Dresses
Jan 1, 2022

I Polled My Friends, and We All Agree: These Under-$99 Dresses Look Rich

by Adrienne Faurote

I think we can all admit that sometimes, we just need to confide in our friends when shopping. There’s always one go-to group chat where outfits are approved, indulgent purchases are mulled over, and like-minded shopping opinions are shared. Since dresses are such an easy one-and-done purchase, I often find the category dominates the chat. In fact, one of our favorite pastimes is finding dresses that look like they are over $1000 but shockingly cost much less.

The best part? There is actually a plethora of dresses on the market, all of which look incredibly luxe without costing an arm and a leg. There are particular design details that have proven—time after time—to instantly elevate a dress. Think sophisticated fabrics like satins and silks or tasteful seaming details and cut-outs. Ahead, we’ve put together 29 expensive-looking dresses that will have your jaw on the floor because they’re all under $99. So spread the word to your fellow fashion confidants, and happy shopping!

H&M Sleeveless Dress

Sleeveless Dress

Just in case you’re planning a mid-winter tropical getaway.

Who What Wear Collection Aly Gathered Collared Dress

Who What Wear Collection

Aly Gathered Collared Dress

Bonus: This color will work equally well for spring.

Afrm Zoya Dress

A dress that leaves an impression!

H&M Rib-Knit Dress

For when you’re in cozy mode.

H&M Appliquéd Slip Dress

Appliquéd Slip Dress

The ’20s feel of this embellished dress is just right.

1. State Ponte Cut Out Dress in Rich Black

Ponte Cut Out Dress in Rich Black

Ponte is a fabric known for smoothing your figure.

Lioness Main Squeeze Midi Dress

Main Squeeze Midi Dress

Ribbing always looks expensive.

Mango Cut-Out Detail Dress

Cut-Out Detail Dress

Can you tell we’re into cut-outs right now? This dress isn't quite under $99, but we we couldn't resist including it anyway.

Endless Rose Satin Midi Dress

Satin Midi Dress

My, what a gorgeous color.

Zara Polo Collar Knit Dress

Polo Collar Knit Dress

Your polo dress is now ready for winter.

Endless Summer Adventurous Nights Set

Adventurous Nights Set

This is apparently two pieces, but it just looks like a cool cut-out dress.

English Factory Cozy Roundneck Sweater Dress

English Factory

Cozy Roundneck Sweater Dress

Why is oatmeal one of the all-time greatest sweater colors?

Reformation Rou Sleeveless Midi Dress

Rou Sleeveless Midi Dress

An easy dress to wear all year round.

Skims Ribbed Long Slipdress

Ribbed Long Slipdress

This dress has outrageously good reviews.

Astr the Label Ruched Long Sleeve Dress

Ruched Long Sleeve Dress

Cocktail hour just got more stylish.

Mango Patchwork Print Dress

Patchwork Print Dress

Proof that cottagecore works in the winter, too.

Urban Outfitters Courtnley Metallic Sweater Dress

Urban Outfitters

Courtnley Metallic Sweater Dress

Keyholes are the quickest way to my cart—I mean, heart.

Zara Metallic Thread Knit Dress Limited Edition

Metallic Thread Knit Dress Limited Edition

Zara’s styling ideas for this metallic midi are genius.

& Other Stories Belted Mini Knit Dress

& Other Stories

Belted Mini Knit Dress

This dress is sold out in black, and I think that’s a sign to go for the bold pink.