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I'm A Stylist & I Swear By These Things Under $35 That Make People Look So Much Better

These inexpensive tricks can make you look like a million bucks.

by Brittany Natale
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Originally Published: 
I'm A Stylist & I Swear By These Things Under $35 That Make People Look So Much Better
Amazon
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Looking like a million bucks doesn’t have to cost a million bucks. Plenty of expert-recommended products are available on Amazon that can make you look runway-ready without breaking the bank. From utility picks like portable steamers and fabric shavers to timeless clothing pieces — including moto-inspired jackets, on-trend sneakers, and easy-to-style accessories — the items are complete game-changers, and they’re stylist-approved.

1These Easy-To-Use Buttons That Can Make Your Bottoms Sit Just Right

“If your jeans are too tight or too loose, this button under $10 will fix that in an instant,” Teich mentions. Crafted from high-quality zinc alloy, these brilliant buttons come in packs of eight, each with an eye-catching design. All you have to do is pin a button on your waistband to where you’d like it to be, and voila! Better-fitting bottoms in seconds.

2A Silky Tank For An Elevated Feel

To quickly make your ensemble look 10 times more elegant, Draugelis recommends swapping out knit tanks for silky ones. “Silky camis are a luxe swap for a knit tank, but just as layer-able,” she advises. “I especially love this bra-friendly one.”

With nearly 3,000 perfect five-star ratings, Draugelis’ recommendation features a stylish V-neckline, a smooth finish, and a double-layer chest area for better coverage. Wear this pick with jeans, pointed leather boots, and a boxy blazer for an instantly on-trend outfit.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 26

3A Neutral-Hued Blazer That Goes With Everything

Barrett mentions that a blazer in a neutral shade can easily complement your clothing collection. “Colors like navy, black, charcoal, stone, and beige will mix and match easily in your wardrobe,” she shares. For a fashionable yet affordable one, add this solid knit pick to your cart. Both fitted and stretchy, this blazer features a single front button, three-quarter ruched sleeves, and a sleek lapel collar.

  • Available sizes: Small — 5X
  • Available colors: 30

4A Cream-Colored Sweater With A Ribbed Texture

Jillian Miller, a Chicago-based wardrobe stylist, quips that a knit sweater in a versatile, creamy hue is the ultimate fall fashion statement. To quickly put this tip into action, pick up this sleeveless beige tank that features a high neck, ribbed texture, and padded shoulders. Style it with denim jeans and open-toed heels for in-office work days, or pair it with a satin black skirt and knee-high boots for weekend plans.

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

5An All-Natural Spray To Help Reduce Static Cling

Don’t let annoying static cling ruin a great outfit. Instead, pick up this natural static spray that Teich recommends. “If you’ve ever battled with static in the winter, this product is a lifesaver without all the chemicals,” she explains. It’s made from a blend of aloe vera, plant-based soap, and salt, is fragrance-free, and doesn’t leave any residue. Pretty neat.

6A Seamless Bra That Can Be Styled With Blazers & Sheer Tops

Get yourself a bra that can do double duty. This Maidenform pick — suggested by Teich — features convertible straps and a seamless silhouette. Not only is it ideal for layering under tops, but Teich shares that it can also be worn alone to create an edgy look.

“This bra [...] gives the perfect lift [and] shape and actually is cute enough to be worn with high-waisted bottoms and a blazer or under a sheer top,” Teich explains. If you need more inspiration, just look to the stars — Hailey Bieber, EmRata, and Kim K. are all fans of this cheeky trend.

  • Available sizes: Small — 1X-Plus
  • Available colors: 7

7A Crisp White Button-Down To Wear Under Sweaters

If you want to breathe new life into ho-hum sweaters, pick up this button-down poplin shirt that won't break the bank. "My favorite styling trick for boring sweaters is to pop a crisp, white button-down underneath," shares Shana Draugelis, founder at The Mom Edit. Draugelis suggests keeping the collar buttoned so you can easily see it over the sweater's neckline. "The look is pure French-girl," she adds.

