The designer pieces lining the windows of Rodeo Drive. The gala guests draped in custom couture. The fashion bloggers always looking runway-ready. Their outfits seem to effortlessly exude luxury and style.

What’s their secret? Is high fashion only accessible if you have an A-list budget? Quite the contrary. With some thoughtfully chosen affordable pieces and a few simple tweaks, you can elevate the look of any outfit.

The Power is in the Fit

Before considering upgrades to your wardrobe, priority number one is getting the right fit. A $50 pair of jeans tailored to fit your body just right will look infinitely more elevated than $200 designer denim hanging loosely.

Proper fit means:

• Hems hitting at the most flattering spot, usually right above the ankle bone for pants and skirts
• Waist and hip seams smoothly contouring against your silhouette
• Shoulders properly accentuating the width and line of your upper body
• Sleeve length ending just before the wrist bone for fluid movement

Getting a custom tailored fit doesn’t have to break the bank either. Many dry cleaners offer basic tailoring services for reasonable prices. Focus first on fine tuning everyday closet staples – imagine how pulled together a crisp white button down would look properly darted!

Texture and Fabric Elevate the Ordinary

Another easy style upgrade is mixing textures and fabrics that share an elevated aesthetic. The interplay between contrasting textures adds visual depth and dimension.

Creative Layering

Take a basic short sleeve t-shirt. Pair it with a leather jacket on top and a silk skirt on the bottom.

Suddenly an everyday basic is now a high fashion statement! The leather provides edge and structure while the silk lends fluidity and sheen.

Choosing pieces with metallic accents, soft wool, cozy knits, or natural linen creates the same impact.

Accessorize Strategically

When it comes to accessories, focus on acquiring key investment pieces to incorporate into multiple looks over seasons.

Stick to neutrals. A black designer handbag in a classic style easily integrates into any color scheme. The same goes for metallic or nude pointy toe kitten heels.

Try vintage and resale stores hunting forAUTHENTIC luxury brand silk scarves and leather gloves. A real designer item goes far even if secondhand.

If new, shop end-of-season sales online at stores like Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Shopbop to score designer accessories at discounted prices.

Mind the Little Details

Elevated style ultimately comes down to confidence. Pay attention to those last little details that make an outfit feel consciously curated.

• Keep shoes polished and bags cleaned
• Schedule monthly blowouts for glossy locks
• Moisturize skin and hands
• File and shape nails (no chips!)

Right before walking out the door, do a final once over in the mirror. Are there any strings, wrinkles, lint, or tags that need to be tailored? Any last minute touches that can level up the look?

With some strategic shopping and simple tweaking, your next head-to-toe ensemble is sure draw eyes and compliments. Who said you needed to a celebrity stylist and bottomless budget to look red carpet fabulous? Implement even one of these tips above and watch your outfit transform instantly.

The Takeaway

The key to expensive style lies not in cost but in fit, texture, accessories, polish and confidence. Elevate everyday outfits with proper tailoring, luxe layering pieces, and designer investment items. Mind the little details. And most importantly, wear it like you already paid a million bucks for it!