Lately, it seems like you can't go outside or online without being faced with one hard reality: Prices are high. While the fiscal well-being of each person differs, there's no denying that the rise in the cost of everyday necessities has made most household budgets a bit tighter, making shopping less of a priority. However, just because our belts have tightened doesn't mean that we want to look like things have changed. In fact, one could argue that the cultural interest in fashion aesthetics, such as quiet luxury and old money, is driven by our collective desire to cosplay as the wealthy.
Whatever the rationale, it's quite common among the fashion crowd to want to curate a closet that looks expensive without spending too much money. Of course, that's easier said than done. It can be challenging at times to find chic and cheap items—it's a skill that takes time to build. Lucky for you, that's the point of my job. To help you find the best rich-looking summer finds, I've spent hours searching through the new-arrivals sections of some of our favorite retailers, including J.Crew, Nordstrom, Zara, and H&M. Whether you're looking for a few new summer staples or just want to look like you're a walking stack of cash, any of these 37 rich-looking summer items, all under $250, will do the trick.
"Throw on and go" earrings for every occasion.
A dress so good it makes one consider redownloading a dating app.
Strappy sandals will always be the shoes of choice for the summertime.
Now, here's a summer bag you can carry from the beach to the boardroom.
Elevate all your summer essentials by styling them with a silk scarf.
Sublime.
A collared shirt as crisp as a dollar bill.
Opt for longer denim shorts to elevate this summer staple.
Carrie Bradshaw would approve.
Bangles are so back, baby!
Chic, chic, chic.
A pop of color is never a bad idea.
Never underestimate the understated power of shell earrings.
Sharing in case you want to pretend you'll be sailing in Saint-Tropez this summer.
White jeans will always make all your summer outfits look 10 times wealthier.
White sneakers will always scream money.
It's not a designer bag, but it will certainly hold you over.
A white blazer is a must-have for a summer work wardrobe.
Styling your staples with a statement belt will make them look far more sophisticated.
Pleated shorts will always be the epitome of preppy.
You can wear these well into the fall.
Cord necklaces are currently having a moment.
I'd suggest investing in a slip skirt—it's a simple way to look snazzy this summer.
Hardware sandals are having a moment, FYI!
You'll wear this simple waistcoat more times than you can count.
You'll end up living in this skirt for the rest of the summer.
You can make any pair of shades look designer simply by choosing classic frames.
It's not your run-of-the-mill white T-shirt.
Even if you're not heading to the South of France, this straw tote will bring that je ne sais quoi to all your summer ensembles.
Throwing on a pair of satin pants is the simplest way to look (and stay) cool all summer.
Eighties vibes on deck.
If this dress doesn't prove that you don't have to spend a small fortune to look sophisticated this summer, nothing will.
These strappy sandals feel very designer coded.
Light layers are a must for late summer.
The scoop neckline adds a sophisticated touch to this summer staple.
You can dress these jeans up or down depending on your plans.
Honestly, I'm surprised that these sandals aren't sold out yet.
-
24 Chic Under-$100 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds That Are Taking Over My Fashion-Editor Text GroupLongchamp, Levi's, Madewell, and more.
-
I Swear By Elegant Outfits—35 Standout Items That Would Fit Right Into My ClosetHere's to a chicer outfit rotation.
-
25 Nordstrom Pieces That Channel Jacquemus's Effortless French MinimalismIf you want the Jacquemus look for less, you need to read this.
-
The Nordstrom Brands Fashion People Shop for Expensive-Looking Staples Are Discounted for the Anniversary SaleUnder-$100 pieces ahead.
-
30 Nordstrom (Sale!) Items That Are Giving Cool L.A. GirlDeep discounts ahead.
-
The 33 Best Anti-Trend Items at Zara, According to a Fashion EditorTime for a summer basics upgrade.
-
My Love Language Is Summer Linens and Cottons—J.Crew and Anthropologie Speak It FluentlyHeat-wave approved.
-
I'm a Former Nordstrom Buyer—This Is My Top 10 List From the Anniversary SaleThe expert is here.
