35 Cheap Tricks Stylists Say Make Your Outfits Look Chicer & More Expensive

According to Kim Hancher, a style coach based in San Francisco, "materials with texture read as expensive, even if they weren't." This lace camisole by The Drop immediately came to mind. It reads as silk but it's really a machine-washable polyester to save you trips to the dry cleaners. Coincidentally, one shopper noticed that it "looks like it’s from Bergdorf [Goodman] and costs $350." Take Hancher’s advice even further and mix textures throughout. One possibility? Pair this camisole with leather leggings or velvet trousers and an oversized wool blazer.

• Available sizes: XX-Small — 5X
• Available colors: 12

Speaking of luxe-looking textures, Hancher had two more recommendations: "Look for tweeds and [bouclé] styles when budget shopping or mix these materials in when you can. They will always look like they cost more than they do." Agreed — and WDIRARA’s tweed mini skirt proves that statement to be true. Not only does it look straight out of Gossip Girl, but it's also reliably chic whether you’re glammed up in strappy heels or thigh-high boots. "I am in love with the quality. It is thick and I don't think anyone would guess that I got it from Amazon," a shopper swore.

• Available sizes: X-Small — 4X
• Available colors: 21

Bouclé fabric isn’t just for lust-worthy furniture that you see on Instagram, like fashion model Elsa Hosk's Claude Home couch. Case in point: this Daily Ritual turtleneck sweater is the wearable version you’ll equally be obsessed with for lounging around — and it won't break the bank either. The sumptuous knit features a mock neck, drop-shoulder sleeves, and a slouchy fit. “It's so soft and comfortable to wear! I think I'll just live in it. If I could give them 10 Stars I would,” one fan wrote.

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

Another easy tip to achieve a stylish ensemble? Combine contrasting pieces, suggested Hancher: “Create each outfit with a mix of sweet and spicy items…If you have a more conservative dress, then throw on some booties and a moto jacket. Make sure you have a balance of each." If you don’t own one already, consider adding this faux leather moto jacket to your Amazon cart — you won't regret it. "Jacket looks just like the photos, not cheap material. A total fashion statement," one reviewer confirmed. It has a 100% polyester lining and four exterior pockets to stash your keys and cell phone, along with silver-tone hardware that adds some edge.

• Available sizes: Small — 3X
• Available colors: 5

Even though this PRETTYGARDEN shirt dress is new item for the cult-favorite brand and doesn’t have pages of raving shopper reviews, it's too pretty not to include. The airy polyester fabric has a textured Swiss dot finish with an A-line skirt that graces the body beautifully. Add to that puff sleeves, a smocked waist, and a crisp collar for a fresh take on the shirt dress. My favorite detail? The dainty floral buttons. Now, just imagine this flowy number with the above moto jacket on top.

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

Constructed from a gauzy polyester that mimics lightweight chiffon, this floral dress is a charming choice for holiday get-togethers, weekend brunches, park dates, and dinners by the sea. “The fabric doesn't wrinkle and I was outside and didn't sweat. It was adorable and I wore it on Easter and got lots of compliments," one shopper wrote. It's easy to love the Kate Middleton-worthy florals of this V-neck button-down style, all capped off with a waist-hugging tie belt — which make a tough leather jacket that more unexpected.

• Available sizes: 1X — 4X
• Available colors: 3

Get the western look without looking like a cowboy outright in these pointed-toe booties. What sets this pair apart from the rest, you might wonder? The striking cutout V at the ankle — just make sure to wear a sock to prevent friction against the skin. Not only that, they're made from vegan leather with a comfortable 2.5-inch stacked heel that's highly walkable. “I had them [on] for 9 hours the first time wearing them, no blisters or rubbing!" one fan gushed. Besides sizzling snakeskin options, like this black-and-white pair, there's also sleek solids in suedes and leathers.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 16

Wondering how to style a bodycon dress without looking like you're hitting the club? Hancher had the answer. “A shorter [edgier] dress could be paired with ballet flats and pearls…This creates an unexpected look that is always more interesting and stylish." Spot how this long-sleeved crewneck dress has drawstring sides that make the skirt shorter or longer — and it'll shock you how good it looks on your frame. "10/10! This dress is thick, fits true to size, and can be adjusted for length," one shopper confirmed. “It hugs in all the right places…So comfortable!” The best part? This dress can truly be worn with pretty much any shoe or accessory already in your closet.

