I'm a Former Nordstrom Buyer—These 5 Items Make My Outfits Look Expensive

Susie Wright—the stylist, influencer, and former Nordstrom buyer—is always full of stellar style inspiration. In fact, she recently shared with us the fall basics she can't live without. She also posted an IG showcasing the color that makes everything look expensive. This piqued our interest, and we thought we'd ask her for the specific items she thinks makes any ensemble feel particularly high-end. You know—those pieces that are fashion-forward but also relatively affordable?
While the items she wears do vary in terms of price point (and she will invest in pieces such as accessories that have a strong cost per wear), the items she mentioned feel incredibly elevated and could be bought for under $100 based on what's currently out there in the market. Keep scrolling to check out the pieces in question, including everything from sleek outerwear to gorgeous faux-leather items. You'll also find a range of under-$100 shopping recommendations throughout.
1. Camel Pieces
"Camel is the color I can think of that instantly adds sophistication and elegance to any outfit."
2. Faux-Leather Items
"A must-have for this season, faux leather can easily pass for real leather but at a fraction of the cost. A faux-leather blazer, dress, or jumpsuit is current and cool."
3. Classic Denim
"Denim is always stylish and adds a chic twist to any outfit. Since we all love denim, try dressing your favorite pair up by adding a blazer and strappy sandals. You'll feel quite put-together."
4. Black Separates
"All black. It always, always elevates your look. Your outfit will appear more elegant and expensive, even if you scored a deal."
5. Fashion-Forward Accessories
"You really don't need to spend a lot to get a really nice belt, stylish handbag, or trendy jewelry. Accessories will complete your outfit and make you look polished and ready to go."
The story was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated. Next, check out more fall staples.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 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 retailers 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.
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