Apr 15, 2020

All the Expensive-Looking Outfits I Like Have These 6 Wardrobe Basics in Common

by Anna LaPlaca

It's a tale as old as time, but it rings true: You don't have to spend a lot on your outfit for it to look elevated and expensive. In fact, just to prove that this is a thing, I mined my Saved folder on Instagram for all the outfits that appear, in my mind, to be the definition of luxe-looking. I even found that many of them repeated the same few specific types of wardrobe basics.

So while we all look to restock our basics from time to time, it all comes down to shopping for them with the specific details in mind if you're looking to emulate this elevated vibe. For example, instead of simply typing "tank top" into your browser, instead try searching for "square-neck tank tops," specifically because the neckline makes the basic tank appear more current. It's the details like these that will add up to a current and elevated wardrobe.

With that, I've highlighted six of these elevated basics and explained why certain details make them stand out. Keep scrolling to discover them all.

Photo:

@tylynnnguyen

Ribbed knitwear, as opposed to any other kind of knitwear, will almost always look expensive. You can spend $10 to $100 on an item and yet the ribbing gives off the same luxurious quality, every single time.

Photo:

@claire_most

Like we mentioned before, square-neck tank tops (and bodysuits, for that matter) are the simple upgrade that makes a lasting impact. Since the neckline is more current than a scoop or high neck, opting for a square-neck tank will have your outfit looking fresher.

how to make your loungewear look expensive

Photo:

@modedamour

When it comes to wardrobe basics, I don't know why, but off-white shades of stone and ecru always look more updated than the same exact versions in plain black or plain white. Maybe it's because these neutrals have a luxuriousness about them inherently or maybe it's because they're slightly harder to find in your go-to tees and joggers. Regardless of the reason, they ensure an expensive-looking outfit.

Photo:

@sylviemus_

Ahh, good old blazers. We know we've hammered the idea of owning one into minds, but let me add a few more thoughts on the matter. Blazers—specifically oversize and boxy cuts in neutral colors—don't have to be designer to look it. I poured over all my favorite blazer looks and kept coming back to these few details that make them all so stylish.

Photo:

@nycbambi

You might see a satin or silk piece on Instagram and assume it's quite pricey, but that's not always the case. Anything with "bias cut" in the style name will automatically come off as elevated, whether it be a classic slip skirt, slip dress, or satin cowl-neck top.

Photo:

@deborabrosa

When was the last time you bought a belt? Let me guess—it was long enough ago not to remember. While it's not one of the most exciting purchases to make, having a classic leather belt in your closet can do wonders for elevating your simplest outfits. Yes, even jeans and a tee stand to appear more expensive-looking, as evidenced by Debora's look above.