Shopping

55 Expensive-Looking Outfits That Are Actually Cheap AF

Wardrobe updates that look ultra-chic without crunching your budget.

by Andrea Gale
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Shopping on a budget doesn’t have to mean settling for lower quality. By looking for pieces that include special details — like a trending cut or an interesting texture — you can build a wardrobe that looks luxe even if the items themselves don’t cost very much. Consider this list your virtual stylist companion, curating all the best expensive-looking outfits that are actually cheap AF. These gems are guaranteed to get your wardrobe looking ultra-chic without crunching your budget. Scroll on to explore the finds.

1A Popular Button-Down Offered In So Many Artsy Prints

In an eye-catching print, you’d expect to find this button-down in a pricey boutique — the polished fabric and collared silhouette make a timeless yet modern addition to any wardrobe. The easy cut hits right at the hip with a soft drape that’s easy to tuck into trousers and jeans. With nearly 20,000 perfect five-star ratings, this affordable find is a must-buy. Choose from 20 eclectic prints.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 20

2A Matching Lounge Set That’s Polished AF

It’s the contrasting trim that gets this matching lounge set cooking. The trim runs the perimeter of the long-sleeved top and pull-on pants, each piece accentuated by a split cuff and hemline. In a sweater-like knit, this piece delivers equal parts comfort and luxury.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 6

3A Double-Breasted Blazer That Exudes Quiet Luxury

With gold-toned buttons and a double-breasted silhouette cut from a textured plaid tweed, this blazer practically screams quiet luxury — and it’s remarkably wallet-friendly. The oversized fit and flap front pockets deliver an on-trend shape and a lot of layering potential, from dresses to jeans and tanks.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 9

4A Statement-Making Ruffled Tulle Maxi Skirt

Rows and rows of fluffy tulle create a statement-making maxi skirt that makes dressing up a cinch. Featuring a smooth elastic waistband, the skirt pulls right on — and needs very little in the way of accessories. Pair it with a simple form-fitting top and let the fluffy texture do the heavy lifting.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 8

5A Coatigan That Makes Any Outfit Look Ultra-Polished

With its pointed lapel collar and patch front pockets, this duster cardigan is serving blazer vibes; the smooth knit dances between cozy and polished, making it ridiculously easy to style. Relaxed but not oversized, you can pair it with office wear or style it with casual denim — no wrong answers here.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 28

6An Off-The-Shoulder Dress That’s Ready For Date Night

Date night dressing can be as effortless as popping on this dress; the asymmetrical off-the-shoulder neckline and bodycon skirt are instantly evening-ready. The bodice blouses a bit, to provide a little laid-back contrast; a chic silhouette nobody would guess is so accessible.

  • Available sizes: 4-6 — 20-22
  • Available colors: 20

7A Femme Bow-Trimmed Blouse

Augment your button-down collection by adding this blouse; the Peter Pan collar and bow-tie accents make a femme — but no less classic — alternative. Texture is a simple way to signal high quality, and this top is rendered in a lustrous chiffon-type fabric that doesn’t disappoint.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 6

8Vintage-Inspired High-Waisted Trousers

Vintage-inspired details like a high waist and pleated front lend these trousers an air of luxury. Obviously you’ll wear them to the office — imagine how chic the wide-leg silhouette would be with a baggy button-down — but you can also dress them down with a casual T-shirt.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large (including short and long sizes)
  • Available colors: 14

9A Matching Outfit With Contrasting Details

Comprised of a short-sleeved sweater and bloused pants, this two-piece set’s magic stems from its contrasting details. The top features a chunkier knit, while the texture of the bottoms is more fine — with both in shades that complement but don’t match exactly, for an instantly curated aesthetic.