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

8A Knee-Length Tea Dress With A Wrapped V-Neckline

From weekend plans to fancy occasions, this flared knit dress gets the job done. Made from a stretchy rayon blend, this pick features short sleeves, a wrapped V-neckline, and a knee-length hem. “It’s perfect to be dressed up or down for lunch with friends, the office, or a night out with heels,” adds Barrett. Even better? It has pockets.

  • Available sizes: Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 40

9A Textured Baseball Cap That Makes Any Outfit Look Instantly Cooler

Pick up this textured baseball cap with a wide brim and an adjustable velcro closure to instantly add some edge to loungewear. “Baseball hats are having a huge moment,” Draugelis notes. She shares that chic, textured hats — such as this one — make even the most casual looks feel more cool and intentional. “[They also] keep more polished outfits from being too fussy,” she adds.

  • Available colors: 20

10An Oversized Vest You Can Easily Wear With Baggy Jeans & Leggings

This isn’t any old puffer vest; this is a cool puffer vest. Priced at under $35, this pick features a full zipper, a standup collar, and two side pockets. “Not only is an oversized vest practical,” explains Draugelis, “but the oversized proportions give outfits an unapologetically nonchalant look.” Wear it over chunky sweaters, leggings, or baggy jeans for an of-the-moment feel.

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

11These Warm, Thick Leggings To Pair With Oversized Sweaters

These thick leggings are perfect for cold weather and feature a high-waisted fit, four-way stretch, and a cozy fleece lining. Draugelis points out that these leggings — unlike others — combine the best of both worlds. They’re thick but also manage to look sheer, which is so convenient if you want to wear these with dresses.

“The fleece itself is a lighter tan, so the tights, when worn, look sheer, even though they’re not,” she explains. This pick can match pretty much anything but looks incredibly chic with oversized sweaters and button-downs.

  • Available sizes: X-Small-Small — X-Large-XX-Large
  • Available colors: 17

12A Pair Of Transparent Sunnies With A Fresh, Modern Feel

An easy way to update your look is by switching out ordinary sunglasses for translucent ones. “They still pair nicely with everything in your closet — black shoes, sneakers, tan boots — but have a fresher, modern feel,” Draugelis says.

For a well-made option that doesn’t skimp on style, check out these highly rated clear sunnies that feature vintage-esque round lenses and a lightweight feel. Imagine how cute these would look paired with a denim midi skirt, a black turtleneck, and knee-high boots.

  • Available colors: 14

13A Two-Toned Bag That Adds A Luxe Feel To Any Outfit

To elevate an outfit in seconds, Draugelis suggests picking up a two-tone bag. “A two-tone bag is understated and chic,” she shares. If you want to add one to your collection, consider this affordable option with an adjustable strap, a smooth zipper, and a waterproof construction. The best part? It can be worn around your waist, across your chest, or slung over your shoulder.

  • Available colors: 12

14A Small Metallic Bag That Adds Edge To Daytime Looks

“Little bags that hold their shape feel more elevated right now,” Draugelis says. She’s especially a fan of metallic silver options, like this one from Amazon. This pick is made from high-quality faux leather and has an adjustable strap, magnetic flap, and zipper closure. “They’re surprisingly good for daytime use, even with white sneakers or sleek boots,” she says

  • Available colors: 23

15A Thin Belt You Can Wear With Pants Or Over Chunky Sweaters & Dresses

A thin patent leather belt can help keep pants up and look great over dresses. Featuring over 1,300 perfect five-star ratings, this one boasts a quick-release buckle and a smooth feel. Draugelis also points out that a skinny belt works perfectly for achieving the “tucked-in sweater” look.

“Tucking in a sweater can sometimes be a chore, so instead, we swear by the skinny belt trick,” explains Draugelis. “Belt the sweater around the waist, and then blouse it to hide the belt, or not.”

