HOW TO AVOID LOOKING CHEAP (AND APPEAR MORE EXPENSIVE)
SURE, we could all use an unlimited clothing budget but if you’re like most of us, you don’t have that luxury. And even so, many people with loads of money still don’t have the right eye to create style that screams expensive. There is a huge difference between giving off iconic luxury versus simply wearing designer pieces head to toe. Keep in mind, just because you’re not shopping at Chanel doesn’t mean you can’t look expensive.
As a personal stylist who inspects garments and styles high-profile clients for a living, here are five tips to make your wardrobe appear luxurious and polished.
BE MINDFUL OF MATERIAL
Certain materials will stand the test of time while others fall apart. Whenever possible, invest in pieces with real fabrics over synthetic ones. Think leather, wool, silk and 100% cotton and avoid cheaply made polyesters and rayon. Not only will these look more luxurious, but they will literally feel better on your body. Try a juxtaposition of tough and soft materials like linen and leather to create an elevated look. And if you can’t splurge for real leather, there are some amazing vegan options now that still appear buttery and soft.
DON’T SKIMP ON STRUCTURE AND FIT
There is nothing worse than wearing something that doesn’t fit properly. Not only is it likely unflattering but shows you didn’t even put in effort to get the sizing correct. This immediately looks cheap. Even your t-shirts should have structure to them, and the knit is woven tightly to allow for it to lay nicely against the body. The same goes for tailored pieces. Make sure blazers and jackets have shape to them and aren’t too slouchy. Opt for denim with less than 2% stretch as this will allow for ‘less give” and hold shape better. And don’t forget to alter any pieces that are not hitting you in the right place, especially pants. This is a step that’s often overlooked and can make a world of a difference.
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS
Don’t lose sight of the important details. Dead giveaways of poorly crafted garments can often be found in the stitching, buttons, and zippers. Pass on pieces where the stitching looks uneven or the color is off and inspect jackets to see if they have cheap plastic zippers or buttons. Make sure to find ones that are sturdy in metal, as those will often be rust proof and hold up much longer. If buttons are not of good quality, bring it to a tailor and have them swapped out for any easy upgrade. Embellishments like sequins and beading should always be sewn on well so they don’t end up falling off and looking totally cheap.
ELEVATE WITH ACCESSORIES
Items like jewelry and handbags can last a lifetime and add a luxury element to an otherwise simple top and jeans. A well-constructed hat, sunglasses or classic designer pump are other ‘expensive’ touches to balance out more affordable pieces in a look. Men should opt for things like a leather belt and a nice watch. These often offer a lower cost-per-wear because you can add them into your outfit rotation more frequently than clothing. Splurge on a few that you love and wear them on the regular.
MAINTAIN YOUR WARDROBE
Once you buy something, it’s important to care for it properly. Washing items only when necessary and taking high-quality ones to the dry cleaner will preserve color, shape, and fabric. Investing in a good steamer is key to make sure there are no wrinkles and creases in your clothing. Leather goods like shoes can be re-soled and handbags treated as needed to preserve their quality over time. Treat your wardrobe like the investment that it is.
If something is super trendy and meant to just last for a season, sure, don’t splurge on it. But cheaply made fashion isn’t going to do you any favors in the long run. Being mindful of how a garment is constructed will help you develop more discerning taste over time. And as you appear more expensive and put together, you might just receive added benefits like increased perceptions of social status and success. And who doesn’t want that?
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Amanda Vargus spent her career in the music industry before pivoting into fashion. She excelled in the industry as a Luxury Manager with The RealReal, a high-end resale website, where she specialized in closet editing and was in charge of merchandise acquisition in the northeast. Now Amanda runs her own independent personal styling company, Wave +Woven, produced Boston’s First Annual Runway Ball, and consults with entrepreneurs, executives and elite professionals to create more exciting and functional wardrobes. Helping clients find their original and unique style through fashion is her passion.