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

If your closet is missing a pair of truly sophisticated ballet flats, look no further than these cuties. Assembled with faux suede uppers and anti-skid rubber outsoles, they're a comfier substitute to heels without sacrificing high style. Is the bow too frilly for you? There are more minimalist renditions, as well as a couple with petite bows "I'd sleep in these if I could! These are the perfect flats. I'm shocked at how comfortable they are," one fan gushed.

• Available sizes: 4.5 — 10
• Available colors: 45

Sure, this spliced gold chain and pearl necklace isn't real gold, but when it’s layered you can barely tell the difference. The 18-karat gold-plated chain is safe for sensitive skin and leaves a high-shine finish in its wake. "I’m pretty allergic to nickel, so jewelry (especially necklaces) tend to rash me out. This one however doesn’t! It hasn’t tarnished at all yet and it feels very high quality," one shopper revealed. It's held together by a toggle clasp that even looks chic as a pendant, and it all hangs about 18 inches long.

If you don't have the dough to splurge on designer duds, Erica Ball, a personal stylist and fashion blogger who works out of Los Angeles, offered one simple solution to look instant polished, and that is to "steam or iron your clothing." New York City stylist Lana Blanc echoed the advice: “If ironing isn't for you (not my jam either) buy yourself a steamer and add an additional 2 minutes to your morning routine [...] I promise it will go a very long way!” Featuring an eight-foot-long cord, along with a detachable bristle and lint brush, this small dual-voltage travel garment steamer is an investment that’ll pay off for years. It tuck away nicely in your suitcase and weighs just over one pound, but it can also be used to eliminate up to 99.9% of germs, bacteria, bedbugs and dust mites.

Andie Sobrato, a personal stylist based in Los Altos, California, also chimed in on the importance of wrinkle-free outfits: "Wrinkle spray can make you look more polished in an instant! Even if you didn’t splurge on your white button-down blouse, you can make it look crisp and expensive by simply de-wrinkling it." Here's another tool worth adding to your kit: Downy’s Wrinkle Releaser fabric spray. Dubbed “an icon in a bottle," this spray has racked up a cult following for its wrinkle release capabilities, and spritzes static away in a flash. It can serve as a makeshift dry cleaner, too: "This year I have been attending medical school interviews all over the country. I have ONE suit that I do not have the money to continuously dry clean between interviews. I bought these to keep with me when traveling so my suit remains pressed and fresh," one customer revealed.

An additional piece of wardrobe advice? "Take care of your clothes so they will last longer and look better. If an item needs dry cleaning, get it dry cleaned, put items that you can wash in a mesh bag, and air dry them on a clothing rack," urged Ball. Since weekly drips to the dry cleaner can eat away at your monthly budget and hand-washing takes a back seat in busy lifestyles, Woolite’s at-home dry cleaning kits are a total game-changer that gets rid of stains, wrinkles, and mysterious odors in no time. Just dab soiled areas with the cloth, then slip it all into the dryer.

“To look more expensive and put together, always make sure your shoes look pristine,” Laurice Wardini, stylist and co-founder of ClothedUp, advised. My recommendation for running errands and casual days out? These Feversole sneakers. This is because the lace-up tennis shoes are inexpensive despite their high-fashion appearance and the quilted vegan leather uppers are super-easy to clean. As Wardini notes, “No matter what you're wearing, a dirty and worn-down pair of sneakers will take away from your outfit.”

• Available sizes: 6 — 9.5
• Available colors: 32

Sneakers can be stylish (it's the age of streetwear, after all) but they're hard to pull off for fancier affairs if you're aiming to impress. "Honestly, if you want to make your outfit look more expensive, I would avoid sneakers altogether,” agreed Wardini. "If I want to wear a comfortable pair of shoes, I gravitate to a comfortable pair of booties without heels (or with a small heel) instead." MaxMuxun’s flat ankle boots fit the bill here: Not only can you rock them all year round, but the ultra-flat bootie can be slipped on and off in seconds with a cushioned insole your feet will swear by. "I have foot issues and need to wear zero drop, minimalist shoes with a wide toe box, and it is so hard to find affordable boots with those characteristics. It is even harder to find them in cute styles. This hit the mark," one shopper confirmed.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 7

Your love of dark-colored clothing is no match for a furry friend at home. The answer? Stock up on lint rollers, suggested Wardini. "Keep a good lint roller in an easily accessible spot before you head out the front door, especially if you have pets that shed,” they wrote. But not just any lint roller: “Wide lint rollers are the best and only take a few seconds." With extra real estate and plenty of adhesion, Scotch-Brite’s sticky surface roller is your new best friend for pet hair removal as well as larger debris like leaves, sand, crumbs, and salt.