  • Available sizes: Small — Large
  • Available colors: 4

10An Occasion-Worthy Midi Skirt Set

Simple, it might be — but this skirt set is still occasion-worthy thanks to the buttery, curve-clinging fabric and perfectly proportioned silhouette. The short-sleeved top features a close fit while the pull-on skirt flares out from the waist. Sophisticated and minimalist, the set only needs the right heels to be ready for the night.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 19

11A Button-Down Striped Shirt With Wide Smocked Cuffs

A button-down striped shirt like this belongs in every closet; the classic collared menswear-inspired design comes with tons of styling potential. This version introduces a bit of femme detail in the form of wide smocked cuffs, which structure the oversized silhouette and add a sophisticated surprise.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 11

12A Pullover That Features Dramatic Exaggerated Cuffs

Featuring dramatic exaggerated cuffs, this pullover manages to walk the line between minimalist and attention-grabbing in a thick knit that further elevates the aesthetic. The look is intentionally oversize, and a natural choice when it comes to layering. More than a few shoppers called it their new favorite, raving about its perfect fit and soft knit.

  • Available size: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 19

13A Belted Cardigan That Drapes So Nicely

Designed with a handkerchief hem, this roomy cardigan drapes so well — the slightly slouched fit and soft knit appear positively plush. The style includes an optional tie at the waist, and belt loops to keep it in place; try it tied in the back to let the waterfall front really shine.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 12

14A Cowl-Neck Blouse In Lustrous Chiffon

In lustrous chiffon, this blouse can dress up even a simple pair of jeans; the oversized fit hits at the hip, with a straight hem that’s stylish whether tucked and bloused or worn loose. Fluttery short sleeves skim below the elbow, echoing the top’s breezy silhouette — proof that “expensive-looking” and “simple” aren’t mutually exclusive.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 19

15A Buttoned Cardigan With A Peplum Hem

Sometimes it’s the fit that gives a piece that high-end sensibility; this cardigan, for example, features a defined waist and subtle peplum hem. These surprising yet understated details elevate the simple knit, accented by wide ribbed trim — and qualify it for use as both a layering piece and a standalone top.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 11

16A Satin Tank That’ll Stay In Steady Rotation

There are so many ways to style this satin tank, it’s bound to stay in constant rotation. The wide straps and V-neckline show a little skin while remaining appropriate for daytime — and the fabric’s luster has more than enough ‘rizz for evening. With a easy hip-length fit, it’s the sort of timeless staple every wardrobe deserves.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 16

17A Western-Chic Vest Lined In Cozy Fleece

Crafted from rich faux suede and lined in sherpa-like fleece, this Western-inspired vest taps current trends without appearing costume-y. A straight, hip-length hem and slightly boxy fit give the snap-front design a slight modern sensibility that contrasts with the otherwise outdoorsy silhouette.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 6

18A Romantic Layered Mesh Midi Skirt

In romantic layered mesh, this midi skirt makes event dressing easy. Designed with an elastic waistband and a length that hits below the knee, it needs little in the way of accessorizing; add a simple, form-fitting top to keep proportions balanced, and a sleek heel.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 10

19Belted Dress Pants That Tie At The Waist

All it takes is a bow tie at the waist to steer these pants into statement-making waters; combined with the wide-leg silhouette and smooth fabric, the aesthetic is undeniably deluxe. Pleats at the front and two side pockets further structure the look — which, thanks, to an elasticized waistband, is also ultra-comfy.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 14

20A Pleated Sweatshirt That’s Anything But Basic

From the pleated yoke to the dropped shoulders and the buttery fabric, it’s clear: This sweatshirt is anything but basic. The simple design will undoubtedly become a fixture of your casual and lounging wardrobes; the cropped hem lends structure and intention to the easy fit, with a hint of stretch for movement.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 15

21A Fishtail Maxi Dress That Brings Spicy Vibes To The Function

If you’re looking for a sultry, dressy outfit, consider this maxi dress; the bodycon fit and fishtail hem create a long, curving shape. Designed with simple tank straps and a square neckline, all you need is the right pair of heels and a clutch.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 7