  • Available sizes: Suit for waist size below 40” — Suit for waist size below 45”
  • Available colors: 15

16A Pack Of Neutral-Hued Claw Clips With A Chic Matte Finish

These claw clips are perfect for when you don’t have time to do your hair. Featuring over 6,800 five-star ratings, these budget-friendly accessories have a durable spring, an oversized design, and a versatile matte finish. “No stranger to a messy bun, I do love what these chic, neutral-toned claw clips can do for unwashed hair,” says Draugelis. “Instant style.”

  • Available colors: 7

17These Levi’s That Are So Versatile

According to Liz Teich, a New York-based fashion stylist, style creator, on-air style expert, and founder of The New York Stylist, skinny jeans aren’t going anywhere despite what anyone says — and for good reason. For starters, these versatile bottoms can be worn in many different ways.

If you want to snag a pair, consider adding these Levi’s to your cart. Crafted from a stretchy cotton blend, these highly rated jeans feature a mid-rise cut, a zipper fly, and tapered legs. “I'd style these with a slouchy over-the-knee boot for an updated and fresh look,” adds Teich.

  • Available sizes: 24 — 42 (short, regular, long)
  • Available colors: 31

18An Easy-To-Clean Crossbody Bag With A Chic Silhouette

Keep your hands free with this nylon crossbody bag recommended by Teich. Featuring a silhouette similar to expensive designer versions, Teich shares that this pick is made with recycled nylon fabric, making it so easy to clean. It also features a sailboat-style shape, an adjustable strap, and a high-quality zipper. I own a similar one and wear it nearly every day — no more having to lug around bulky handbags that can sometimes make you look disheveled.

  • Available colors: 5

19A Pair Of Stylish Canvas Kicks That Are Easy To Clean

A pair of good sneakers makes all the difference when getting dressed. “Dirty, dingy sneakers are the easiest way to ruin a look,” explains Teich. Keeping this in mind, Teich shares that these martial arts-inspired kicks are the easiest way to improve an outfit since they’re both stylish and easy to keep clean. Made from breathable canvas, these shoes feature a lightweight feel, a lace-up design, and a durable rubber sole. Wear these with leggings, wide-leg jeans, or printed dresses for a quick and easy fashion-forward look.

  • Available sizes: 4 Women/2 Men — 16 Women/14 Men
  • Available colors: 16

20This Rhinestone Purse That Adds Some Sparkle To Any Look

A sparkly purse can instantly add a touch of glamour to any look it’s paired with. “This rhinestone bag has been the topic of conversation at so many parties for me,” says Teich. “I’ve also gotten stopped by strangers asking about it.” Perfect for both evening-wear outfits and daytime looks, this pick features a magnetic buckle and plenty of room to fit your phone, wallet, keys, and more. “It’s a real show stopper for any look this upcoming holiday season,” Teich also points out.

  • Available colors: 5

21This Budget-Friendly Bag That Looks So Similar To Designer Ones

Tahirah Goins-Nall, founder of the Los Angeles-based fashion styling company ClothesPetals, shares that lower-priced alternatives to designer accessories are often cost-effective and easy to style. “[They] allow consumers to keep up with the latest styles without breaking the bank,” she explains.

That being said, if you want a braided, Bottega-Veneta vibe on a budget, consider adding this dumpling bag to your cart ASAP. Made from faux leather, this pick has a removable chain, gold-tone hardware, and a flexible frame.

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

22A Pair Of Shapewear Shorts To Help Streamline Your Silhouette

Goins-Nall suggests incorporating shapewear into your wardrobe to create more polished, streamlined silhouettes. Shapewear also offers extra support, which Goins-Nall points out may be helpful for those who are pregnant, postpartum, or recovering from surgery.

This selection is perfect for wearing under dresses and skirts or alone as-is. Boasting nearly 32,000 five-star ratings, these biker shorts have a high-waisted fit, an anti-slip silicone strip at the top to prevent slipping, and a stretchy feel.

  • Available sizes: Small — 4X-Large
  • Available colors: 5

23A Black Bodysuit To Wear So Many Different Ways

Jen Reed, shopping expert and founder of @TheSisterStudioIG and Life in Lilac, raves about this budget-friendly bodysuit with long sleeves and a round neckline. “Everyone needs one of these bodysuits!!” She gushes. “They’re so sleek, amazing quality, and they come in so many different variations.”