When it came to jewelry, Wardini preferred warmer metals to instantly elevate a look: "Personally, I think gold jewelry makes outfits seem more expensive, especially [18-karat] gold-plated jewelry because it's shinier," the fashion expert observed. These gold rings delivers a bit of subtle glimmer that'll last longer than 14-karat finds and includes an assortment of dome, chunky, and retro-inspired designs in multiple sizes. You get a lot of bang for your buck at $16, and can test-drive the stacked ring phenomenon seen on bloggers and influencers. "Since the trend right now is to wear lots of rings, this is a perfect option for those on a budget. The rings are easily adjustable, you get plenty of options, and it’s really affordable...they’re good quality considering the price," one shopper commented.

• Available sizes: 7 — 9
• Available colors: 2

Want more 18-karat gold in your jewelry box? Introducing Aobei’s satellite chain choker: Boasting a 4.6-star average and 11,000 perfect ratings, this 16-inch necklace (with a 2-inch extender) has a fusion of dipped beads and chains fastened together with a lobster clasp. It skews a little more minimalist compared to many chain necklaces on the market right now due to its dainty nature, but you can also find thicker versions worth snagging as well. “So cute and dainty! [Surprisingly] very good quality for the price too. I wear it in the shower , all day every day and never take it off. Great for layering as well when dressing it up," one fan reported.

• Available colors: 13

Looking like a million dollars didn’t stop at your clothes, Wardini added. "Makeup and hair are also extremely important for making your outfit seem expensive as a whole," the stylist wrote. You don't have drop everything to head to the salon or fry your strands with hot tools, either: "I'm also a superfan of lazy hairstyles...My favorite method is to plan in advance and sleep in curlers or braids. This also helps avoid using damaging heat on my hair, so it's a win-win." While old-fashioned curlers are tried and true, here's one hack the Internet is currently obsessed with: STRAPLETS hair curling headband. After shower time, wrap your slightly damp hair around this soft cotton headband and sleep in it overnight. Wake up to bouncy curls “like a soap opera star,” as one reviewer raved.

• Available colors: 5

The most effortless updo of them all? The claw clip! Beloved in the '90s and '00s, this accessory is equally popular now among Tik Tokers today. Have thick, curly, or long hair? This four-pack will hold your tresses up without an ounce of pain since they're highly durable yet ultralight. "Working from home, these are great for keeping my hair out of my face during meetings and whatnot. My hair is almost to my butt, and these hold it all perfectly," one shopper praised.

• Available sizes: One size
• Available colors: 4

Stephanie Gisondi-Little, a Los Angeles personal stylist, pointed out that “cleanliness is king when working to look chic and expensive,” especially when it came to one area in particular. “Our collective white sneaker obsession means keeping them clean as can be," the stylist pointed out. “I use Magic Eraser sheets to gently clean leather sneakers all around, especially the bumpers," Gisondi-Little revealed. The disposable sheets will remove dirt and minimize scuff marks just like they do on your bathroom tiles, even in those hard-to-reach places like around the laces.

Narrow belts are the comeback accessory of the season. "Skinny belts instantly elevate a look, whether in belt loops or over a dress, sweater, or blazer," wrote Gisondi-Little. Experiment for yourself: Cinch your tunics and jazz up cut-off shorts (or mini skirts) courtesy of SANSTHS's thin leather belts. The leather belts come in classic neutrals and several styles, although the style expert favored one in particular. "Gold hardware has a richer vibe, and I especially love the classics of plain black, leopard or other animal print especially." The belts will hold up, too, according to reviews. “No cracking or tearing yet and I've had them for a while now,” one customer confirmed.

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

Gisondi-Little's top earring recommendation? "A good pair of costume diamond studs in your favorite metal and cut. White gold and either a princess cut or brilliant round are the most sparkly and classic shapes." Behold: these Amazon Essentials stud earrings. Available in seven sizes and five different metals (including rose gold, gold, and white gold) plated over sterling silver, these dazzling cubic zirconia studs shine bright and look shockingly real. Can you believe they cost only $12, though? Talk about a girl's best friend!

