It was once far too easy to spot a non-designer item in a sea of designer ones, but these days, designers have gotten quite good at whipping up pieces that would leave even the most advanced luxury experts stumped. Under-$150 tops, shoes, and dresses can appear just as pricey as over-$1000 ones, if not more, making it significantly easier to build a wardrobe of both designer and non-designer items that blend seamlessly together.
As a fashion editor who wants to look expensive but can't afford to buy only designer pieces, there's hardly anything that brings me more satisfaction than discovering these sartorial anomalies. Because of that, I decided to turn my obsession into work by going through all of my favorite retailers—from Nordstrom and Moda Operandi to H&M and J.Crew—and plucking out shockingly expensive-looking and actually expensive pieces that go together like two side-by-side pieces of a puzzle. A perfect fit.
Scroll down to shop the selection.
Turtleneck tops are a classic for good reason. They're eternally chic.
This colorway just dropped, and damn, I'm in love.
This dress is giving chic Laura Harrier vibes.
Tortoiseshell sunglasses can sometimes feel even more elegant than black ones.
This brand's website is basically a treasure trove for gorgeous ready-to-wear.
If it's off the shoulder and slightly drapey, I want it. You can hold me to that.
The darker wash makes this long denim skirt look very luxe.
If I didn't know better, I'd think this belt cost more than $300.
Easy and elegant.
This braided Anthro tote will bring forth all the compliments. Trust me—I've read the TikTok comments.
For all of your Hamptons and Nantucket weekend trips this summer.
I can't get enough of big '80s-era earrings.
This color is rich with a capital R.
Liberowe's coats, dresses, and tops are genuine pieces of art.
A maxi skirt to wear forever.
Kiss the ring.
If a white vest is good enough for Sofia Richie to wear it to her wedding, it's good enough for you—end of story.
I just tried these on at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale preview, and I was extremely impressed.
This is one of Katie Holmes's new favorite bags.
In love.
Color me impressed.
Comes in black and white.
Far too classic to pass up.
The two-tone colorway allows for all kinds of jewelry options.
I've Slacked my entire team about this stunning Abercrombie dress.
A literal dream.
A pretty pick for fall.
The retro energy is high.
A crisp, white, button-down shirt is elite—period.
I'm acting fast to get a pair of my own.
This material feels like literal butter.
The shape of these trousers makes them look so pricey.
This top is perfect for showing off a great pair of earrings.
If you don't already own these, now's your chance.
I'm sick over this dress. For real, someone call a doctor.
Dare to wear this all-lace maxi. You won't regret it.
Simply perfect.
Just easy.
I tried on so many pieces at Madewell last week, and these white trousers were my favorite.
The shape of this bag is gorgeous, but it's the color that really won me over.
It's a need, not a want.
Classic old money shoes that'll never go out of style.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic Rich-Looking Pieces for Fall 2025Everything is under $100.
-
My Mom Only Shops at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls—Here's What She Sent Me to Buy for Fall 2025She had me at under-$100 Uggs and Levi's.
-
The New Elite Way to Shop Is Off the Grid and Invite OnlyIf you know, you know.
-
I Just Started Investing—31 Chic Pieces That Will Have Me Dressing the PartEffortless and elevated is the goal.
-
I Shopped so You Don't Have to—the Ultimate Fashion-Editor Fall 2025 Wish ListIt-girl fall has arrived.
-
The Refined Edit: 32 Luxury Finds on Sale at SaksStarting at just $58.
-
Better Than Ballet Flats (and Loafers): The Shoe Trend It Girls in NYC and Paris Will Be Wearing This FallIt's classic but fresh at the same time.
-
Editor Instincts Activated: We're Grabbing These 18 Fall Pieces Before Everyone Else DoesRun, don't walk.