Reed describes that the long-sleeved and tank versions are staples in her own wardrobe. Featuring a buttery-soft feel, this one-piece looks exceptionally stylish paired with silky skirts, faded denim jeans, and wide-leg trousers.

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

24These Stylish Fashion-Forward Sunnies

If you think you have to spend a ton of money to get your hands on a great pair of sunglasses, think again. This Reed-recommended brand makes darling shades at low prices. “This brand looks so luxe for a fraction of the cost,” she explains.

Reed shares that she enjoys wearing these wallet-friendly sunnies that feature a high-quality plastic frame and polarized lenses with all different kinds of outfits. “They have SO many styles to choose from, and I get compliments on every single pair I own,” she shares. “So chic!”

  • Available colors: 6

25A Faux Leather Mini Skirt That Can Be Dressed Up Or Down

Mini skirts are trending right now, so it’s no surprise Miller points out that these bottoms are a must-have. If you want one that deviates away from the usual denim or ruffled versions, pick up this faux leather option. It features a high-waisted fit, a double-slit hem, and a concealed back zipper. Wear it with a long-sleeved black bodysuit for a sultry look, or match it with a chunky white sweater and sneakers for something more relaxed.

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

26A Layered Gold-Plated Necklace That Doesn’t Break The Bank

Necklaces can run into the hundreds if not thousands of dollars — but not this one. This layered necklace is made with 14-karat gold plating and boasts three separate, adjustable chains, each featuring eye-catching details, such as dangly charms. Recommended by Miller, layered necklaces can easily make any outfit look ten times more polished.

  • Available styles: A — Z

27This Black Beret That Quickly Adds A Style Boost To Any Look

Miller also lists a black beret as a great accessory to have on hand. This pick — priced well under $35 — has a cotton lining and an adjustable drawstring tie to help you achieve a perfect fit. I own a similar black beret and receive compliments every time I wear it — they’re an instant style booster.

  • Available colors: 1

28A Square-Neck Bodysuit That Looks Great With Any Bottoms

If you don’t yet own a square-neck bodysuit, you’re missing out. Miller shares that this versatile one-piece can help “unleash your inner fashionista.” This pick features curved shoulders, a high cut, and a thong bottom and can easily be matched with skirts, shorts, sweatpants, trousers, and more. The options are seemingly endless.

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

29These Faux Leather Pants With A Wide-Leg Silhouette

Genuine leather pants often cost a pretty penny, so why not pick up an affordable faux leather pair? These edgy trousers feature wide-leg bottoms, a button and zipper closure, and a soft feel. Miller recommends styling these with a square-neck bodysuit (like the one above) for a head-turning look.

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

30A Pair Of Gold Waterdrop-Shaped Earrings

“A simple waterdrop-shaped gold earring will elevate any outfit in an easy, inexpensive way,” advises Melissa Rivers, host, fashion expert, and New York Times best-selling author. For an affordable pair, consider this highly rated pick made with 14-karat gold-plated brass. They feature a lightweight hollow design, a simple back, and an eye-catching shine. Wear these with a black turtleneck, straight-leg jeans, and leather boots for a perfect, elegant everyday look.

  • Available colors: 15

31An Oversized Sweater To Wear With Structured Skirts & Tapered Dress Pants

An easy-to-style sweater is vital, especially during cold winter months, mentions Rivers. For a budget-friendly one that doesn’t skimp on style, look to this boxy crew-neck pullover. It features an oversized cut, drop shoulders, and batwing sleeves. Rivers suggests pairing sweaters like these with sultry bottoms, like a structured skirt or tapered black pants. “This look is not only comfortable but polished,” she mentions.