22A Dressy Take On The Classic T-Shirt

With sleeves that hit just above the elbow and a low mock neckline, this top is a dressier version of the classic T-shirt. The form-fitting silhouette is crafted from oh-so-soft fabric that’s every bit as wearable as your other T-shirts — and just as versatile, too. More than 5,000 shoppers have given it a five-star rating.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 31

23A Hippie-Chic Lace Blouse With A Built-In Camisole

Free-spirited fashions have made a comeback, and this lace blouse is a chic way to sample the trend. The sheer design features a mock neckline and wide ruffled cuffs lending further romantic detail. A built-in camisole pulls double-duty, providing a layered look and additional coverage.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 11

24A Sleek Mock-Neck Bodysuit With 36,000+ Perfect Ratings

Don’t sleep on this bodysuit; the curve-clinging mock-neck design makes it a layering essential. So popular that over 36,000 shoppers have given it a five-star rating, the fabric is blended with a bit of stretch to ensure it keeps its shape — and snaps at the full-coverage bottom keep the design in place under clothing.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 33

25A Button-Down Shirt In Eye-Catching Prints

An eye-catching print imbues this button-down shirt with such personality, you’d never guess it was so wallet-friendly. Bloused sleeves are accentuated by wide buttoned cuffs, with breezy chiffon fabric putting a dressy twist on the classic silhouette.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 21

26A Stretchy Jumpsuit That’s Evening-Ready

Dressing for an evening out is ridiculously simple with this jumpsuit; the fitted mock-neck top and wide-leg bottom create the illusion of a curated two-piece look. Ruching at the sides and pleating at the waist deliver a little extra zhuzh, while a hidden zipper at the back holds to the piece’s minimal aesthetic.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 15

27A Short-Sleeved Polo Sweater For Your New Prep Aesthetic

Short sleeves and a collared neckline, all in a cozy cable knit: This is the sweater for honing the neo-prep aesthetic. Designed with a hip-length hem accented by ribbed trim, you’ll wear this sweater into the office, and pair it with denim and deck shoes on days off.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 26

28Shockingly Wearable Tapered Satin Trousers

In lustrous satin, these tapered leg trousers make a chic alternative to a dress; darted at the waist, the minimalist flat-front cut can be styled with tons of tops already in your wardrobe. An elastic back waistband and a bit of stretch in the fabric render their tailored fit comfortably wearable, so don’t be surprised if they become a fave.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large (available in long inseams)
  • Available colors: 19

29A Maxi Dress In Body-Hugging Floral Mesh

Floral mesh in a body-hugging fit qualifies this dress for membership in your evening-wear collection; ruched at the sides, it includes a thigh-high slit for a little extra drama. Long sleeves and a high crew neckline offer enough coverage that you could still wear this to a work event or daytime party, though.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 18

30A Half-Zip Sweatshirt That Gets Proportions Just Right

The magic of this sweatshirt lies in its perfectly balanced proportions. The plush fabric is cut into an oversized fit with long, roomy sleeves; these slouchy details are contrasted by a tailored length and a half-zip neckline, which add preppy polish to the casual design — while the front kanga pocket is loungewear perfection.

  • Available sizes: XX-Small — 2X-Large
  • Available colors: 32

31A Jumpsuit That Can Take You From Day To Night

If you’ve got an event after work, this jumpsuit can accommodate both dress codes; designed with long lantern sleeves and a bloused belted top, the smooth stretch fabric and otherwise minimalist design have the coverage needed for in-office days with the zhuzh you seek in evening looks.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 9

32Wide-Leg Yoga Pants Shoppers Adore

Beloved by fans, these yoga pants have earned over 7,000 five-star ratings from shoppers. The wide-leg silhouette gives an on-trend twist to the athleisure essential, while stretchy fabric and a high-waisted fit ensure you’ll be comfy as you lounge or exercise. The side pockets make it easy to skip out the door with just your essentials.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large (including petite and tall sizes)
  • Available colors: 28

