key and logoless these sneakers are.
I'm such a sucker for a '90s tube top.
Throw this skirt on with a cashmere sweater in the fall or a little white tank in the summer.
Wow, this dress could easily cost over $500, and I wouldn't question it.
These pumps are giving strong Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Gwyneth Paltrow vibes.
I haven't been able to stop thinking about the leopard coat from Michael Kors's F/W 24 collection. This is what I'm buying right now to fill the void.
This bag looks way pricier than $30.
These also come in black and tortoiseshell, and I think I need all three pairs.
A good hat is instrumental if you want a "chic Italian summer" vibe when the nice weather hits.
*Adds to cart.*
Oh, these are very good.
I searched for a baby-pink button-down shirt all summer last year. Once I found one, I wore it far too often.
This skirt lives at the corner of boho and elegant. It's kind of perfect.
The perfect summer sundress doesn't exist—oh, wait.
I think about these strappy sandals a lot.
Who can resist an LBD?
-
Looking Chic This November Means Owning These 10 ItemsBring on the compliments.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—29 Pieces I'm Eyeing Ahead of Black Friday That Will Get You Envious Stares and ComplimentsThese are guaranteed to elevate your wardrobe.
-
Yes, Chic Outfits Will Happen With These 32 New Items From Zara, J.Crew, COS, and H&MElevated knits, trend-forward outerwear, and more.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor Living in L.A.—30 New Zara Finds I'm Wearing From Now Until the New YearSomething chic for every occasion.
-
If Chic Sweater-and-Jeans Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, J.Crew, and NordstromHere's to a stylish fall and winter.
-
Everything From Zara, Gap, and Reformation I'm Adding to My Cart Ahead of Black FridayFrom satin skirts to faux-fur coats.
-
It's Almost Laughable to Think These 30 Zara Items Will Still Be in Stock on November 30Start that holiday shopping early.
-
We Tried The Viral Winter Coat Every New Yorker Owns—Here's Why It Lives Up the HypeFrom our closet, to yours.
