I'm a Fashion Expert—10 Expensive-Looking Staples Every Wardrobe Could Benefit From

I admit it; I have expensive taste, and I'm also quite (read: very) picky. I always have been. When I was a teenager, knowledge of labels generally wasn't as prevalent as now. (We have the internet and social media to thank for that.) But even then, I found myself gravitating towards pieces of substance and brands of note over the quick and easy wardrobe updates that would tempt my friends. I dressed older than my years, which, at the time, sometimes meant I felt the opposite of "trendy". Looking back, however, at photographs of my best friend's 16th birthday party, to which I wore wide-leg tailored trousers and a silky camisole, I'm just grateful that such photographs don't make me cringe today.

Now, a fully-fledged adult, I'm still picky and have the same expensive taste. My budget, however? Well, it doesn't always allow me to indulge in the latter. As such, I've become something of a dab hand at spotting expensive-looking pieces at any price point, as well as unearthing the pieces that are worth a more significant investment. Generally speaking, these are classic wardrobe staples—pieces that will forever be stylishly appropriate. Below, I've listed 10 such items, with shopping from our favourite high-street and premium brands to match.

From the dress that will carry you through a host of occasions to the denim update that will make your outfits look more premium, scroll on to see the expensive-looking fashion staples your wardrobe will always benefit from.

1. BLACK SATIN DRESSES

Style Notes: Of all the dress trends out there, none look quite so expensive as those featuring satin fabrications. Be it for weddings or just elevated weekend attire, there’s no occasion a black satin dress can’t handle.

Shop the Look:

2. ECRU JEANS

Style Notes: Lighter-coloured jeans always make a comeback in the warmer months, but I think they look just as good in autumn/winter too when paired with cosy knits. As is often the case, it’s the little things that can make your outfits more premium—instead of opting for pure white jeans, I suggest looking for off-white or ecru pairs, as they tend to look more expensive.

Shop the Look:

3. WHITE SKIRT

Style Notes: If your goal is to look rich and unbothered, a white skirt will certainly get you there. Whether you opt for a pleated, poplin or a-line style, this is an item that you'll pull out of your wardrobe all year round.

Shop the Look:

4. BERMUDA SHORTS

Style Notes: A pair of shorts is a warm-weather classic (and there's no harm in investing in a pair now ready for next year!), this we know, but if you’re in the market for something that looks a little more elevated, seek out longer styles that are currently dominating the fashion scene. With more of a focus on sleek, tailored silhouettes, these look more expensive in my eyes.

Shop the Look:

5. STRIPE KNITWEAR

Style Notes: Perhaps the most in-demand item on our list, striped knitwear is proving incredibly popular with fashion people right now. There’s just something so inherently luxe about a Breton stripe.

Shop the Look:

6. NAVY TAILORING

Style Notes: Rotate your black tailoring with pieces in a softer but no-less-sleek navy hue. A classic that'll never fail to impress.

Shop the Look:

7. PEARL JEWELLERY

Style Notes: When I want to look like I’ve put considerable amounts of effort into my look but, in reality, have neither the time nor the patience to do so, I simply add pearl jewellery. Et voilà—your outfit looks expensive.

Shop the Look:

8. CANVAS TOTES

Style Notes: Though I do have a soft spot for basket bags, this year, I’m looking to invest in a chic canvas tote, as I generally find they look more elevated than my beloved basket weaves.

Shop the Look:

9. RELAXED SHIRTS

Style Notes: Though they were prevalent last year, the relaxed shirt has returned for 2024, with so many influencers wearing theirs on repeat. Effortless and endlessly versatile, it’s key pieces like this that make whatever you’re wearing look timeless and, thus, more expensive. Linen is a good shout for summer, but a breezy cotton poplin works year round, too.

Shop the Look:

10. LOAFERS

Style Notes: Loafers are a classic wardrobe staple that will never go out of style. Thanks to brands like The Row and Gucci, who put them on the map, they’re considered to be a very premium footwear choice (even if you buy yours on the high street).

Shop the Look: