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. Just to prove that this is a thing, I searched some of my favorite affordable brands and retailers for all of the summer shopping picks that appear, in my mind, to be the definition of luxe looking. I even found that many of them repeated the same few themes, including neutrals, ribbed fabrics, and sumptuous knits.
While you might be looking to refresh your wardrobe for summer or just peruse this edit for a little mental escape, look no further than the below 27 items that I happen to think emulate this elevated vibe. From the celeb-approved sandals that are selling out quickly on Nordstrom to the stunning underwire bikini that you'd never guess is $70, I'm highlighting the best expensive-looking shopping picks of the moment.
One of the most wearable ways to do midriff floss.
Vanessa Hudgens nearly sold these out, but luckily, they're still in stock in several sizes.
The back is even better, if you can believe it.
Now, that's a stunner.
Okay, H&M—I see you.
No words necessary.
Mermaid vibes.
Shop the matching Tie Bikini Bottom ($30).
The kind of throw-on dress you'll be so glad you added to your closet.
The color and wide stitching set this apart from other basic tanks.
Prepare to get loads of compliments on this one.
A summer 2021 key piece.
Ribbing just always looks so luxe. I don't make the rules.
Shop the matching High Waist Ribbed Bikini Bottom ($45).
Pretty!
Well, this certainly doesn't look like it costs $50…
I think I just found my next going-out top.
Not to be biased, but we kind of went off with these.
If you told me this was a rare vintage find, I would totally believe you.
Sunglasses from the same factory as Prada and Superdry for $35? Sign me up.
The easy set I want to be wearing all summer long.
Shop the matching Paperbag Waist Shorts ($78).
The twisted detail here emulates a designer T-shirt.
Easy, simple, and chic.
Stacking a few rings is one of my favorite simple ways to elevate an outfit.
This set is selling out quickly (no surprise here), so I suggest you move quickly.
The polished basic everyone needs.
Tinx claimed this as *the* rich-mom dress of the summer. Enough said.
Anything in this color has my heart.
Stunning and timeless.
Up next, these are the best under-$100 items from Nordstrom's epic sales.
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You Want A Chic Handbag For Under $500? Say Less—I Love These 35 StylesTo gift or keep for yourself? The choice is yours.
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I'm a Stylist Who Travels Constantly—This Is All I Want to Wear After a Long TripFirst-class comfort.
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Writer and Store Owner Laurel Pantin Told Me Her Incredibly Chic Holiday Gift PicksInspiring and whimsical, as always.
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Not Snakeskin, Not Croc—These Two Underrated Animal Prints Are Quietly Staging a Fashion CoupFrom J.Crew to Khaite.
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These $50 Old Navy Zipped Boots Are Just as Chic as the $1500 Pair I Have Been Coveting Since Last WinterThey're on sale for $30 right now.
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25 Elevated Basics Worthy of a Fashion Person's Closet From Gap, Banana Republic, and Old NavyWho's in need of closet refresh?
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My Friends Love Reformation—I Sent Them 31 Gorgeous Picks I'm Eyeing Right NowOne of each, please.
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Sorry, Crewneck Tees—in 2026, Everyone With Taste Will Be Layering Sweaters Like ThisThe recipe for a perfect winter outfit.