33A Gold-Buttoned Cardigan In Nautical Stripes

A bold striped print and gold-toned buttons give this cardigan a nautical flair; two patch front pockets further structure the look. Designed with a high crew neckline, it features an easy fit that can work either as an outer layer or styled as a standalone top. It’d be effortlessly chic with denim and a trending ballet flat, or knotted over the shoulders.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 13

34A Cozy Maxi Dress That Leaves No Crumbs

Crafted from soft and stretchy fabric, this maxi dress is having a moment. The long-sleeved design might be minimal, but it lets the shape do the talking. Its long-sleeved bodycon design is rendered even more on-trend with the addition of a squared neckline; a small yet impactful detail that sets this piece apart.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 9

35A Striped Crewneck Top For Channeling Your Inner French Girlie

For embodying French-girl chic, this top is unbeatable. The striped print and crewneck silhouette are timeless — exactly the sort of piece that evokes images of Jane Birkin. Designed with short sleeves and a close, hip-length fit, the ribbed knit further elevates the chic print.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 12

36Buttery-Soft Faux Leather Pants

Crafted from buttery-soft faux leather that’s blended with a bit of stretch, these pants won’t just catch admiring glances — they’ll be comfy, too. The high-waisted design features a wide-leg fit, with a zipper and button closure. Dressed up or down, they make a stylish statement.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 5

37A Fitted Mini Dress With Subtle Yet Eye-Catching Accents

Subtle yet eye-catching accents elevate this mini dress: Flared sleeves that extend down to the fingertips, for example, and decorative flap front pockets. The high neckline and long sleeves contrast with the short hemline, spicing up the silhouette even more in a curve-clinging fit.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 10

38A Crewneck T-Shirt That Won’t Lose Its Shape

Already a wardrobe staple thanks to its classic crewneck silhouette, this T-shirt becomes even more desirable when you consider its construction. The fabric is thick and generously blended with stretch for a close fit that won’t lose its shape — it’s a must for any wardrobe.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 14

39A Sporty Open-Front Cardigan

With its wide striped trim, this cardigan is reminiscent of a vintage varsity jacket — an on-point detail that taps the latest sporty trends. Designed with an open front, the soft knit effortlessly layers without creating bulk, and that oversized fit is giving “stolen from the quarterback” in the best way possible.

  • Available sizes: Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 15

40An Oversized Hooded Sweatsuit You’ll Never Want To Take Off

Perfectly oversized, this sweatsuit is crafted from lush-feeling fabric so comfy you’ll never want to take it off. The androgynous style features joggers with a drawstring waist and ribbed cuffs, and a long-sleeved hoodie with a front kanga pocket. You can mix and match either piece, too — consider your off-duty wardrobe expanded.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 18

41Wide-Leg Sweatpants You’ll Practically Live In

The combination of stretchy, smooth fabric and a modern wide-leg fit makes these sweatpants a guaranteed winner; comfy and chic, you’ll want to live in them. The high-waisted design features an adjustable drawstring; try pairing with a cropped tank, and add cashmere cardigan and mules to play up the luxe sensibility.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 7

42A Twist-Front Midi Dress With An Adjustable Neckline

Often what makes a ‘fit look expensive is the confidence it gives you — and this surplice-neck dress features a button that allows you to control just how deep the neckline plunges. Crafted from ultra-sleek fabric with a bit of stretch, the asymmetrical hemline and twisted front draw the eye, subtly highlighting your shape. *Chef’s kiss*

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 9

43Slouchy Jeans From An Iconic Denim Brand

Created by iconic denim brand Levi’s, these jeans win your attention with their storied heritage — and keep it with an on-trend baggy fit. An up-to-date silhouette is key when creating a wardrobe that looks high-end, and this mid-rise pair doesn’t miss, adding cargo-inspired side pockets for workwear-inspired flair.