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

32A Highly-Rated Bodysuit With A Snap-Button Bottom

Rivers also appreciates a good bodysuit. “It’s a versatile piece that layers well under a jacket or cardigan or can be worn stylishly by itself,” she says. If you want to introduce one into your wardrobe, you can’t go wrong with this reasonably-priced option made from a stretchy polyester blend. With over 25,000 five-star ratings, this double-lined one-piece has a racerback design, high neckline, and a snap-button bottom, making putting this on and taking it off so much easier.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 24

33A Silk Scarf To Tie Around Your Neck Or In Your Hair

Make your outfits look so much more put-together with a silk scarf. “I often get asked how to coordinate an outfit, and one of the best ways to do that is to link it together using the color of accessories,” Michelle Barrett, stylist and founder of Capsule Closet Stylist, says. “A silk neck scarf is timeless, sophisticated, and a classic addition to any outfit.”

For a stylish yet affordable one, look to this Amazon option offered in dozens of prints and shades. Boasting a satiny feel, this versatile accessory can be worn around your neck, tied around your handbag handle, or styled in your hair.

  • Available colors: 44

34A Biker Jacket That Is A Timeless Wardrobe Staple

Black biker jackets are timeless for a reason — they go with practically anything and add an edge to every look. For a reasonably-priced one, consider this faux leather option priced well under $35. It features a slightly cropped cut with three front zipper pockets, a side buckle detail, and zippered cuffs. “Dress it down with jeans or up with a floral maxi [dress] for that 90’s retro look,” suggests Barrett.

  • Available sizes: Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 9

35This Breton-Striped Sweater That Can Be Dressed Up Or Down

A sweet Breton-striped sweater adds an element of je nais se quois to any outfit. Crafted from a lightweight rayon blend, this top features a crew neckline, buttoned cuffs, and a classic fit. “It is well known that the French are known for their style, and the Breton stripe is no exception,” quips Barrett. “[It’s] a versatile piece that you can dress up under a trouser suit or down with jeans.”

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

36This Shapewear Bodysuit For A Sleek Look

Supportive and smoothing, shapewear can make any outfit look 10 times more sleek. “If you want to know how all of those celebrities look amazing in sculpted dresses, it is with shapewear,” says Barrett. If you don’t yet have a shapewear bodysuit, Barrett recommends scooping up something like this Maidenform option that’s oh-so-stretchy. Made with cooling fabric, it has wide shoulder straps and an open-bottom design to make it easier to use the bathroom.

  • Available sizes: S — 3XL
  • Available colors: 2

37Fashion Tape That Keeps You Secure

Kriena Nederveen, a personal shopper, stylist, and founder of Clé D'or, muses that fashion tape is a must-have. “There is just no substitute for fashion tape when wearing backless and deep-plunge looks,” she says. She adds that “well-placed” fashion tape can make you feel more confident and comfortable all at the same time. This choice comes with adhesive body tape, breast petals, and nipple stickers that are sweat-resistant, tear-resistant, and lightweight.

  • Available sizes: 2” — 3”
  • Available colors: 4

38A Portable Steamer To Help Rid Wrinkles In Clothing

A portable steamer can help make wrinkle-free clothing a thing of the past. “Showing up in a wrinkled look is not the vibe,” Nederveen states. To make sure every piece of clothing is in tip-top shape, consider picking up this handy steamer that’s small enough to pack in carry-ons and suitcases. It boasts a 9-foot power cord, can continuously steam for up to 15 minutes, and works on everything from cotton to silk.

39A Fabric Shaver To Make Sweater Pilling A Thing Of The Past

Sweaters and tops can develop pills over time — those pesky little balls of thread that make clothing look old and worn out. To help fix this issue, consider adding this reasonably-priced fabric shaver to your cart. “Quickly pass it over your garment and restore it to the way it looked when you purchased it,” Nederveen shares. “This is something I require all of my clients to have."

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

40This Highly Rated Sneaker Cleaning Kit That’s A Cult-Favorite

Teich confesses that nothing looks sloppier than a great outfit paired with dirty sneakers. To ensure all your kicks stay spotless, there’s this Jason Markk shoe cleaner kit that comes with a cleaning solution and a stiff-bristle brush. “This non-toxic cleaner kit is a cult favorite of sneakerheads and stylists like me and gets the job done with minimal effort,” Teich shares.

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