I have a secret. Ok, it’s not really a secret because I don’t care who knows. Here it is: I’m really cheap when it comes to my clothes. Pause for the slow clap…
When I say cheap I should probably say “wallet friendly” and when I say clothes I’m talking about what goes on my body that’s not an accessory. We all know my love for accessories trumps everything else, and if you’re new here, “Hi, my name is Erin and I’m addicted to shoes and bags.” I’ve always been one to invest in these items, but that’s mostly because I think you can get the most wear out of them, i.e. the most value (and I find it so much more fun shopping for them because let’s face it, they always fit).
And when I have a pair of shoes I love, I’m basically wearing them every day. Case in point, this Instagram post. I will wear a pair of shoes until they are literally falling off my feet. I had the heels rebuilt in a pair of Tory Burch boots because I just can’t quit them. They were expensive, yes, but I’ve had them for years and the leather continues to wear beautifully. I borderline abuse them season after season, rain or shine. If any shoe brands are reading this and you want someone to wear test the crap out of your product – I’m your girl.
But just because I enjoy finding the absolute best deal possible on clothing, doesn’t mean I’m ok with garments that look cheap. I grew up in fabric stores with my grandmother and mom who both sew incredibly well. They always taught me about the different fabric blends, how certain garments should really only be made from a certain kind of fabric, and how the feel of a woven material can make or break the style of garment it’s sewed into. Fabric is definitely something I pay attention to when it comes to my clothes. I couldn’t care less if my shirt is from Target or Nordstrom, as long as I feel like I got a great deal and it looks good on me.
So what if you’re not an expert on fabrics and really just want to elevate your day-to-day wardrobe in a budget-friendly way? I have a few easy suggestions to make your wardrobe look expensive, without breaking the bank.
5 Easy Ways to Elevate Your Wardrobe and Look Like a Million Bucks
1 – Go monochromatic
Elevating your wardrobe should always start with keeping it simple. A monochromatic look is easy to pull off. Just start by gathering pieces you already own and organizing your closet by color. A plain white $5 t-shirt tucked into white jeans looks amazingly chic. Plus it’s comfortable and takes no time at all to throw together.
2 – Incorporate one statement piece
This goes hand-in-hand with number 1. I love wearing a monochromatic look just so I can draw attention to one stand out like a special necklace or oversized pair of earrings, a printed clutch, or brightly colored shoe. The key is to just pick one.
3 – Invest in your shoes and/or bag
If there’s one place to spend money on your wardrobe and elevate your look, it’s in the shoe or bag department. This is probably where I shine the most. Hey, there are a lot worse things a person could collect. I mean, I might have a Silence of the Lambs moth-like obsession with shoes, but I promise I’m not crazy. A well-made pair of shoes or a well-made bag is often worth the investment.
4 – Wear neutrals
Beige, white, black, grey, blush…even leopard is considered a neutral these days. Wearing neutrals doesn’t have to translate boring. Think of it more as calming to the eye. It allows YOU to be seen and heard confidently, without all the noise of a lot going on in your outfit. Nothing says a million bucks like a cool and confident person. Neutrals give off a perception of being more expensive, just be careful of the fabric and you’re all set. A chic neutral turtleneck that pills is not so chic after all.
5 – Stock up on basics
You can find great basics at some very affordable places. I always love stocking up on tees at Target, like this relaxed pocket style. Old Navy has great options for basic tops like this simple v-neck. I also find great basics at H&M and J.Crew Factory (this tie-front tee is so pretty). Basic tops are great by themselves or layered under jackets and cardigans. And let’s not forget the original basic – jeans. Now that it’s become socially acceptable to wear denim just about everywhere, a pair of clean (no rips or holes) jeans in a solid color make a great basic, too.
How do you elevate your wardrobe? Do you have any tips for looking like a million bucks without actually spending it? If you splurge on one item, what is it?
My outfit details: StitchFix top (similar here, under $17 and here) // Lucky Jeans (similar here) // Flatform sandals (I bought these in Greece and can’t find a similar pair – sorry – but these are also one of my favorite platform sandals) // Bamboo bag (luxury version here) // Belt (it’s actually an old belt of my husband’s but I love the finish on this one)
xo – Erin
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