You might assume that to look expensive, you need to buy eye-wateringly expensive things, but looking rich isn’t just about flashy logos and jewellery so valuable it must be stored in a safe. There are little tricks that can make any outfit look more elevated, from ensuring your shirts are always crisp to the colours that appear to add a couple of zeros to the cost of your outfit.
Many of these styling rules have been set by stealth-wealth luxury brands, such as The Row and Phoebe Philo for Céline, who show that timeless, classic pieces always add an air of sophistication to your look. Think biscuit-coloured knitwear, an oversized trench coat and a perfectly starched white shirt. Intrigued? Keep scrolling to see the 9 things that will always make you look richer than you are (without sending your bank balance into the red).
Style Notes: An easy way to look expensive is to make sure your clothes are as immaculate as possible and in our book, nothing looks as luxurious as a crisply pressed, white shirt. Plus, you don’t actually have to go to the dry cleaner; just invest in a decent steamer.
I love Arket’s shirts. Opt for a size up to get that chic, relaxed feel.
This style is sure to last you a lifetime.
Wear with jeans, leggings, leathers and more.
Style Notes: A tonal outfit always looks polished. Choose shades like cream, camel, white and beige and mix and match luxe textures like leather, wool and silk for an even sleeker take.
The whole Who What Wear team love H&M’s knitwear offering.
This has shot right to the top of my wish list now…
Ultra soft and ultra stylish.
Style Notes: Commuting stops most of us from wearing heels, but few footwear options say luxe like heeled pumps do. Whether you wear them with denim, dresses or wide-leg trousers, they’re bound to make a statement. Choose monochrome to ensure they go with everything in your wardrobe.
The best of the best.
A white heeled mule always looks chic.
Buy now, love forever.
Just in time for party season…
Style Notes: Invest in quality fabrics such as silk; timeless, elegant pieces add an air of sophistication to your look and can easily be dressed up or down. Plus, the high street has a great offering of such pieces right now. Rejoice!
H&M has a great offering of silk-blend pieces right now. I love this matching shirt and trouser set.
Pair with great jeans and you’re set.
It’s not just silk shirts that have caught our eye. This blouse is perfect for any upcoming parties or events.
Just wow. I’ll dress this up with black jeans and heels or wear with baggy denim and chunky boots for a more casual feel.
Style Notes: Another key way to always look and feel put together is to appear well groomed, and an oversized sturdy umbrella with a wooden handle will ensure your immaculate blow-dry (or whatever hair style you’re nailing that day) stays in place, no matter the weather.
The best umbrella money can buy.
Style Notes: Birkins are the ultimate status handbag, and like most expensive bags, they’re usually looped over the elbow. Pick your fighter and carry it in the crook of your elbow to emulate the vibe.
It’s not just the banana bag that COS is nailing right now…
Bottega’s burgundy top handle bag is just dreamy.
I love this simple yet elegant Zara style.
Style Notes: An amazing watch is so much chicer than scrambling for your phone to find the time. We recommend going for an understated look.
A girl can dream, right?
I can’t believe how expensive this under-£100 watch looks.
Style Notes: All Who What Wear editors agree, a tailored coat or classic trench instantly elevates any outfit. Choose camel or monochrome for extra style points.
COS never fails us when it comes to fantastic outerwear.
Navy is always a wise choice.
Opt for a belted iteration if you want to cinch yourself in more.
Style Notes: Mini handbags have become a status symbol. In fact, Gigi Hadid often leaves the house with a tiny handbag that’s only big enough for a lipstick and a credit card. Because, really, what more could you need?
Loewes’ Puzzle bag is beloved by editors, influencers and celebs. The brand’s mini style is just perfect.
Don’t limit yourself to just black or beige when it comes to bags. This forest green mini is beautiful and will go with so many other colours in your wardrobe.
Gold and mini? This is the perfect party bag.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
