How do you find expensive-looking summer buys on the high street? After working in fashion for quite some time, it’s now pretty much instinct on what I think looks good and what I know could pass off as a designer piece. However, after selecting the following 30 affordable items, there are definitely a few boxes I need ticking to ensure that they look as expensive as possible. My number one rule is look at the material. A non man made fibre is ideal. Cotton, lyocell and linen are always materials I look to for that more luxe-looking sheen, especially for during the warmer months. The next tip is the silhouette of the piece. Does it fit with current trends that have come straight off the spring/summer 2021 catwalk? If so, I tend to think they look more designer. That said, classic items such as blazers and shirt dresses in muted tones will also give you a more riche look.
While most of the items below are quite simple, elegant pieces that could easily be mistaken for much more luxe labels, there are a still a couple of bolder looks that I’ve included. The main reason being the remind me of brands that are more expensive and will make your outfit stand out. Keep scrolling for more.
Even when crumpled, a linen shirt looks luxe.
I love the muted colour of this jumpsuit and how simple it is.
If in doubt, go really pared-back to give a off a riche vibe.
This colour is everything.
For me, this screams ‘rich-lady-on-holiday’.
If you’re after a jacket to give an outfit polish, I’ve found it.
Okay, these are a bit divisive. However, clogs have been everywhere from Hermès to Isabel Marant.
Pair with an oversized blazer and clogs.
Another muted colour that will look so great with jeans as well as trousers for those cooler summer days.
The perfect summer bag.
Jewellery doesn’t have to be expensive to look expensive.
All the Who What Wear editors agree that this jacket looks far more than £69.
I’ve spotted these on Mango and I can’t stop thinking about them.
A pair of straight-leg blue jeans (with no frayed hem) is my alternative to tailoring.
A stand-out blazer that won’t appeal to everyone but definitely hits that spring/summer 2021 button.
An A+ shirt dress that looks way more than it really is.
The colour, the ruching, the length—it’s all great.
If you’re looking to up your loungewear wardrobe, then Zara’s got your back.
This top isn’t for everyone but thanks to this being a huge trend for S/S ’21, the high street has rolled out a few similar pieces. This one from & Other Stories looks so designer to me.
A linen jumpsuit will always look chic.
I’m obsessed with subtle cut-outs right now.
This jacket colour looks incredibly chic. Buy it oversized for the best silhouette.
A great colour for this coming season.
I’ve seen this green everywhere on the S/S ’21 runways.
Our shopping editor, Joy, loves this dress.
A classic you can’t beat.
Take it from me, knitted dresses always look expensive.
This is the kind of jumpsuit I want to wear to the next wedding I’m invited to.
Such a great colour.
I’ve got this belted shirt dress sitting in my basket.