• Available sizes: 4.5 millimeters — 8.5 millimeters
• Available colors: 5

Diamonds aren't the only must-have stud earrings. Curious what comes second? "Gold ball studs," declared Gisondi-Little. "These never go out of style and always look chic and polished!" Sold in sizes from 3 to 10 millimeters, these gold stud earrings by CUTEFEEL were made with 18-karat gold-plated sterling silver and have multiple uses. They’re hypoallergenic so, in addition to the classic earring, they’ll even add a little something extra to second piercings in your cartilage or helix. "They put the finishing touch on my outfit when I don't want my earrings to overshadow other jewelry, or when I don't want my earrings to be distracting when I'm speaking or making a video," one shopper revealed.

• Available sizes: 3 — 10 millimeters

Gisondi-Little dubbed a silk patterned scarf like this ANDANTINO version the "most wearable scarf style around," and two other fashion experts consulted also considerd it a must-have. "It adds personality, a pop of color, and texture to an otherwise simple outfit. Consider contrasting colors to your outfit,” Gisondi-Little pointed out, adding, “You can even tie the scarf onto your purse as well.” Not to mention, it looks fabulous with basics and sends any classic outfit into French-girl territory. This one is crafted from top-tier mulberry silk — for just $16 — in a myriad of bold graphic patterns that speak to high-end couture, but it costs less than your last Seamless order.

• Available sizes: One size
• Available colors: 38

Another timeless staple? “Pointed toe ballet flat shoes,” Gisondi-Little shared. “This style speaks of elevated comfort, and works with any jeans, skirt or dress you might have on hand. The sharper the point the better, in my book. Both solids or cap toe a la Chanel work!” On that note, say bonjour to these brand-new DREAM PAIRS flats, which have a polyurethane-covered latex insole and a slip-resistant bottom for commuters and brunch-goers alike. The brand already has a reputation for making some of the most-beloved shoes on Amazon, and shoppers suggested taking half a size smaller for the best fit in their newest style.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 4

Ivy Calvert — stylist and founder of Calvert & Co. — didn’t hold back when it came to the importance of sweater maintenance. "Get rid of the unsightly pills on your knitwear to keep them looking brand new," the fashion expert urged. Conair’s best-selling fabric shaver comes to the rescue: This battery-powered gadget removes broken and matted fibers on wools, cashmere, and knits — and catches them all in a lint trap for easy disposal. “I have found a new hobby. I’m depilling everything. Sweatshirts, leggings, blankets, socks, anything...It does the job quickly and leaves everything looking fresh," one shopper gushed. "I’m going to buy one of these for everyone in my life,” they swore. “Everyone needs to own this.” Spend a little more to get the rechargeable version.

• Available colors: 6

If buying new clothes just isn't in the cards, maintain the ones you have. Calvert underscored the importance of maintenance once again: “Keep your whites bright! There's nothing less chic than a dingy white shirt." If you want to skip the bleach, OxiClean’s laundry whitener should be included in your next Amazon Prime order. The 24 individual power packs come pre-measured so you can pop one right into the washing machine and take your whites from dirty to dazzling. Even better? This stuff has 40% more whitening power per load than chlorine bleach. With more than 25,000 ratings, shoppers gave it 4.7 stars.

The importance of fit couldn’t be stressed enough, but little tweaks go a long way if your budget doesn’t leave room for a tailor. "Keep necklines and straps in place to look polished and put together," advised Calvert. Whether you’re looking to secure a plunging neckline or cover a bra, Fearless Tape Clothing Tape will save the day. It’s pre-cut and a single pack is small enough to keep in your purse, glove department, or dresser drawer. The 50 double-sided adhesive strips won't irritate your skin and won't ruin the fibers of the fabric on even the most special of occasions. “Used them for my wedding dress,” one shopper wrote. “Also helped two of my bridesmaids who decided not to alter their dresses. Saved everyones life that day.”