  • Available sizes: 2 — 28 Plus
  • Available colors: 2

44A Midi Skirt In Vegan-Friendly Faux Suede

In vegan-friendly faux suede, this midi skirt is a way to introduce rich texture into your wardrobe — and pieced-together seaming gives it the illusion of the real thing. The pull-on design flares out just a bit at the hem, a silhouette ideal for pairing with an on-trend kitten heel slingback.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 6

45A Sleeveless Satin Blouse With A Pleated Mock Neckline

With tailored-looking pleats at the mock neckline, this blouse could easily convince anyone that it costs so much more than it does. Crafted from shimmery satin fabric, it features wide tank-style shoulders while an attention-grabbing bow-tie at the back of the neckline delivers even more expensive-looking detail.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 8

46High-Waisted Leggings That Shoppers Can’t Stop Buying

Shoppers are loving these leggings; over 39,000 have given them a five-star rating. Crafted from a thick soft knit, the wide waistband gently hugs the body without feeling overly compressive. Two side pockets and an inner pocket allow you to stash your keys or phone if you want to keep your hands free.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 4X-Large
  • Available colors: 32

47A T-Shirt Dress For Your Capsule Wardrobe

Any capsule wardrobe can benefit from this T-shirt dress; with a boat neckline and fitted three-quarter sleeves, it’s a structured yet minimalist starting point for tons of looks. Thanks to its versatile swing cut, whether you pair the knee-length silhouette with heels or sneakers, this dress eats.

  • Available sizes: Small — Large
  • Available colors: 1

48Sleek Athletic Pants For Styling Chic Travel Outfits

In a springy yet smooth knit these straight-leg athletic pants feel like an upgrade from a more casual jogger, and they’re every bit as comfy — key features when styling chic travel outfits. Designed with an elastic waistband and two side pockets, they’re ready for as much (or as little) action as your day calls for.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 20

49A Lounge Set That’s Giving Off-Duty Influencer

With its wide-leg drawstring pants and fitted long-sleeved top, this matching set is peak off-duty fashion influencer — understated yet totally put-together. Elevate the cozy fabric by layering a richly textured cardigan on top, or play up the casual sensibility by adding a baseball cap and top it with a trench.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 14

50An A-Line Midi Skirt That’s Pure Classic Glamour

Inject Grace Kelly glamour into your wardrobe with this midi skirt; the flaring A-line silhouette calls to mind her classic style. Hitting at the mid-calf, the design blends modern features, like an elasticized waistband, with a classic plaid print in over two dozen colorways to create a piece that looks far pricier than it is.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 28

51A Chunky Cropped Puffer Vest

A cropped length contrasts the boxy fit of this chunky puffer vest; you’ll find the slightly shorter length looks good with practically any style of bottom, from skintight leggings to a wide-leg jean. The high mock neckline and zipper front block the chill, and an adjustable drawstring delivers a customizable fit.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 14

52A Turtleneck Sweater That Brings The Drama

Turtleneck sweaters can absolutely be statement pieces, and this sweater features a chunky foldover neckline that brings the drama. Ribbed sleeves match the texture of the neckline, while the cable knit bodice adds even more lush texture. In a quiet shade like the tan version shown here, the high-end design shines.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 23

53A Versatile Pleated Chiffon Midi Skirt

A piece you can style so many ways, this chiffon skirt elevates every item you pair it with. The airy fabric (lined, so you don’t have to worry about coverage) flows in graceful pleats to a knee-length hem, with a simple elastic waistband. Button-down shirts, silk tanks, stilettos, boots, sneakers — this skirt can play nicely with them all.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 42

54A Femme Chiffon Blouse That Ties At The Neck

Long bloused sleeves and a bow tie at the neck ensure this femme blouse makes a favorable impression — and the drape-y chiffon fabric is low-key sultry. Its easy fit and hip-length hem make it stylish worn tucked or loose — and it’s another piece that can transition from the office to dressier evening plans.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 34

55A Double-Breasted Vest That’s Giving Blazer

With its double-breasted design and gold-toned buttons, this vest is serving blazer vibes; it’s the perfect piece for warmer days when you want a polished layer without the weight of sleeves. While it comes in solid shades, the tweed version shown here renders the silhouette even more sophisticated.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 16