If your shoes don't compliment your outfit, it brings down the whole vibe — so much so, that Sobrato called out the significance of upping your footwear game. "Shoes can make or break an outfit and oftentimes, clients fail to see the importance of this," the stylist explained. "When you have crisp, nice-looking shoes, you instantly look more chic. Rather than throwing on athletic sneakers for every casual occasion, find a comfortable pair of slingbacks or flats." Luckily, I found these $21 slingback flats with contrasting trim and double buckles that add classic elegance while a latex insole cushions your feet through long walks or hours of standing. Like the cap-toe flats above, they’re a newly-released hit from a longtime Amazon shopper favorite.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 3

Celebrity style is easier than you might think. According to Sobrato, "A great pair of sunglasses brings mystery, glamor and sophistication." That's not a call to drop hundreds on designer shades — especially when these FEISEDY cat-eye sunglasses exist. They're not polarized so it’s easy to see your screen but still provide the necessary UV400 protection your eyes need. Along with the oversized square shape, the temples have a pearl inlay that add to the beauty of this style. “LOVE!!!!...So similar to a Gucci pair that I’ve been eyeing up,” one shopper remarked.

• Available sizes: One size
• Available colors: 6

For a crisper alternative to Old Hollywood shades, these cult-favorite SOJOS sunglasses make a fresh alternative in translucent acrylic. They have similar UV400 protection in their lenses, with metal arms and sturdy hinges that are well-made for the money. "The packaging was pristine,” one shopper raved. “It comes with a soft carrying case and cleaning towel. The sides are metal and sturdy. The frames are a solid plastic, not flimsy at all. The hinges also do not stick...Truly like designer frames for a low price.” With more than 13,000 ratings, Amazon shoppers resoundingly agreed. If you love the shape but prefer something more traditional, they offer 12 total standout hues to choose from.

• Available sizes: 1
• Available colors: 12

Heels aren't the only way to dress up sweatpants — just add a chic coat and you're good to go. "A camel overcoat or leather moto jacket can instantly take a bland outfit into something more dimensional and chic," Sobrato advised, writing that "even throwing these over your athleisure can make you look more expensive." One of the most affordable camel coats on the market is this one by Amazon Essentials. With a boxier fit, it can handle heavier sweaters or sweatshirts without bunching up in the arms or body. One shopper raved that "this jacket is like a unicorn," while another wrote it was "sooo soft and fits as if it were made exclusively for me!"

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

How Kate Middleton is this pea coat? The double-breasted topper has a slightly A-line shape with a tailored bodice and demure Peter Pan collar that’s the picture of proper. It's made from 100% polyester, not wool, but you won't be cold in this thing. "It keeps me warm, but is not extremely heavy," one shopper confirmed, noting it wasn’t restrictive despite the jacket’s buttoned-up appearance. "It also has some stretch to it so the fit is forgiving if you need to move around."

• Available sizes: 1X — 4X
• Available colors: 5

With fleeting handbag trends every season, where should you invest your money first? "I would recommend everyone have one simple, chic purse that can act as the go-to for nights out,” Sobrato suggested. “Your purse should LOOK expensive even if it is not. Stay away from trends and stick to the classics," the stylist added. Nothing is more classic than a black envelope clutch, and this one is day-to-night versatile in faux suede with enough room to hold a small wallet, phone, makeup essentials, and your house keys. There's a detachable gold chain strap to wear on your shoulder or as a crossbody — the subtle metallic is low-profile when you’re running errands but adds just enough shine to look appropriate for a night out. It’s pretty much the only clutch you’ll ever need.

• Available sizes: One size
• Available colors: 2

Tucking your shirt in looks ultra-polished until it inches up on you, especially in a public setting. "There’s nothing quite like a crisp [button-down] but the constant need to tuck it in and adjust yourself could be daunting...Enter the button-down bodysuit!" Blanc wrote — and even Meghan Markle is a noted fan of this fashion fix. Kate Kasin's bodysuit blouse will be a savior for interviews, family dinners, and the like. A billowy button-down top is combined with breathable cotton bottoms (complete with convenient snap crotch buttons) that's breathable and stretchy. "Pair it with everything from jeans to dress pants to skirts for an uber chic and comfortable look," Blanc suggested.

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

Want a stylish bodysuit with a little more heat to take out on the town? WDIRARA makes this long-sleeved wrap version with a plunging neckline that’s just right for night. If it's a little too low for your tastes, though, just slip a crop top or a lace bralette underneath. “It totally delivered,” one fan gushed. “Light weight, not sheer at all...I love the look, the easy feel, and it just looked stunning on.” With so much praise, you might want to pick up this bodysuit in more than one style: Choose from a rainbow of 45 solids and prints that will ensure no two look exactly alike.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 45